Questions/Answers

1- What is PID Responsibilities? SAEP-1150- Para- 9, and 7.1, WI-02-PID

Complete the responsibility of PID
PID is responsible for quality monitoring for all phases of the project cycle
from DBSP up to approval of Final MCC to ensure compliance with
applicable MSAERs and project specifications. ID is coverage begins with
DBSP & the engineering review of the project proposal and detailed
design as per SAEP-14, and SAEP-303
Appendix A – Instruction for PID/IA Coverage
Appendix B – Typical Inspection Points. WI-02-PID Para No.12 Civil
Introduction of Saudi Aramco Inspection Team Members and utilization
of the QMIS and

PID has QA role in Saudi Aramco projects. What does it mean to assure
that contractor has effective quality management system in place and to
assure the compliance with Company MSAERs, This may achieved through
attending RFIs, through surveillances and through focus assessments as
outlined in SAEP-1150 and in some of the work instruction under PID
responsibilities. Quality control is somehow is the responsibility of the
contractor QC personnel.

IA - Proponent Inspection Agency

DBSP -Design Basis Scoping Paper.
MCC – Mechanical Completion Certificate is a part of punch list.
MSAERs - Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirements.
EPM- Enterprise Project Management

1. WI 8.2-WI-09-ISSD
2. 8.2-WI-10-ISSD
3. SAEP-381
4. SAEP-1150
5. GI400-00
 What are the schedule Q and its attachment of?
This schedule describe Saudi Aramco’s minimum requirements of
contractor’s system. Contractor shall be totally responsibility for the
quality of the work required by this contract. as paragraph 5.4 of this
schedule Q Contractor responsibility as describe here shall not be
delegated without the delegated without express written consent of the
company representative.
Schedule Q have 6th Attachments
Attachment I contractor & sub-contractor quality personal
qualification requirements.
Attachment ii Saudi Aramco standards & procedures continuing
quality requirements.

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 Attachment iii Quality requirement for contractor supplied
materials.
Attachment iv Quality requirement for the construction phase.
Attachment v Summary of quality system deliverables.

Attachment vi Project specification quality requirements

2- SAEP-1150 Inspection Coverage on Projects

SCOPE: This procedure defines the responsibilities and
activities of the Inspection Department (ID)

3- SAEP-1151 Inspection Requirements for Contractor Procured Materials

And Equipment
SCOPE: This document, together with the purchase order
and appropriate project specifications define the minimum
mandatory inspection requirements for project contractor
materials and equipment.

4- SAEP-1152 Approval Procedure for Ready-Mixed Concrete Mix Design

SCOPE: This Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure (SAEP)
describes the approval process of ready-mixed concrete mix
design. It covers only structural and non-structural concrete
mixes described in 09-SAMSS-097 and SAES-Q-001. Special
concrete mix design such as those intended for
offshore/marine or high temperature facilities are not
covered by this procedure.

5- SAEP-1154 Guidelines for Contractor's Quality Plan

SCOPE: This Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure (SAEP)
provides guidelines to assist Contractors in the preparation,
review, acceptance and revision of Quality Plan covering as
applicable, design, procurement, and construction and pre-
commissioning activities.
It is intended for use as guidance to a Contractor
organization meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2000
and Schedule Q. A Quality Plan may also be used where a
documented Quality System does not exist, in which case
procedures may need to be developed to support the Quality
Plan.
Depending on the scope of the plan, a Qualifier may be used
such as “Quality Assurance Plan”.

6- SAEP-381 Project Quality Issues Escalation Process

SCOPE: This procedure establishes instructions for
categorization and escalation of unresolved quality issues
in Saudi Aramco projects including delinquent quality
concern notifications starting from the project proposal
phase all the way to the final Mechanical Completion
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 Certification Signatory or to the final closure of all
contractor and PID’s quality notifications.
7- SAEP-383 Approving Third Party Testing Laboratories Geotechnical
Engineering Offices, and Batch Plants
SCOPE: This procedure provides minimum requirements
for the approval of companies that intend to qualify as
Saudi Aramco approved third-party civil testing
laboratories, geotechnical engineering offices, Geotechnical
Third Party Testing Laboratory, and batch plants.

8- SAEP-385 Preservation of Project Materials and Equipment

SCOPE: This procedure, in alignment with project
specifications, Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirements and manufacturers’ instructions, establishes
minimum requirements for planning, monitoring, and
tracking the preservation of project materials and
equipment; through procurement, construction, pre-
commissioning, commissioning, and startup.
9- SAEP-122 Project Records
SCOPE: Definitions

10- What is INCR?

INCR: Internal Non Conformance Report (Issued by contractor)

