FORM WORK ADRCC

Introduction: Formwork is a temporary structure or mold used in

construction to support and shape concrete until it hardens and gains
enough strength to support itself. It provides the necessary support,
containment, and shape required for concrete placement. Formwork is an
essential component of the construction process, ensuring the integrity
and quality of concrete structures.
Requirements of Good Formwork:
1. Strength and Stability: Formwork should be able to withstand the
weight of the concrete and other loads without excessive deflection
or deformation.
2. Durability: Formwork should be able to withstand the repetitive use
and exposure to weather conditions without significant
deterioration.
3. Rigidity: Formwork should maintain its shape and prevent bulging
or distortion during the concrete pouring and setting process.
4. Imperviousness: Formwork should prevent leakage of excess water
from the concrete mixture.
5. Easy Stripping: Formwork should allow for easy removal without
damaging the concrete surface.
6. Dimensional Accuracy: Formwork should maintain the desired
shape, size, and alignment of the concrete structure.
7. Economy: Formwork should be cost-effective and reusable to
minimize construction expenses.
Materials for Forms:
1. Timber: Timber is commonly used for formwork due to its
availability, ease of handling, and flexibility in shaping. It is
economical, but it may warp or shrink.
2. Plywood: Plywood sheets are frequently used to create formwork.
They provide a smooth finish, are reusable, and offer good strength
and stability.

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3. Steel: Steel formwork is durable and can be reused multiple times.

It offers high strength, stability, and accuracy in formwork
construction.
4. Aluminum: Aluminum formwork is lightweight, durable, and
corrosion-resistant. It provides excellent finish quality and can be
reused.
5. Plastic: Plastic formwork systems are lightweight, modular, and
easy to assemble. They offer good surface finish and are suitable for
repetitive use.
Choice of Formwork: The selection of formwork depends on various
factors such as project requirements, budget, construction method, and
time constraints. The choice of formwork should consider the type of
structure, architectural requirements, and the availability of materials and
equipment.
Loads on Formwork: Formwork is subjected to various loads during
construction, including the weight of fresh concrete, reinforcement,
construction equipment, and workers. Additionally, lateral pressure
exerted by the concrete, wind loads, and vibrations must be considered.
Permissible Stresses for Timber: The permissible stresses for timber
formwork are determined based on the species and grade of the timber.
The stresses are typically limited to ensure the structural integrity and
safety of the formwork.
Design of Formwork: Formwork design involves determining the size,
shape, and arrangement of formwork components to ensure structural
stability and the desired concrete finish. The design considers factors
such as formwork material, formwork pressure, and the geometry of the
structure.
Shuttering for Columns: Column formwork, also known as shuttering, is
designed to support the vertical concrete elements during construction. It
is typically made using vertical and horizontal formwork elements,

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bracing, and ties to maintain the shape and alignment of the column until
the concrete sets.
Shuttering for Slabs and Beams: Slab and beam formwork is designed to
support horizontal concrete elements. It includes supporting members
such as props, beams, and panels that provide the required structural
support and shape for the slab or beam until it gains sufficient strength.
Erection of Formwork: Formwork erection involves assembling and
positioning the formwork components according to the design
requirements. It includes the installation of vertical and horizontal
formwork elements, bracing, and tying systems to ensure stability and
accuracy.
Action Prior to and During Concreting: Formwork refers to the temporary
structure or mold that is used to shape and support freshly poured
concrete until it becomes self-supporting. The formwork system plays a
crucial role in ensuring the stability, accuracy, and quality of the concrete
structure. Here are the actions typically taken prior to and during
concreting with regards to formwork:
Design and Planning:
Before starting the construction process, formwork design and planning
are essential. This involves determining the formwork system to be used,
considering factors such as structural requirements, loadings, concrete
mix, and construction sequence.
Material Inspection: Prior to assembling the formwork, the materials to
be used, such as timber, plywood, steel, or aluminum, should be
inspected for any defects or damage. This ensures that the formwork will
be structurally sound and capable of withstanding the loads imposed by
the concrete.
Formwork Assembly: The formwork components are assembled on-site
according to the predetermined design and layout. Care should be taken

