Question

2. ANALYSIS OF THE EXISTING PRODUCTS RELEVANT TO THE IDENTIFIED PROBLEM. Identify the two main materials to be used to construct a bridge. 2.1. (2) 2.2. Discuss fitness for purpose (Suitability of the material/s). (2) 2.3. Explain the safety of the bridge for the users. (2) 2.4. Investigate the cost of materials needed to build a bridge. You are expected to give realistic examples of some building materials. You may need to ask other people or visit hardware. You can write the price per unit of the materials. (4) 2.5. Write down the costs of labor for both skilled and unskilled labor per hour. Calculate the total per month. (4)​

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

2.1. The two main materials commonly used to construct a bridge are steel and concrete. Steel is used for constructing the main support structure of the bridge, while concrete is used for the decking and other components.

2.2. Both steel and concrete are considered suitable materials for bridge construction. Steel is known for its strength and durability, while concrete offers good compression strength and can resist harsh environmental conditions. Steel is also flexible and can be used to construct complex shapes and designs, while concrete can be molded into various shapes and sizes. Both materials are widely available and can be sourced easily.

2.3. The safety of a bridge largely depends on the quality of construction and the maintenance of the structure. If constructed properly with high-quality materials, a steel or concrete bridge can be very safe for users. Steel is known for its ability to resist fatigue and can withstand heavy loads, while concrete is fire-resistant and can provide good impact resistance. Proper maintenance, regular inspections, and repairs can help ensure the safety of the bridge over time.

2.4. The cost of materials needed to build a bridge can vary depending on several factors, such as the length of the bridge, the design, and the location. For example, the cost of steel can range from $500 to $1,500 per ton, while the cost of concrete can range from $100 to $150 per cubic yard. Other building materials such as asphalt and timber can also be used for bridge construction, with prices ranging from $100 to $500 per ton or per cubic meter, respectively.

2.5. The cost of labor for bridge construction can also vary depending on the level of skill required and the location. Skilled labor such as engineers and welders can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour, while unskilled labor such as laborers and construction workers can cost from $10 to $30 per hour. Assuming a 40-hour workweek, the total labor cost for skilled labor can range from $8,000 to $32,000 per month, while the total labor cost for unskilled labor can range from $1,600 to $4,800 per month.