Pid Name, Project Name, Non- Conformance & Corrective Action No.
Dep/Discipline, Location, Date, Raised By, Non-Conformance Details, Root
cause , Corrective Action , Preventive Action .
11- What is Focused Assessment?
Answer: Focused Assessment is a systematic examinations of a process and
any activity to verify compliance with applicable quality requirements. PID
should perform this regularly on selected elements / special processes of
the Contractor Quality System as per SAEP-1150 para. 9.10.4. Moreover, a
new work instruction (8.2-WI-09-ISSD) "Focused Assessment" has been
established and approved.
12- What is QA?
All the planned & systematic activities confidentially implemented to fulfill
requirement for quality.
13- What is QC?
The operation techniques and activities which are used to fulfill
requirement for quality
14- What is SATIP?
SATIP Saudi Aramco Typical Inspection Plan:
A listing of the various required inspection and testing activities and their
phases, sequence for a specific work item. OR
ITP Basically is an agreement between Aramco and contractor and have
mention with all details which are inspection for hold points witness points
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 and surveillances points further ITP have 4 contents i-Documents ii-
Material Receiving iii- Installation iv- pre commissioning
15- What is SAIC?
SAIC Saudi Aramco Inspection Checklist:
A listing of various inspection checkpoints based on Saudi Aramco
Standards.
SATIP FOR CONCRETE:
SATIP-Q-001-01: Portland cement Concrete - Batch Plants Management
SATIP-Q-001-02: Cast-In-Place Portland cement Concrete
SATIP-Q-001-03: Pre-Cast Concrete Fence Posts at Fabrication Yards
SATIP-Q-001-04: Structural Precast/Restressed Concrete at Fabrication Yards
SATIP FOR ASPHALT:
SATIP-Q-006-01: Asphalt Paving - Batch Plants Management
SATIP-Q-006-02: Asphalt Paving
SATIP-Q-006-03: Foamed Asphalt Stabilization
16- What is CORE TEST FOR CONCRETE? ASTM C42 / C42M
Answer: When compressive strength tests of laboratory-cured cylinders
fail to meet the specified acceptance criteria, core tests are commonly used
to verify the strength and to obtain acceptance of the in-place concrete
ACI-318
Dia meter of concrete core 3.70 inch (94mm)
17- What is CORE TEST FOR ASPHALT? SAES-Q-006 (ASTM C42 / C42M)
To find the thickness asphalt layer
To find the density of compacted asphalt
Minimum 5 cores randomly select location
Each core shall be marked as same location
10000m2 area is same day production
Is the area is less than 1800m2 then 3 cores should be take as per Saudi
Aramco representative instruction
For thickness ASTM-3549
For density ASTM -2726
For cores ASTM-5361
Acceptable tolerance 10mm or 15% below shall be filled with
asphalt/concert
18- What is PQP? Project Quality Plan.
Project Quality plan is a document that describe the nature of work,
standard, tools, and processes necessary to achieve quality in the delivery
of a project.
19- Quality Control Procedure (QCP):
A documented process detailing the resources and steps necessary to
complete, inspect and test a specific work activity.

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20- What is a Method of Statement?
Answer: Method of statement a special method that is prepared as per the
standard to guide construction about the work procedure as per the
standards for different activates like excavation, backfilling, grout and
concrete etc.
Or
A Method of Statement is a document that details the procedure and the way
a work task or a process is to be completed including a step by step guide
on how to do the job safely
21- What is LBE?

• Logbook Entry: Is a quality notification initiated by PID to contractor &

PMT highlighting a violation, General Comment or Proactive Notification.
22- Category of LBEs
• Standard violation:
Violations observed against the requirements of project documents,
Company standards and procedures, or applicable codes.
• Pro-active Notification:
A notification initiated to the Contractor when PID Inspector observe that
certain activity is on way to violation or a potential violation may occur.
• General Comment:
General comment will cover the regular inspection or visit of PID Inspector
as well as logging of internal NCR initiated by the Contractor.
Type of Surveillance
Routine Site Visit
Quality Assessment
Focused Assessment
Document Review
23- What is a quality plan?
A Quality Plan is a document that specifies the quality standards, practices,
resources, procedures and the sequence of activities relevant to a particular
project
OR- Document specifying which procedures and associated resources shall
be applied by whom and when to a specific project, product, process or
contract. (ISO 9000) and SAEP-1154
This Quality Plan Template is provided by Saudi Aramco and is intended to
Provide guidance for contractors in the development and preparation of
their
Quality Plan.
Saudi Aramco has adopted the basic framework and definitions of the
International Quality System Standard ISO-9000 series within this template.
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 The content and presentation of this template is based on a fictional
company (XYZ) and is in no way intended to reflect or restructure
contractors corporate
24- What is NCR and its components?
Non Conformance Report (Issued by Saudi Aramco through SAP)
Any activity not done as per standard and specification is cause to be NCR
NCR. 1) Violation ii description root cause iii Corrective action IV prevention
action 2nd Name of NCR, WIS, Working instruction, Sheet.
Types of NCR
We need to issue NCR when the items/material or system is not in
accordance to specifications and approved drawings. To avoid any
recurrence.

MINOR (If any one of the following applies)

1) Any violation to SAES, SAMSS, project specifications and approved IFC
drawings but the next phase of work is not dependent on the correction of
the violation.
2) If the violation will be categorized as ‘NO’ item as defined in GI-0002.710
during the partial MCC stage.

MODERATE (If any one of the following applies)

1) Any violation to MSAER, project specifications and approved IFC
drawings that if the next phase of work (critical path) is continued without
correcting the violation Page 5 of 17
The structural integrity of the next phase will be jeopardized. Such violation
if not corrected in a timely manner will lead to more severe damage or
complexity.
2) Any violation to Schedule Q.
Commentary Note:
Minor violations related to Schedule Q listed in Appendix D are excluded
from this definition.
3) If the violation will be categorized ‘YES’ item as defined in GI-0002.710
during the partial MCC stage.

MAJOR (If any one of the following applies)

1) Violations of company standards including GIs that put the quality and
integrity of the facility Including its workers and equipment at risk.
2) Actions that violate the corporate values by submitting forged items &
counterfeit materials.

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25- What is QMIS
8.2-WI-10-ISSD Awareness
Functions of Inspection Department in the Quality Management
Information System (QMIS)
The purpose of this WI is to establish a consistent method of reporting the
inspection activities conducted against received RFI, surveillance
inspections, document reviews, design reviews and focused assessments
26- What is MCC Mechanical Completion Certificate
27- What is MPCS Mechanical and Performance Closeout System
28- What is PMCC Partial Mechanical completion Certificate
29- What is slump and its type’s? True slump, zero, collapse, shear.
30- What are the tests you conduct on fresh concrete at site?
Slump or slump flow in millimeters 150(±40 mm) ASTM C143/C143M
Ambient air temperature in ºC 29
Concrete temperature in ºC 35
% Air, when air entrainment is used.
31- What ACI code for steel coating, epoxy coating.
SP-1(02); ACI 201.2R-08; ACI 222.2R-14 ACI 318-14; E2-00
Topics in Concrete: 318 Building Code; Concrete Fundamentals; Corrosion;
Reinforcement
32- How to receive material and which are inspection levels?
Non inspect-able
Level of Inspection: None
Answer: MR. Material Request ion
PO Purchased Order
DN Delivery Notes
MTC Material Tests Certificates
Vender Approval
9com
Inspect-able Material
Inspect able material shall be procured from an approved manufacturer.
Reference shall be made to SAEP-1151 “Inspection requirements for
contractor procured material” for required level of inspection
Level 0: Documentation requirements only as specified in applicable SA-
175 form; no vendor inspection required.
Level 1: Only final inspection is required prior to shipping.
Level 2: minimum requirements, pre-inspection meeting, one or more
unspecified “in progress surveillance visits.
Level 3: same as level 2, expect that in progress surveillance inspection shall
be in regular basis.
Level 4: Resident inspector continually monitoring the work.
SAPMT is responsible to provide contractor a list of all inspect able
materials with their respective inspection levels, extracted from SAP, as a
part of IFB (Issued for Bid) package.
SAEP-1151 Para 10.7

