Top 10 Questions for Steel Hanger Interview

1. What are the different types of steel hangers, and how do you choose the right one for a particular application?

There are three main types of steel hangers: top-mount, side-mount, and band hangers. Top-mount hangers are used to support loads from above, while side-mount hangers are used to support loads from the side. Band hangers are used to support pipes and conduits from ceilings and walls.

• To choose the right hanger for a particular application, you need to consider the following factors:
• The weight of the load
• The location of the load
• The type of material being supported
• The environment in which the hanger will be used

2. What are the different materials used to make steel hangers, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Carbon Steel

• Advantages:
• Strong and durable
• Inexpensive
• Disadvantages:
• Susceptible to corrosion

Stainless Steel

• Advantages:
• Resistant to corrosion
• Strong and durable
• Disadvantages:
• More expensive than carbon steel

Aluminum

• Advantages:
• Lightweight
• Resistant to corrosion
• Disadvantages:
• Not as strong as steel
• More expensive than steel

3. What are the different finishes available for steel hangers, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Zinc-Plated

• Advantages:
• Protects against corrosion
• Inexpensive
• Disadvantages:
• Not as durable as other finishes

Hot-Dip Galvanized

• Advantages:
• Provides excellent corrosion protection
• Durable and long-lasting
• Disadvantages:
• More expensive than zinc-plating

Powder-Coated

• Advantages:
• Available in a wide range of colors
• Durable and resistant to chipping and scratching
• Disadvantages:
• Can be more expensive than other finishes

4. What are the different sizes of steel hangers available, and how do you determine the correct size for a particular application?

Steel hangers are available in a wide range of sizes, from small hangers that can support a few pounds to large hangers that can support thousands of pounds. To determine the correct size hanger for a particular application, you need to consider the following factors:

• The weight of the load
• The type of hanger being used
• The material being supported
• The environment in which the hanger will be used

5. What are the different codes and standards that apply to the installation of steel hangers, and how do you ensure compliance?

There are a number of codes and standards that apply to the installation of steel hangers, including the International Building Code (IBC), the National Electrical Code (NEC), and the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). To ensure compliance with these codes and standards, you should always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and consult with a qualified engineer or architect.

6. What are the different tools and equipment required to install steel hangers, and how do you use them safely?

• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Hammer
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

To use these tools and equipment safely, you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

7. What are the different methods for installing steel hangers, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Screw-in

• Advantages:
• Quick and easy to install
• Inexpensive
• Disadvantages:
• Not as strong as other methods
• Can damage the substrate if not installed properly

Bolt-on

• Advantages:
• Strong and secure
• Can be used to support heavy loads
• Disadvantages:
• More time-consuming to install
• Requires more tools and equipment

Welding

• Advantages:
• Provides the strongest and most secure connection
• Can be used to support very heavy loads
• Disadvantages:
• Requires specialized tools and equipment
• Can be dangerous if not performed properly

8. What are the different factors that can affect the performance of steel hangers, and how do you mitigate these factors?

Corrosion

• Mitigate:
• Use corrosion-resistant materials
• Apply protective coatings
• Install hangers in a dry environment

Overloading

• Mitigate:
• Choose the right size hanger for the load
• Install hangers at the proper spacing
• Avoid overloading hangers

Improper Installation

• Mitigate:
• Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions
• Use the proper tools and equipment
• Hire a qualified contractor to install hangers

9. What are the different types of inspections that should be performed on steel hangers, and how often should they be performed?

Visual Inspection

• Inspect hangers for:
• Corrosion
• Damage
• Loose connections
• Frequency:
• Monthly

Load Testing

• Test hangers to ensure they can support the intended load
• Frequency:
• Annually

10. What are the different maintenance tasks that should be performed on steel hangers, and how often should they be performed?

• Inspect hangers for corrosion, damage, and loose connections
• Frequency:
• Monthly
• Tighten loose connections
• Frequency:
• As needed
• Lubricate moving parts
• Frequency:
• As needed

A Steel Hanger is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing steel structures in various industrial and construction settings. Their duties may include:

1. Steel Erection

Assemble and erect steel structures such as bridges, buildings, and towers.

• Follow blueprints, shop drawings, and specifications to ensure accurate and safe installation
• Use specialized tools and equipment to hoist, position, and secure steel members

2. Welding and Fabrication

Perform welding tasks to join steel components and fabricate custom parts.

• Use shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), or flux-cored arc welding (FCAW)
• Prepare and clean metal surfaces, and inspect welds for quality and compliance

3. Rigging and Lifting

Operate cranes and hoists to lift and move heavy steel components.

• Plan and execute lifting operations, considering weight capacities and safety protocols
• Inspect and maintain rigging equipment, such as slings, shackles, and hooks

4. Maintenance and Repair

Inspect and maintain existing steel structures for damage or wear.

• Identify and repair structural defects, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose bolts
• Perform non-destructive testing (NDT) to evaluate the condition of steel structures

To ace the interview for a Steel Hanger position, consider the following tips:

1. Research the Company and Industry

Demonstrate your knowledge about the company, its projects, and the broader steel industry.

• Visit the company’s website and review their recent projects
• Read articles and industry publications to gain insights into current trends and best practices

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your skills in steel erection, welding, rigging, and maintenance.

• Quantify your experience whenever possible, using specific numbers and examples
• Provide evidence of your welding certifications and NDT training

3. Showcase Safety and Teamwork

Steel hanging is a safety-critical role that requires effective teamwork. Highlight your commitment to safety and your ability to work collaboratively.

• Discuss your understanding of safety protocols and your experience working in a team environment
• Share examples of how you have contributed to safety initiatives or resolved conflicts on previous projects

4. Ask Insightful Questions

Ask thoughtful questions about the company, the project, and the role to demonstrate your interest and engagement.

• Inquire about the company’s approach to safety and quality
• Ask about the specific challenges or opportunities associated with the project you’re applying for