Different Materials Used for Formwork - Advantages and ...

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A Formwork is a temporary structure used as mold for the original structure. There are different materials available to construct the formwork. Formwork Material is selected depending upon many factors like cost, requirement, type of structure etc.

Different Formwork Materials

Different formwork materials and their advantages and disadvantages are discussed below.

1. Timber
2. Plywood
3. Steel
4. Aluminum
5. Plastics
6. Magnesium
7. Fabric

1. Timber as Formwork Material

Timber is the most commonly used material for formwork. Timber logs, lumber etc. are used as bracing members from ancient times. So, the Timber formwork is also called as traditional formwork. It is most economical material used for formwork. This is used in sites as formwork material for number of years so, the method of constructing timber framework is well known to the workers.

Advantages

• Timber can be cut into any required size easily.
• Timber is light in weight and it can be handled easily.
• Timber has good thermal resistance which prevents the damage of concrete in colder regions.
• It is easy to understand the construction method of timber formwork hence, skilled workers are not necessary.
• It is easy to replace the damaged parts of timber forms.
• Timber formwork can be easily dismantled.

Disadvantages

• Dry timber may absorb water from wet concrete which result in the reduction of strength in concrete structure.
• Wet timber having high moisture content compress the wet concrete and forms cracks in the structure and grout may leaked through joints when shrinking occurs.
• Timber forms have limited usage. So, they cannot be useful for more times.

A Formwork is a temporary structure used as mold for the original structure. There are different materials available to construct the formwork. Formwork Material is selected depending upon many factors like cost, requirement, type of structure etc.Different formwork materials and their advantages and disadvantages are discussed below.Timber is the most commonly used material for formwork. Timber logs, lumber etc. are used as bracing members from ancient times. So, the Timber formwork is also called as traditional formwork. It is most economical material used for formwork. This is used in sites as formwork material for number of years so, the method of constructing timber framework is well known to the workers.

Fig 1 : Timber Formwork

2. Plywood as Formwork Material

Plywood which is a manufactured product of timber is also used for formworks. It consists number of veneer sheets or plies in layers. Now a days, the use of plywood formwork increases especially for facing panels. The reason behind it is that the plywood formwork provides smooth finish when compared to normal timber formwork. Hence, finishing cost may reduce by the use of plywood. For formwork, special type of plywood called exterior plywood is used. The veneer sheets of exterior plywood are bonded with strong adhesive to make it watertight. The plywood boards are available in thicknesses from 7mm to 32mm. In general, plywood of size x and 18mm thick boards are sufficient for most of the works. For curved structures, special types of plywood with sufficient thickness are also available.

Advantages

• Plywood can also be cut into required size easily.
• Plywood Strong, durable and light in weight.
• Provides smooth finish on the surface.
• Very Large size plywood sheets are available which makes the construction of formwork quicker and easier.
• Curved formworks can also be prepared using plywood.
• When compared to timber, it gives more number of reuses.

Disadvantages

• When compared to timber it is costly.
• Thin plywood sheets cannot sustain the weight of concrete they may bow out if proper thickness is not provided.

Plywood which is a manufactured product of timber is also used for formworks. It consists number of veneer sheets or plies in layers. Now a days, the use of plywood formwork increases especially for facing panels. The reason behind it is that the plywood formwork provides smooth finish when compared to normal timber formwork. Hence, finishing cost may reduce by the use of plywood. For formwork, special type of plywood called exterior plywood is used. The veneer sheets of exterior plywood are bonded with strong adhesive to make it watertight. The plywood boards are available in thicknesses from 7mm to 32mm. In general, plywood of size x and 18mm thick boards are sufficient for most of the works. For curved structures, special types of plywood with sufficient thickness are also available.

Fig 2 : Plywood Formwork

3. Steel as Formwork Material

Steel can also be used as formwork material. It is very costly but it can be used for more number of times than others. They provides excellent finish to the concrete surfaces. For mass strictures like dams, bridges, etc. steel from work is so strong and safe.

Advantages

• Steel forms are durable and stronger.
• Provides uniform and smooth surface finish to the structure.
• Great reusability.
• Easy to fix the formwork and also easy to dismantle.

Disadvantages

• Cost is very much higher.
• It is heavy in weight and requires lifting equipment for large structure formworks.
• Corrosion will occur when there is a frequent contact with water.
• The size and shapes of forms available are limited.

Steel can also be used as formwork material. It is very costly but it can be used for more number of times than others. They provides excellent finish to the concrete surfaces. For mass strictures like dams, bridges, etc. steel from work is so strong and safe.

Fig 3 : Steel Formwork

4. Aluminum as Formwork Material

Aluminum formwork is used often for pre-fabricated formworks. It is getting more popular because of its light weight and good strength. It requires fewer supports and ties.