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33- How many types of NMR, describe in details?
Nonmaterial Requirement have 3 types.
601- PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS AND DATA FOR REVIEW AND APPROVAL
BY BUYER.
602- CERTIFIED DRAWINGS, LITERATURE, PHOTOGRAPHS, ETC.
603-OPERATION, MAINTENCE MANUALS INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS,
TEST CERTIFICATES, ETC.
34- What does AASHTO, ACI, ASTM, SAMSS, SATR, PMT, FRC stand for?
I) American Association of State Highways and Transportation Official.
ii) American concrete institute
iii) American standard testing material
iv) Saudi Aramco material system specification
v) Saudi Aramco test report
VI) Project management Team
vii) Flame Resistant Clothing
35- What is quarantine area?
We know as a part of contractor's quality control of their supplied materials,
they must arrange and provide quarantine area to store defective/non-
compliance materials and equipment’s, damages and wastage materials.
36- What is special process as per schedule Q?
Special Process Procedures and Personnel Qualification Procedures:
Paragraph 3.5 & 3.7 of Attachment III and Paragraph 2 of Attachment IV
Special Process Procedures (approved as specified in Paragraph 3.5 of this
Attachment III)
As a minimum, each ITP shall include the following information:
3.5 Process description
Quality control requirements
Notification requirements for supplier inspection, witness and hold
points (minimum 5 calendar days.)
Responsibility for inspection/test
Applicable procedures
Acceptance criteria (Saudi Aramco and International Industry
Standards)
Verifying documents
Inspection points (Hold, Witness & Review)
3.7 Supplier and sub supplier personnel for NDT, Positive Material
Identification, and welding shall be qualified as specified by SAUDI
ARAMCO’s Standards and Attachment I of this Schedule “Q”.
CONTRACTOR shall review and approve such qualifications prior to
the start of manufacturing.

Schedule Q Attachment IV
Answer: the following special processes required Saudi Aramco’s
review and/approval of work procedures, personnel qualifications,
or personnel qualification procedures. Contractor shall ensure that
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 these special processes are accomplished under controlled
conditions as specified in all applicable standards and
specifications. All procedures and personnel Qualification shall be
submitted for review and /or approval at least thirty (30) calendar
days prior to the start of work

Special Process
Work
Personnel
Procedure Personnel
Qualificatio
Approval Qualificatio
Special Process n Procedure
(A) or n Approval
Approval
Review (R) Required
Required
Required
Coatings A No Yes
Concrete & Asphalt Mix Design A No No
Concrete Installation R No No
Structural Bolt Tensioning R No No
*Note: Approval of personnel qualification procedure is not required when
the work is subcontracted to an approve NDT contractor.

37- How to approve batch plant new & reevaluation?

Request for inspection
SATIP-Q-006-001 For Asphalt batch plant
SAIC-Q-1031
SAES-Q-001-02 For concrete batch plant
SAIC-Q-1001
SAIC-Q-1002
Appendix C – Batch Plant Approval Process - Permanent Basis. SAEP-383
Appendix D – Batch Plant Approval Process - One-Time Basis. SAEP-383

TABLES OF CONTENTS.
(1)Certified by ISO-9001-2015
(2)Vender #
(3)Initial survey report
(4)Asphalt laboratory & batch plant calibration log and equipment details
(5)Calibration certificate
(6)Super pave mix design review, analysis & one point check
(7)Super pave mix design report (mix design -25R5 C4Y)
(8)Technical specification of Dawood asphalt mix design (general the basis
engineering factor main equipment
(9)Organization chart of batch plant for laboratory & batch plant
(10)Lists of contractor’s staff category
(11)List of machinery and equipment for asphalt work
(12)C.R & others certificates
(13)Resume of the laboratory /material engineers, lab engineers and QC
engineer will be submitted separately
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 (14)Attachments to 7.5 WI –PID-BP&CTU (Almost 9to 10 Nos)
(15)General survey information’s
(16)Technical survey
(17)Material testing and laboratory survey SAES-Q-006)

 Evaluate, Approve and monitoring of Permanent and one time approved

Civil Testing Laboratories (Service Providers) as required by SAEP 1150,
Clause 9.13.1 & SAEP 383
 Assessment every 3 years the permanent approved Civil Testing
Laboratories as required by SAEP 383.
 Administer evaluation of competencies, examinations, issuance, control &
maintenance of Civil Testing Technician approval (CTTA)or rejections per
SAEP 383
 Support CSD in the evaluation, approvals and maintenance of
Geotechnical Testing Service provider to Saudi Aramco per SAEP 383.
 Train the Department new staff if requested
 Maintain the KPI Records Civil Testing Laboratory.
 Provide guidance and on the job training for Inspection Department
sponsored Cooperative Students Trainee from KFUPM, Operational
Audits/Upstream Audits Division, Prince
Mohammad University, University of Dammam and new Saudi Aramco
employee under PDP.
 Support Saudi Aramco Contracting Department on Civil Testing
Laboratory evaluation for General Bid slate Cycles.
 Implement the Civil Testing compliant to ISO 17025:2005 per SAEP 383.
Maintain records and notify deviation
 Issuance of documented Non-conformities to approved CTL if required.
 Maintain the compliance record of all approved CTL as required by SAEP
1150, Clause 9.13.4.
 Maintain and implement the Civil testing test reports as required by SAEP
1150, Clause 9.13.6.

