Formwork Construction – Types and Advantages

Formwork is a necessary element of construction in which a permanent or temporary mold is used into which concrete is poured and stiffens. Formwork is well around the world as the foundation of construction and has been used for thousands of years to create structures of various shapes and sizes. Numerous service companies use multiple kinds of formwork.

Conventional Timber Formwork

Timber formwork, also known as conventional formwork, is among the oldest forms of construction. Such a sort of formwork is typically constructed of timber or plywood. Although it can be rapidly generated and constructed on-site, it has a short lifespan and takes the opportunity to construct.

Formwork System Engineered

Engineered formwork is constructed of modular components with metal bars, generally made of steel or aluminum. Unlike conventional formwork, this can be quickly assembled with pins, clips, and screws.

Formwork in Concrete

It is one of the most extreme versions of formwork obtainable in many nations, including Australia. Concrete formwork structures are constructed on-site using insulated polystyrene foam to provide thermal vibrations, fire, and rat resistance.

Various Formwork Resources

1. Use of Timber as Formwork StuffBenefits
   • Timber can easily be cut to any required size.
   • Timber has excellent temperature tolerance, which keeps concrete from cracking in colder climates.
   • Because the construction method of timber formwork is simple, skilled people are not required.
   • It is simple to replace the damaged timber forms.
   • Timber formwork is simple to deconstruct.

   Drawbacks
   

   • Dry timber could absorb moisture from wet concrete, reducing the concrete structure’s strength.
   • Once wet timber with high humidity compresses wet concrete and forms gaps in the framework, grout could leak through joint surfaces.
   • Timber forms have a limited appeal. As a result, they cannot be used for anything else.
2. Use of Steel in Formwork ConstructionBenefits
   • Steel forms are more robust and long-lasting.
   • The framework has a unified and smooth surface quality.
   • Excellent reusability.
   • The formwork is simple to install and disassemble. 

   Drawbacks

   • The price is significantly higher.
   • Building and engineering formworks, it is bulky and needs lifting equipment.
   • Corrosion happens when metals are exposed to water regularly.
3. Formwork Material: PlywoodBenefits
   • Plywood could also be simply cut to the size needed.
   • Plywood is Sturdy, long-lasting, and lightweight.
   • Offers a smooth surface finish and is reusable.
   • Large plywood sheets are accessible, making formwork construction faster and more efficient.

   Drawbacks
   

   • It is more expensive than wood.
4. Use of Aluminum in Formwork ConstructionBenefits
   • Simple to assemble and disassemble.
   • With its lightweight, it is easily managed.
   • It can be reused numerous times.
   • Buildings’ walls and planks can be placed at the same time.

   Drawbacks
   

   • When aluminum formwork has been used, architectural adjustments are not possible.
5. Using Plastic in Formwork ConstructionBenefits
   • Formwork for complicated shape constructions could be prepared directly.
   • Water resistance is excellent.
   • Damaged sheets can be used again to create new sheets.

   Drawbacks

   • Plastic is heat-sensitive.
6. Magnesium Used in Formwork ConstructionBenefits
   • MgO boards are lightweight and simple to use.
   • They are both fire and water-resistant.
   • Bio-friendly boards do not harm the climate.
   • They are sturdy enough to endure large objects.

   Drawbacks

   • When MgO boards come into contact with wet concrete, the magnesium chloride revealed in MgO boards may disperse and cause a corrosion process.
   • Setup necessitates expert oversight.
7. Fabric Used in Formwork ConstructionBenefits

1. • It is significantly lighter than any other formwork substance.
   • It is cost-effective.
   • Fabric formwork could be used to create any unique structure.
   • After the concrete has toughened, it is easy to take out.

Summary

Traditional Timber Formwork, Designed and built Formwork systems, and Concrete Formwork are among the most common forms of formwork. All these are used relying on the project’s purpose and budget. Formwork is still essential in today’s construction because it speeds up and reduces costs.