Advantages

• Easy to fix and easy to dismantle.
• It can be handled easily because of its light weight.
• It can be re-used for many times.
• The walls and slabs of structures can be casted simultaneously.
• Monolithic crack free structures can be built using aluminum formwork.

Disadvantages

• When the load reaches its maximum limit, the lighter sections may deflect.
• Architectural modifications are not possible when aluminum formwork is used.

Aluminum formwork is used often for pre-fabricated formworks. It is getting more popular because of its light weight and good strength. It requires fewer supports and ties.

Fig 4 : Aluminum Formwork

5.Plastics as Formwork Material

Plastic is another type of formwork material which is used for small concrete structures or for complex portions of the structure. It is light in weight and durable for long periods. For complicated concrete structures, Glass reinforced plastics (GRP) and vacuum formed plastics are used.

Advantages

• Plastic is light in weight and can be easily handled.
• Formwork for complex shaped structures can be prepared easily.
• Good resistant against water.
• The damaged plastic sheets can be recycled and useful to make new sheets.
• Good quality plastic has great re-usability.

Disadvantages

• Plastic is weak against heat.
• It is costly material.
• It does not take much load when compared with others.

Plastic is another type of formwork material which is used for small concrete structures or for complex portions of the structure. It is light in weight and durable for long periods. For complicated concrete structures, Glass reinforced plastics (GRP) and vacuum formed plastics are used.

Fig 5 : Plastic Formwork

6.Magnesium as Formwork Material

Magnesium is another metal element which is used for formwork. Magnesium is not directly used for formwork and is used with the combination of oxygen atoms which forms magnesium oxide, usually called magnesia or MgO. Magnesium oxide boards or MgO boards are famous in some countries because of their multiple applications. MgO boards are available in required sizes and grades.

Advantages

• Mgo boards are light in weight and easy to handle.
• They are fire proof and waterproof.
• Bio friendly boards cause no harm to the environment.
• They are strong to resist heavy loads.

Disadvantages

• When Mgo boards meet wet concrete, the magnesium chloride present in MgO boards may dissolve and cause corrosion to the reinforcement.
• Skilled supervision is required for installation.
• MgO boards cannot sustain in humid conditions. They absorb moisture easily from atmosphere so, they are called as crying boards.

 

Magnesium is another metal element which is used for formwork. Magnesium is not directly used for formwork and is used with the combination of oxygen atoms which forms magnesium oxide, usually called magnesia or MgO. Magnesium oxide boards or MgO boards are famous in some countries because of their multiple applications. MgO boards are available in required sizes and grades.

Fig 6 : Magnesium Oxide Boards

7.Fabric as Formwork Material

Fabric formwork is the modern technology in construction sector. Fabric can be mold into any required shapes which makes it more famous formwork for architectural purposes.

Advantages

• It weighs very less when compared to any other formwork material.
• It is economical.
• Any complex shape can be constructed using fabric formwork.
• It is waterproof.
• Doesn&#;t affect the concrete properties.
• Easy to removal after the hardening of concrete.

Disadvantages

• For installation skilled workers are required to form perfect and required complex shapes.

Fabric formwork is the modern technology in construction sector. Fabric can be mold into any required shapes which makes it more famous formwork for architectural purposes.

Fig  7 : Installation of Fabric Formwork

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction technology, aluminum formwork stands out as a groundbreaking solution, transforming the way buildings rise against the skyline.

This lightweight yet robust alternative to traditional formwork materials like wood and steel is gaining traction for its remarkable benefits, from accelerating project timelines to ensuring a superior finish.

However, like any innovative tool, it comes with its own set of challenges.

In this detailed exploration, we will delve into the multifaceted advantages and potential drawbacks of aluminum formwork, offering a balanced perspective that could redefine your next construction project.

Whether you&#;re a seasoned contractor or a budding architect, understanding these nuances could be crucial in steering your project decisions towards efficiency and excellence. Join us as we unpack the complex yet captivating world of aluminum formwork, a material that promises to shape the future of construction.

What Is Aluminum Formwork?

Aluminum formwork is a revolutionary construction system that streamlines the process of building concrete structures. Made primarily from high-strength aluminum alloys, this type of formwork is celebrated for its efficiency and effectiveness in forming a mold for wet concrete, which then hardens into structural components like walls and floors.

What sets aluminum formwork apart is its remarkable ability to be easily assembled and disassembled, offering a reusable solution that not only speeds up construction but also minimizes waste. Its precision-engineered panels and modules can be adjusted to fit various architectural layouts, allowing seamless adaptability from simple residential buildings to complex commercial structures.

Embracing aluminum formwork means embracing a future where construction is quicker, cleaner, and more cost-effective.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Aluminium Formwork:

Discover the pros and cons of Aluminum Formwork: Quick assembly & reusability vs. higher upfront costs & limited adaptability. Let&#;s weigh the options!