Concrete batch plant

What is the importance of Concrete Batch Plants?
Will it be necessarily to perform the day –to day monitoring as per SAEP
1150 clause in para. 9.13.3 - PID to "perform the day-to-day monitoring".
BP&CTU: Batch Plants and Civil Testing Unit –
Inspection Department (ID)
CSD: Consulting Services Department
VRC: Vendor Review Committee - Engineering Services
ISSD: Inspection Support Services Division
38- What are the documents attached for the new concrete mix design?
Answer: approval for new mixes design requires several attachments such
as test reports, calculations and mill certificates, mix design with
established Mix ID Number require only the Request for Approval
(Appendix A) and a copy of the approved Appendix B “Concrete Mix Design

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 Data Sheet”. However, the concrete mix design with an established Mix ID
Number, needs to be verified if the tests on the constituent parts are up-to-
date. If raw materials test reports are not updated based on the frequency
set forth in 09-SAMSS-088, the mix design will not be accepted.
Appendix A SAEP-1152 Request for Approval (RFA) Concrete Mix
Design
Appendix B SAEP-1152 Concrete Mix Design Data Sheet
Appendix C SAEP.1152 Ready Mix Concrete Trial Batch Report
Tests reports approved by 3rd party 3rd party also already approved by SA.
Mix design 6000 psi ASTM C-39
Compressive strength report
Tests certificate of cements
Chemical tests
Method ASTM – C117-13 & C136-14
Certificate of calibrations
Concrete mix design test report (sign and stamped by Aramco approved 3rd
party)
Compressive strength report (ASTM C39)
Concrete uniformity test report (ASTM C94/C94M
Sulphate & chlorite report of cylinder 3rd party
Computer generated print out of batching
Moisture test content report of course aggregate and fine aggregate by
Aramco approved 3rd party
Cement test certificate provided by manufacturer
Micro silica test report by Aramco approved 3rd party
Test certificate of admixture by manufacturer
Test report of aggregate (course and fine) abrasion, soundness, clay lump.
As per 09-SAMSS-088 by 3rd party
Mixing water test report by Aramco approved 3rd party
Gradation test report of coarse and fine aggregate by Aramco approved 3rd
party
Batch plant equipment calibration certificate by Aramco approved 3rd
party
Material data sheet of cement and admixture by Aramco approved 3rd party
39- SATIP and SAIC used for civil activities?
SATIP A-114-01 (SAIC-A-1001 to SAIC-A-1006)
SATIP H-003-01 (SAIC-H-2023, 2026, 2010, SAIC-H-1002 to 1004)
SATIP M-006-01 (SAIC-M-1001 to SAIC-M-1005)
SATIP Q-001-02 (SAIC-Q-1006 to SAIC-Q-1013, SAIC-Q-1015 to SAIC-Q-
1017, SAIC-Q-1060 & SAIC-M-2021)
SATIP Q-001-03 (SAIC-Q-1006, SAIC-Q-1018 to SAIC 1021)
Survey Coordinates, Datum's and Data Formats SAES-A-100
Borrow Pit Requirements SAES-A-111
Onshore Geotechnical Engineering Requirements SAES-A-113
Excavation and Backfill SAES-A-114
Approved SA Data Sheets- Paints and Coatings SAES-H-101V
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 Protective Coatings for Concrete Structures SAES-H-003
Construction of on-Land and Nearshore Pipelines SAES-L-450
Pipeline Crossings under Roads and Railroads SAES-L-456
Saudi Aramco Building Code SAES-M-100
Structural Design Criteria for Non-Building Structures SAES-M-001
Saudi Aramco General Purpose Fencing SAES-M-006
Structural concrete constructions SAES-Q-001
Standard concrete foundation SAES-Q-005
Asphalt and Sulfur Extended Asphalt Concrete Paving SAES-Q-006
Foundations & Heavy Machinery SAES-Q-007
Concrete Retaining Walls SAES-Q-009
Cement Based, Non-Shrink Grout SAES-Q-010
Epoxy Grout for Machinery Support SAES-Q-011
Precast and Prestressed Concrete Structures SAES-Q-012
Building Architectural Design, Finishes Requirements SAES-R-004
09-SAMSS-088 Aggregates for Concrete
09-SAMSS-097 Ready-Mixed Portland cement Concrete
09-SAMSS-106 Epoxy Coating of Steel Reinforcing Bars
Masonry unit ACI-530
Hot weather concrete ACI-305R
Curing concrete ACI-308
Concrete reinforcement ACI-315
Reinforced concrete ACI-318
Plan concrete ACI-318.1M
Formwork for Concrete ACI-347R
Masonry Mortar ASTM-C270
Concrete compressive strength ASTM-C39
Cement ASTM-C150
Zing coating to steel bar ASTM-A767
Epoxy coating to steel bar ASTM-A775
Plastic Index (PI) ASTM-D4318
Sieve Analysis (Gradation) ASTM-C-136
Sand Cone Method ASTM-D-1556
Nuclear Method (Textural Machine) ASTM-D-2922
Compressive strength sample for epoxy grout ASTM-C-579
Epoxy Coatings for Application on Damp Steel Surfaces 09-SAMSS-087
Aggregates for Concrete 09-SAMSS-088
Ready-Mixed Concrete 09-SAMSS-097
Precast Concrete Fence Posts 09-SAMSS-098
Epoxy Coating of Steel Reinforcing Bars 09-SAMSS-106

40- What about you know about precast installation?

i. 50 mm lean concrete slab shall be placed in the bottom of the
excavation immediately before placing the precast concrete
foundations.

