What is Formwork in Construction?

The construction of any structure, be it a bridge or a tank, requires elaborate processes involving many steps. Formwork is an essential part of the construction process. With a wide range of technological advancements, the construction industry is constantly evolving. From the introduction of new methods for the construction of various structures to developing and using machines that greatly reduce the risk factor, the industry has reached new heights. The use of formwork for the concrete slab and lifting heavy equipment has generated a great demand in the construction industry.

The first question to ask is, what is formwork? Formwork is a temporary structure that can support a part or even the whole of a permanent structure until it can support itself. The components are assembled to form the temporary structure. One of the most common methods of keeping the formwork in place is a supportive scaffold system. Sometimes heavy lifting equipment is used in place of scaffolding. Bygging Uddemann has the most comprehensive systems in the business for formwork construction. Our efficient systems are suitable for all kinds of heavy loads whose placing, removal and transport require a high degree of precision. 

Requirements of Good Formwork

The use of concrete formwork has become a common practice among leading construction companies worldwide. Construction projects that require formwork include roof and steel structures, bridges, bridge sections, and concrete slabs. Good formwork should satisfy all the following requirements listed below: 

• Should be sturdy and durable to withstand all kinds of dead loads
• Should be braced efficiently and propped horizontally and vertically, to retain shape
• The joints in the formwork should prevent leakage of cement grout
• Should allow for removal of various parts in desired sequences without concrete damage
• The formwork material should be affordable, suitable for reuse and easily available
• It should be as light as possible and accurate set to the desired line
• It should rest on a firm base and be levelled on a plane surface
• The formwork material should be able to withstand exposure to high temperatures
• Should have superior workmanship and frequent inspections

Types of formwork used in concrete construction

The types of formwork systems that can be used for the construction of a concrete slab mainly depends upon important factors: the type of the structure and the material to be used. The different types of materials that can be used are timber, steel, aluminium, plastic, and concrete. Some of the different types of formwork are beam formwork, column formwork, slab formwork and concrete formwork to name a few. 

Concrete Formwork

Concrete formwork is one of the most preferred options in modern construction. This is because concrete is a virtually indestructible material when reinforced, making it the perfect choice for major construction projects, and even complex, detailed structures. When it comes to formwork, construction businesses should select the type most suited to the structure to be built. While there are many formwork systems available such as cassette, climbing, flexible, slipform and horizontal formwork, the last option is a commonly used one.

Horizontal Formwork

As mentioned earlier, businesses can choose from a myriad of options when it comes to formwork materials. However, the smaller, lighter horizontal formwork system uses aluminium, steel, and fibreglass. It consists of a series of preformed interconnected falsework bay and decking panels that are generally used in the construction of slabs. Being a lighter and safer option, this system is more ideal compared to traditional options. 

Want more information about concrete formwork construction? Contact us at Bygging Uddemann for a quote.