Formwork is a classic structure in construction projects that cannot be ignored, especially when creating complex systems. At the same time, formwork is also vital for construction because it can be made from different materials. In addition, it can also be reused, depending on the type of materials in the structure for concrete. By the way, a formwork is the structure frame on or in which mixed concrete can be poured to take the desired shape. Click here to read more about the Classification of Formowk based on the shape.
In the end, the formwork can be removed when the concrete solidifies and takes the final shape. Below is the detail of the importance of formwork, construction steps. And most importantly, the classification according to the form of the formwork.
Classification of formwork according to the shape
There is a classification of formwork according to the material we use to make them. We can also describe formwork according to the structure’s condition, which is the option below. What are the peculiar differences between these types of formwork in construction projects?
Column formwork
A column formwork refers to the type of formwork that you make from timber or metallic panels. In this type of formwork, the box is often fixed in a good position by the steel columns clamps and the yoke that fastens them together. Wooden props may support these braces.
Beam formwork
The beam formwork is that which comes with an open-drawn section. It is not close to the top while providing support for the structure with restraints on the sides.
Slab formwork
A slab formwork requires a large surface area of formwork laid from beam to beam in the proper context. Also, the vertical support can be made of timber and metal struts. At the same time, it may contain some flexible props, which are essential for levelling the surface.
Wall construction formwork
The wall construction formwork has a widespread pattern and form, especially compared with the other concrete structures. The reason is that the fundamental forces are too low against it. Moreover, the panel on both sides has been put in their rightful positions. In comparison, it uses the tie as a spacer between them. At the same time, the wall support systems are usually in a slope form up to the satisfied level of intervals.
Steps of Formwork Construction
We have considered how vital formwork is to the construction when it involves the Below are some of the basic procedures for making a durable formwork.
Propping and Centering
The propping and centring process involves building the form to withstand all kinds of dead and living loads.
Shuttering
The shuttering process has to do with building a firm and effective formwork that can cater to the construction project’s needs. This firmly built structure can also be hung effectively on both the vertical and horizontal sides of the shape of the entire system. However, it depends on the portion of the structure that requires the formwork.
Provision of camber
You can also counteract the effects of deflection. Meanwhile, it is desirable for an upward camber in the horizontal members of the effective concrete structure. At the same time, it must have a long spanned member.
Cleaning and surface treatment
The cleaning and surface treatment process involve tightening the formworks’ joints to remove every possibility of leakage. This way, the cement grout must not contain any unwanted contaminants from the surface of the formwork.
Importance of Formwork in Construction
What is the importance of formwork, and what roles do the formwork play in the construction process? Below are some of the most critical aspects of using formwork in construction projects.
Time management
Using formwork in construction projects can reduce the time it takes to make the floor-to-floor construction cycle. Similarly, it can indirectly reduce the cost of the project as well.
Safety
Integrating formworks into the modern construction system can also provide a lot of safety for the work. In that, the formworks serve as a means of bearing loads of weight. In that way, the construction project remains solid and secure for a long time. In addition to basic safety, formwork is responsible for the stability and accessibility of the system. The workers can also feel safer with the formwork in the entire work project by providing the right platforms.
Quality
The quality of the formwork is an integral part of it, which is about the type of formwork. Also, it determines the surface finishing of the final concrete output in the project. When the formwork also carries the improved surface finish, there is a good chance that an aluminium formwork will exclude any need for further plastering. Otherwise, the RCC surface would have needed extra plastering.
Project Planning
The aspect of project planning is much easier for the adequate knowledge of formwork management of the entire structure. Meanwhile, you can also ensure a positive impact of the formwork resources, a compelling set movement and minimizing sluggishness. In addition, it can also maximize reappearance and reduce costs. In other words, formwork helps to manage better time and the contribution of the expenses to the overall project process.
Human resources
In terms of human resources, formwork requires some specialist level from the human resources working on the project. At the same time, the formwork allows for proper skill assessment, training and effectiveness of the human resources factor of the project. It is also easier to track their level of performance to make an appropriate report of their contribution. Another reason for monitoring their performance is to maximize the labour factor of production.
Capital management
Formwork is an essential aspect of a company’s capital expenditure because it becomes a part of the company asset. In addition, formwork materials are transferrable from one project to another, depending on the fabric of the formwork itself. Therefore, it is essential to practice safety precautions and management strategies to optimize cost and time effects on the project. The areas that require such focus include accounting, loss mitigation, physical verification and other essential aspects for a successful project.