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 ii. A layer of clean sand not more than 50 mm thick shall be
placed in the bottom of the excavation.
iii. If clean sand is used it must be carefully leveled prior to
placing the precast foundations and 0.15 mm plasticized sheet
vapor barrier shall be placed beneath the foundations
All I know about precast installation are proper planning and preparatory
works are required before the actual erection of the precast concrete
foundations to ensure efficient and quality installation. As per SATIP-Q-
012-01
41- How to approve 3rd party new & reevaluation?
Answer: Appendix A shall be followed for TPCTL Approval Process -
Permanent Basis approval. As per SAEP-383
Appendix B shall be followed for TPCTL Approval Process - One-Time
Basis approval.
TPCTL Evaluation Report BP&CTU shall issue evaluation report to VRC.
The report shall be reviewed and approved by the VRC.
Geotechnical Third Party Testing Laboratory (GTPTL) Evaluation Report
BP&CTU, in coordination with CSD shall issue evaluation report to VRC.
The report shall be reviewed and approved by the VRC
Assessment: Systematic evaluation of the Saudi Aramco approved TPCTL,
Geotechnical Engineering Offices, and Batch Plants at planned frequencies
using the minimum guidelines of ISO 19011 or ISO/IEC 17025.
42- How to approval new concrete mix design & describe its process including
mandatory documents for approval?
approval for new mixes design requires several attachments such as test
reports, calculations and mill certificates, mix design with established Mix
ID Number require only the Request for Approval (Appendix A) and a copy
of the approved Appendix B “Concrete Mix Design Data Sheet”. However, the
concrete mix design with an established Mix ID Number, needs to be verified
if the tests on the constituent parts are up-to-date. If raw materials test
reports are not updated based on the frequency set forth in 09-SAMSS-088,
the mix design will not be accepted.
Appendix A SAEP-1152 Request for Approval (RFA) Concrete Mix Design
Appendix B SAEP-1152 Concrete Mix Design Data Sheet
Appendix C SAEP.1152 Ready Mix Concrete Trial Batch Report
Tests reports approved by 3rd party 3rd party also already approved by
Mix design 6000 psi ASTM C-39
Compressive strength report
Tests certificate of cements
Chemical tests
Method ASTM – C117-13 & C136-14
Certificate of calibrations
(1)Concrete mix design test report (sign and stamped by Aramco approved 3rd party)
(2)Compressive strength report (ASTM C39)
(3)Concrete uniformity test report (ASTM C94/C94M
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 (4)Sulphate & chlorite report of cylinder 3rd party
(5)Computer generated print out of batching
(6)Moisture test content report of course aggregate and fine aggregate by Aramco approved 3rd party
(7)Cement test certificate provided by manufacturer
(8)Micro silica test report by Aramco approved 3rd party
(9)Test certificate of admixture by manufacturer
(10)Test report of aggregate (course and fine) abrasion, soundness, clay lump. As per 09-SAMSS-088 by 3rd party
(11)Mixing water test report by Aramco approved 3rd party
(12)Gradation test report of coarse and fine aggregate by Aramco approved 3rd party
(13)Batch plant equipment calibration certificate by Aramco approved 3rd party
(14)Material data sheet of cement and admixture by Aramco approved 3rd party

43- What is level of inspection for construction phase?

Hold point: the inspection activity will not proceed w/o the present of SA
Aramco.
Witness point .is the level of inspection activity can proceed without SA
Aramco represented after issuing RFI.
Review. Verification of documents on its corrective i.e. mill certificates.
Surveillance. Inspector is free to conduct random inspection.
44- What is CBR?
The under control density and moisture relationship is called CBR
OR
The California Bearing Ratio test is a penetration test meant for the
evaluation of subgrade strength of roads and pavements.

ASTM D1883 Test Method for CBR (California Bearing Ratio) of

Laboratory-Compacted Soils
CBR are have two types 1- laboratory CBR-soaked or UN soaked with
different degree of compaction 2- Field CBR
CBR value at min. 95% compaction as per ASTM D1557 sub base SAES-Q-
006 table -7
CBR value at min. 100% compaction as per ASTM D1557 base
Where existing subgrade materials have a CBR of 5 or less, a subbase with a
minimum CBR of 15 shall be provided with a minimum thickness of 20 cm.

45- Describe the Marshall Test & Specifications?

Marshall Test is a popular and proven method to measure the load and flow
rate of asphalt specimens, beginning with compaction into molds using
manual or automated Marshall Compactors and conditioned in a water bath
at the specified temperature.
Or
Marshall Test is used to determine the load (density) and flow rate of
asphalt.
46- What is Geotechnical Report? SAEP-61 and SAES-A113
Geotechnical reports are made up of 3rd party 3rd party approved by SA
laboratory results from soil samples taken from bore holes, cone
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penetration test, dynamic penetration test, and pore water pressure test.
Geotechnical investigation report also contains information about the
topography of the site, boring and test pit locations, estuaries and wetlands,
lithological structure of soil and rock and its physical and mechanical
properties, depth of ground water, pore water pressure, soil stratification,
and location and assessment of all structures within 50 feet of the proposed
pipeline path

Or

The geotechnical report is the tool used to communicate the site conditions
and design and construction recommendations to the roadway design,
bridge design, and construction personnel. Site investigations for
transportation projects have the objective of providing specific information
on subsurface soil, rock, and water conditions. Interpretation of the site
investigation information, by a geotechnical engineer, results in design and
construction recommendations that should be presented in a project
geotechnical report. The importance of preparing an adequate geotechnical
report cannot be overstressed. The

Geotechnical investigations are performed by geotechnical engineers or

engineering geologists to obtain information on the physical properties of
soil earthworks and foundations for proposed structures and for repair of
distress to earthworks and structures caused by subsurface conditions.

Geotechnical Form SA-9866” with Section B (Geotechnical File Number by

CSD) completed, and Section C filled in by SAPMT or Saudi Aramco
Proponent.

Geotechnical investigations are also required for significant earthworks,

including excavations in depth excess of 3 m, earth or rock dams,

Submit to the Onshore Engineering Group of CSD by making a CRM

request.