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to ensure that the formwork is correctly aligned, leveled, and securely

fastened to prevent any movement or deformation during the pouring of
concrete.
Formwork Reinforcement: Depending on the size and complexity of the
concrete structure, additional reinforcement may be required within the
formwork to provide stability. This can include the installation of vertical
and horizontal bracing, tie rods, walers, or strongbacks to resist the lateral
pressure exerted by the wet concrete.
Formwork Cleaning and Treatment: Before concreting, the formwork
surfaces that will come into contact with the concrete should be cleaned
thoroughly to remove any debris, dirt, or previous concrete residue.
Additionally, a suitable release agent or formwork coating may be
applied to facilitate the easy removal of the formwork after the concrete
has cured.
Concrete Pouring: Once the formwork is in place and prepared, the
concrete pouring process can begin. It is crucial to control the rate and
method of pouring to minimize the risk of formwork displacement or
damage. Vibrators may be used to ensure proper consolidation of the
concrete and eliminate any air pockets.
Monitoring and Maintenance: Throughout the concreting process, the
formwork should be continuously monitored to check for any signs of
deformation, movement, or failure. Any necessary adjustments or repairs
should be made promptly to maintain the integrity of the formwork
system.
Curing and Stripping: After the concrete has been poured, it undergoes
the curing process to gain strength and durability. The formwork should
not be removed until the concrete has reached sufficient strength to
support its self-weight and any additional loads. The stripping of
formwork is typically done systematically, following a planned sequence,
to avoid sudden load redistribution on the structure.

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Striking of forms :
1. The striking of forms involves carefully dismantling the formwork
system without damaging the concrete or the surrounding
structures. This process may include removing braces, support
beams, panels, and any other components used in the formwork
system.
2. It is important to wait for the concrete to reach the required strength
before striking the forms to ensure the structural integrity of the
concrete element. The time required for the concrete to cure and
gain strength depends on various factors such as the type of
concrete mix, ambient conditions, and the size and complexity of
the concrete element. Engineering specifications and guidelines are
followed to determine the appropriate time for striking the forms.
3. By striking the forms, the construction team can free up the
formwork for reuse on other parts of the project, thereby increasing
efficiency and productivity in the construction process.
Recent developments in form work:
1. Modular and reusable formwork: Traditional formwork is often
made from wood, which is relatively inexpensive but requires
significant labor and may not be reusable. However, there has been
a growing trend towards modular formwork systems made from
materials like aluminum, steel, or plastic. These systems are
designed for easy assembly, disassembly, and reusability, leading to
increased efficiency and cost savings in construction projects.
2. Engineered formwork systems: Engineers and manufacturers
continue to develop sophisticated formwork systems that are
custom-designed for specific projects. These systems may
incorporate advanced materials, such as fiber-reinforced plastics or
composites, to enhance strength and durability while reducing
weight. Additionally, computer-aided design (CAD) and building
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information modeling (BIM) technologies are being used to

optimize formwork designs and improve accuracy.
3. Climbing formwork and self-climbing formwork: Climbing
formwork systems are used for constructing tall vertical structures,
such as high-rise buildings or bridge piers. These systems allow the
formwork to be incrementally raised or climbed up the structure as
the concrete is poured and cured. Self-climbing formwork, also
known as jumpform, is a variation of climbing formwork that uses
hydraulic or mechanical systems to automatically lift the formwork.
These systems can significantly speed up construction and increase
safety.
4. 3D printing of formwork: Additive manufacturing or 3D printing
technology has been explored as a potential method for fabricating
formwork. Using 3D printers, complex and customized formwork
structures can be created, potentially reducing the need for manual
labor and increasing design flexibility. While still in its early stages,
this technology shows promise for the future of formwork
construction.