Appendix 1 - Geotechnical Form SA-9866

Appendix 2 - Report Checklist

Appendix 3 - Geotechnical Report Request FormSA-9866-1

Appendix 4 - Request to Utilize Past Geotechnical Report Form SA-9866-2

Appendix 5 - Earthworks and Soil Compaction Method Statement Checklist

Appendix 6 - Soil Improvement Method Statement/Scope of Work Checklist

Appendix 7 - Soil Improvement Final Report Checklist

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47- What is SA 175 form?
Answer: IR-175 Forms specifies minimum mandatory inspection
requirements for inspect able materials.
And ITP is a documents detailing a systematic approach to testing a product
(e.g. material components etc.) such as visual, dimensional, welding,
functional test FAT etc. And participation of all parties.
48- 9CAT
Materials having a standard material catalog number (material master
number) that may be stocked by Saudi Aramco or by suppliers. Approved
manufacturer sources and product references are maintained within the
catalog description at the line item level. Records are maintained (within
each plant/Materials Service Center) at cost utilizing a moving average unit
price. Such materials may have been originally procured direct charge
(prior to cataloging activity) but are returned to inventory at the current
moving average price.
49- 9COM
Non-cataloged materials which are not stocked in Procurement & Supply
Chain Management but may be stocked by suppliers. Potential
manufacturer sources are maintained at the generic material description
level. When the specific item is received, it is directly charged against a cost
object (such as cost center).
9COM. Saudi Aramco’s material classification system that describes a
commodity or a class of materials, but not a specific item.
9CAT. Specific items whose descriptions are maintained by Saudi Aramco in
their catalogue.
50- What is spot backfilling?
Answer: Spot backfilling shall be used to restrain the pipe after it has been
lowered into the trench. Spot backfill shall have full specified cover and shall
cover all preformed bends a distance of 6 m to each side of the centers of the
bends. The maximum clear distance between spot backfills shall be as
specified by the project design. Spot backfills shall cover the pipe for at least
4.5 m along the pipe. The spot backfilling shall not be closer than 24 meters
from the free end.
51- Is there any required maximum numbers of days that Contractor will reply
on ID logbook entries in the QMIS like the proactive and general comment?
Answer: 48 HOURS
Schedule Q para 7.5.6 Contractor Shall respond to all non-conformities
(NCRs, Discrepancy reports, COMPANY Logbook entries etc.) issued by
COMPANY in writing within 48 hours of receiving notifications of non-
conformance , including his proposed corrective actions.
52- If contractor requested to cancel RFI in QMIS prior to inspection time due to
safety, weather or other reasons. Which category applied in QMIS to close
the RFI. "Work not inspected and close RFI or Job not ready".

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 Answer: It can be consider a (Work not inspected and close RFI) with
understanding of 8.2-WI-10-ISSD, Para 9.1.2.1. States that Inspector is not
able to attend the request RFI due to other business consideration.

For HOLD point RFI. In addition for witness point RFI can be consider as
(Work not inspected and close RFI) due to bad weather, Permit issue, other
critical or top priority work ongoing and contractor request to cancel (it can
be). RFI shall be rejected due to safety or other contractor related issues
(Shall not be consider as cancel). Contractor responsibility to arrange all
safety and security for safe work.
Kindly check also one-day look ahead schedule (Contractor request to
ARAMCO for permit) prior to RFI cancellation
53- What is route cause?

Contractor will give the reason.

54- What is corrective action?
55- What is hot weather concrete?
Answer:
i) Use of chill water and ice as necessary to achieve required temperatures
ii) Use of plasticizing retarding admixtures at maximum efficiency during
hot concrete periods. With controlled dosages for mass pours if required.
The mixture used conforms to ASTM, BS, DIN and other standards.
iii) Washing or sprinkling of aggregates and shading the washed aggregate
bays to maximum evaporative cooling

ACI-305R-77 hot weather concrete.

56- Which Saudi Aramco ITP use for inspection of HDPE linear activates, write
the name of ITP?
Ans. SATIP-A-104-01 High density Polyethylene (HDPE) liner for
wastewater Disposal /Evaporation.
57- Explain the Quality control requirements during FBE coated rebar bending
activities in lay down yard?
Answer: The quality control requirements during FBE coated rebar bending
activities in laydown yard is IFC drawing of bar bending schedule. It is also
required the correct sizes of the mandrel shall be used that corresponds the
sizes of the rebar.
Or
Cracking or disbanding of the (FBE) coating on the outside arduous of the
bent bars visible to a person with normal or corrected vision shall be
considered cause for rejection of the coated steel reinforcing bars. (ASTM A
775/A 775M-07b, Sec. 8.3.2), All damaged coating due to fabrication or
handling shall be repaired with the manufacturers approved patching
material and written recommendation .(ASTM A775/ A 775M-
07b,Sec.11.2/11.5) Reference SAIC-Q-1007.
58- Define plastic & non plastic fill materials?

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 Answer: The portion of select fill material passing the No.40 sieve shall
have a maximum liquid limit and plasticity limit tests are not required for
select fill material with less than 15% passing the No.200 sieve.
Or
P.I: P.I is the numerical difference between the liquid and plastic limit
P.I = L.L- P.L
Soil with plasticity index (PI) =0 is non plastic, PI=1 or more plastic
materials
Plasticity limit for select fill 12
Liquid limit for select fill 35 as per ASTM D4318.
59- Define Saudi Aramco fence type IV & V?
Answer: In fence type –IV wire fabric height will be 2.4M with single
extension arm and 3 standard barbed wires. Fence type –v wire fabric
height will be 2.4M without single extension arm and 3 standards barbed
wire
60- Which Saudi Aramco ITP use for inspection Gypsum Board system
installation, write the name of ITP?
Answer: SATIP M-100-05
61- Define Role & responsibilities of Contractor QC Civil Inspector?
Rules and responsibilities of contractor QC Civil Inspector are the most
important in the field of construction especially in inspection. They are the
one who will conduct the quality inspection, witness quality related testing,
raise RFI to client and raising NCR for any discrepancies observed at the site.
Monitor on a daily basis, civil activates and verify compliance to standard
and projects specification. Perform activities in accordance with the project
QA manual and quality Control inspection plan. Prepare QC records daily,
and finial acceptance documentation. Maintain a close working relationship
with the customer’s Representative. Ensure that all work are perform as per
standard, drawing and method of statement. Ensure that work are
inspected. Tested and approved prior to proceed to next activity. Review
test report and keep file for all inspection and test report.

62- How QC Civil Inspector shall verify the TPTL technician that he is qualified
for sampling during sampling of bituminous asphalt at site?
Answer: By verifying his approval card with if he passed the requirements
of ASTM D 979
By check technicians civil test testing technician approval card (CTTA)
63- Define the Process for newly sulphere extended mix design for approval?
Answer: Ans.30% by weight of the Asphalt Binder in the mix shall be replace
by pelletized elemental sulfur.
64- Define the process of plastering work for CMU activity as per SATIP?
Plastering is the process of covering rough walls, voids and uneven surfaces
in the construction of houses and other structures. CMU shall be free of
laitance, loose materials, oil or other materials that reduce or prevent
bonding with mortar.
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65- What is the required number of bar bands used for corner, end and gate
posts?
Answer: Corner =2 no’s, end and gate = 1 no.
66- What is minimum width of right of way in sabkha and sand dune area?
Answer: for sabkha 6 m and for dune sand 3meter on each side.
67- Which Saudi Aramco ITP use for inspection of Doors & windows installation,
write the name of ITP?
Answer: SATIP-M-100-07
68- Define Retempering of concrete?
Answer: Retempering of concrete or adding of water to a concrete is a
common practice in ready mixed concrete industries for adjusting the
workability that might adversely affect the strength and durability of
concrete properties.
Addition of water into concrete or in mixer is known as re-tempering of
concrete.
69- Define Refractory bricks specifications?
A refractory brick is built primarily to withstand high temperature, but will
also usually have a low thermal conductivity for greater energy efficiency.
70- What are the requirements of concrete placement activity?
Vibrators and Raking shall not be used for movement of concrete after
placement Vibrators not use without rubber cover Re-tempering, The
interval between concrete deliveries not more than 20 minutes. Aluminum
alloys shall not be used for pump lines, termites, or chutes used to discharge
concrete from a truck mixer.
71- How many types of anchor bolts and what is formula of anchor bolt
projection (single and double nut)?
Answer: 6 types in Saudi Aramco, Type 1, 1s, (ASTM-A307). Type 2, type 2s,
(ASTM A36/A36M or ASTM 1554, Gr.36) Type 3, Type 3s (ASTM A
193/A193M or ASTM 1554, Gr.105)
Projection for 1 and 2
Single: Grouting thickness +base plate +2d
Double: Grouting thickness + base plate + 3D
72- Which SAIC is used for formwork inspection, installation of epoxy coated
steel bar, grout mixing and concrete surface preparation prior to coating?
Answer: SAIC-Q-1012 for formwork, SAIC-Q-1013 for steel bar, SAIC-Q-
1049 for grouting. SAIC-H-1003 for surface preparation.
73- What are the types of Saudi Aramco security fence?
Answer: Types of fence (five) i to v
Zinc-coated (galvanized) steel wire fencing
Zinc-coated (galvanized) steel fence posts, rails, gates, fitting, barbed wire,
tension wire, and tie wire
Polymer-Coated galvanized steel wire fencing in accordance with ASTM
F668
Polymer coated galvanized steel fence posts, rails, gates, fitting, barbed wire,
tension wire and tie wire

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74- What is difference between fill and select fill material?
SAES-A-114 Para (6.1.1.2, 6.1.2.1) select fill material max size 50mm and fill
material max size 75mm.
Select Fill Material 6.1.2.1 Select Fill or ‘Structural Fill’ shall be composed
only of inorganic material and shall have 100% passing the 5 cm (2 in) sieve
and from 0 to 20% passing the No. 200 sieve. General Fill Material 6.1.1.1
General Fill Material shall consist of gravel, sand and/or marl. The
maximum size of the fill material shall be one-half the lift thickness or 75
mm (3 inches), whichever is less
75- How many type of grouting and what is the minimum compressive strength
of non-shrinkage grout after 7 days and 28 days?
Answer: 2 Types cementation grouting and epoxy grouting
Cementation grounding 7 days (24MPa) 3500 psi .28 days (34.5MPA)
5000 psi
Driver horsepower less than 500 (373 kW).
3600 RPM or less. Combined weight of machine, driver, and base plate up to
2,270 kg (5,000 lbs.).
Epoxy grouting 12,000psi (80 MPa) at 7 days ASTM C579, Method B 28
days (48000 Psi)
76- What TDS required for the following?
Concrete mixing –below 500ppm
Grout mixing- below 500ppm
Curing - below 1000ppm / Grout-500ppm
Compaction – more than 1000ppm
Washing aggregates – 3500ppm
77- What information we get from concrete batch ticket?
Name of ready mix batch plant location, name of purchaser, name of the job
location, time of loading, amount of concrete cum, time leaving batch plant.
78- What is APCS? What types of APCS used for above ground and below
ground?
Answer: Approved Painting Coating System
Above ground. APCS-1B, APCS-1E SAES-H-101V
Buried. APCS-3, APCS-10, APCS-113A
79- What is maximum size of backfill material used for berm construction in
rock and sand areas?
Answer: backfill shall not contain rock large than 150mm size.
80- What is DFT and minimum requirements for APCS-1b, APCS-3 and APCS-10?
Dry film thickness, APCS-1B (275 To 400), APCS-3 (Not less than 400 mic),
APCH-10 (Not less than 750 mic) SAES-H-101V
81- What is half trench?
Answer: SAES-L-450 Para – 13.9.3
82- What %age of compaction should be achieved for backfilling below
foundations and sand backfilling?
Answer: (ASTM D1557) Vibrating or heavy machinery below foundation:
cohesion less Soil 85%
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 Cohesion less material 95%
For general fill backfilling Soil 90% Sand 70%
83- What are testing needed for the installation / laying of Asphalt?
Answer: Prime Coat or MC-70 and MC-250
Atmospheric temperature is 16°C or above
Distributor rate between 0.65 and 1.75 liters per square meter
MC-70 50°C and 80°C
MC-250 65°C and 105°C
Tack Coat RC-70 and RC 250
RC-70 50 to 80°C.
RC- 250
Distributor at a maximum rate of 0.25 liters per square meter
The base and sub-base are compacted to not less than 100% and 95% of the
maximum dry density.
Testing shall be conducted at a rate of one test every 180 m² of base or sub-
base.
Temperature with hot mix asphalt 139 to 163
Temperature with sulfur mix asphalt 130 to 140
96% of the Marshall density per ASTM D 6926.
The mixing temperature for the binder shall be 170 +5°C. There are no
other precautions needed for preparing mixes with the modified asphalt.
The tack coat shall be applied by means of bitumen distributor at a
maximum rate of 0.25 liters per square meter.
The prime coat shall consist of MC-70 or MC-250 as per SAES-Q-006/MOT
Table 4.01-2.
Kinematic Viscosity @ 60 C for MC 70 is (70-140) and for MC 250 is (250-500).
Spray bar nozzle adjustment of the Prime/Tack Coat
Spray bar height to obtain desired coverage
When the atmospheric temperature is less than 16°C
Use 4 m straightedge
4mm tolerance when measured parallel to centerline
3mm tolerance when measured perpendicular to centerline
Asphalt Paving Cross-Section
1- Wearing Course
2- Tack Coat
3- Binder Course
4- Prime Coat
5- Aggregate Base
6- Sub-Base
7- Compacted Sub - Grade
Slope form Center to end 1.5%

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84- What is the height of security fence wire fabric and maximum spacing of line
posts?
Answer: fence height -2400mm, spacing of line post-3m
85- What is difference between compaction and consolidation?
Answer: Compaction is a process where a mechanical pressure is used to
compress. And consolidation is process where steady and static pressure.

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Fill in Blanks:

86- During Raised Equipment Floor installation and final Inspection, The floor
surface shall be leveled to within ± _______ mm per panel and ±______mm in
3.0 meters.
87- What should be the minimum asphalt mix temperature on site?
Answer: 139 to 163 as per (ASTM-D979
88- Max size of road base or sub base class “A” material passing from sieve size
shall be 100%?
No 2.5 Inch sieve size
89- What is maximum size of sand used for sand bedding?
Answer: 12 mm
90- What are pipeline minimum trench dimensions in rock area and minimum
height of berm?
Answer: 600mm+D / Min height of berm 900mm
91- What is liquid limit?
The amount of water at which soil passes from plastic to liquid state.
Liquid limit sub base 25 max base material 25 max ASTM-D4318
92- Write down the dimensions of Concrete test cylinder & slump cone?
(i) Cylinder: 150mm dia x300 mm height
(ii) Slump Cone: 100mm dia X 300mm height X 200mm bottom.

93- What plastic limit?

The amount of water at which soil passes from liquid to plastic state.
Plasticity Index (ASTM D4318) 6 max. (Base course)
SAES-Q-006 – Sec. 5.5.1.B.3 table 3 max. (Wearing Course)
94- What is the plastic limit of sub-base and base material?
Sub-base 6 max – Base 6 max.
95- What is the retention concrete mix design?
Answer: Slump retention
96- Which SAES used for concrete coating application?
Answer: SAES-H-003
97- What is the minimum required compaction density of asphalt?
Answer: 95% sub-base, 100% base.
98- What is soundness test for coarse aggregate fine aggregate?
Soundness Test (ASTM C88) Using Mg SO4, % loss
Coarse Aggregate Fine Aggregate Sub-base 25% max – Base 25% max
99- Minimum and maximum temperature of ready mix concrete in SA?
Concrete temperature in +- C 35
100-How many times batch plant scales are calibrated yearly?
2 times
101-What is MC & RC and their application rates?
MC medium curing or prime coat shall be applied consists of MC-70 or MC-
250 (1.75 lit per Sq. m)
RC tack coat shall be RC-70 or RC 250 – (0.25 lit per Sq. m)

102-Describe confined space?

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 Answer: Any excavation or trench reaches a depth of 1.2 m or when soil
banks are greater than 1.5 m
103-The total mineral aggregate shall be ----------by weight of the asphalt mix?

Answer: 93 to 96 %
No. 30 sieve size 100
No. 50 sieve size 95-100
No. 200 sieve size 70-100
104-Max size of road base class “B” material passing from sieve size---shall be
100%?
Answer: No 1.5 Inch sieve size

105-How many mix requirement of Asphalt Binder?

Answer: 4 to 7 %
106-Convert to 35 MPa to PSI

1 MPa = 145.038 PSI

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What is QA?
All the planned & systematic activities confidentially implemented to fulfill requirement
for quality.
What is QC?
The operation techniques and activities which are used to fulfill requirement for quality

As per ISO 9000:2015

3.2 Related terms to Organization.
QC: Part of quality management focused on fulfilling quality requirements.
QA: Part of quality management focused on providing confidence that quality
requirement will be fulfilled.
Definition:
QA- QA is set of activities for ensuring quality the processes by which products are
developed.
QC- QC is set of activities ensuring quality in products the activities focus on identifying
defects in the actual products produced.
Focus On:
QA- QA aims to prevent defects with a focus on the process used to make the product. It is
a proactive quality process.
QC- QC aims to identify (and correct) defects in the finished product quality control,
therefore is a reactive process.
Goal:
QA. The goal of QA is to improve development and process so that defects do not arise
when the products is being developed.
How:
QA –Establish good quality management system and the assessment of its adequacy.
Periodic conformance audits of the operations of the system.
QC- Finding & eliminating sources of quality problems through tools & equipment so that
customer’s requirements are continentally met.
What:
QA- Prevention of quality problems through planned and systematic activates including
documentation
QC- the activities or techniques used to achieve and maintain the product quality, process
and service.
Responsibility:
QA- Everyone on the team involved in developing product is responsible for quality
assurance.
QC- Quality control is usually the responsibility of a specific team that tests the product
for defects.
Example:
QA- Verification is an example of QA
QC- Validation / Software testing is an example of QC
Statistical Technique.
QA- statistical tools & technique can be applied in both QA & QC. When they are applied to
process (Process inputs & operational parameters), they are called statistical process
Control (SPI): & it becomes the part of QA.
As a tool.
QA- QA is managerial tool
QC- QC is a corrective tool

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