Certainly! Here&#;s a table format outlining the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum formwork:

Advantages of Aluminum FormworkDisadvantages of Aluminum FormworkLightweight, facilitating handling and transportationHigher initial costs compared to traditional materialsHigh reusability, reducing waste and costsComplex repair and modification processesSpeeds up construction timelines with quick assemblyLimited adaptability to complex architectural designsProvides precise finish, reducing the need for further plasteringThermal conductivity may affect concrete curingEnvironmentally friendly, with reduced waste and recyclable materialRequires skilled labor for optimal utilizationOffers safety features with reduced risks during handlingAvailability may be limited compared to other materials

Advantages of Aluminium Formwork:

A. Lightweight Nature:

• &#; Easier handling and transportation.
• &#; Reduced need for heavy machinery on site.

B. High Reusability

• &#; Long lifespan due to material durability.
• &#; Economic benefits from multiple uses.

C. Speed of Construction

• &#; Faster assembly and disassembly.
• &#; Shortens project timelines significantly.

D. Accuracy and Quality

• &#; Provides a smooth finish, reducing the need for further plastering.
• &#; Consistency in quality across different projects.

E. Environmentally Friendly

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• &#; Reduced waste through reuse.
• &#; Recyclable material at the end of its lifecycle.

F. Safety Features

• &#; Reduced risks during handling due to lighter weight.
• &#; Stability in the construction process.

Disadvantages of Aluminium Formwork

A. Initial Cost

• &#; Higher upfront costs compared to traditional formwork materials.

B. Handling and Repair

• &#; Requires careful handling to avoid damage.
• &#; More complex to repair if damaged.

C. Adaptability Issues

• &#; Less adaptable to complex architectural features.
• &#; Difficulties in modifications and adjustments on site.

D. Thermal Conductivity

• &#; Potential issues with heat transfer affecting concrete curing.

E. Skill Requirement

• &#; Need for skilled labor to optimize the benefits of aluminum formwork.

F. Availability

• &#; Possible issues with sourcing and availability compared to more common materials.

What is Aluminium Form material?

Aluminum form material is a cutting-edge construction solution crafted from high-strength aluminum alloys. It serves as a mold for wet concrete, shaping it into walls, floors, and other structural elements.

Renowned for its lightweight yet durable properties, aluminum formwork offers easy assembly, precise finishes, and environmental benefits through its reusability. Embrace the future of construction with aluminum form material, where efficiency meets sustainability.

What Is Aluminum Formwork System:

The aluminum formwork system revolutionizes construction with its lightweight, reusable panels and precise engineering. By streamlining the process of molding concrete, it accelerates project timelines while ensuring a high-quality finish.

Its adaptability to various architectural designs makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of construction projects. With aluminum formwork, builders can achieve efficiency, durability, and sustainability, ushering in a new era of construction excellence.

Aluminium Formwork Product List:

The Aluminium Formwork Product List encompasses a comprehensive array of cutting-edge construction materials tailored to meet the demands of modern building projects. Engineered with precision and durability in mind, this product line features a diverse range of formwork components, including panels, beams, props, and accessories, all crafted from high-quality aluminium alloys.

These formwork elements are designed to facilitate swift assembly and disassembly, optimizing efficiency in construction processes. The product list also includes specialized formwork solutions for various structural configurations, ensuring versatility in accommodating different architectural designs.

With a commitment to sustainability, these aluminium formwork products not only enhance construction speed but also contribute to reduced material waste and increased reusability, making them an eco-friendly choice for contemporary construction projects.

Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial applications, the Aluminium Formwork Product List stands as a testament to innovation and excellence in modern construction methodologies.

FAQ Related Aluminium Formwork

Is aluminium formwork better than steel formwork

Aluminum formwork is less durable, stiff, and powerful compare to steel formwork. Also compared to aluminium formwork, Steel formwork is less likely to distort and easier to modify to the needs of a specific project. If steel formwork needs to be changed, securing components in place to connectors with a hammer is usually a simple task.

What is Aluminium Formwork?

An aluminium formwork is a temporary structure of aluminium in construction industry for constructing a building structure such as walls, floors, beams, and staircases. It&#;s also a scheduling and control system for other construction trades including steel reinforcing, concrete installation, and mechanical and electrical conduits.

What is load Bearing Capacity of Aluminium Formwork?

The load bearing capacity of aluminium formwork is depending upon the quality of formwork material used and it is very between 50 to 60 Kn/M2.

Why is aluminium formwork use in Construction Work?

Aluminium formwork are Light in weight so it is easy to handle very precise, and very sturdy. It has a low average use-cost and can be used multiple times in a construction work. Integral extrusion forming is used in this formwork technology, which is very cost effective. Convenient and effective construction of this sort of formwork.

What is the life span of aluminium formwork?

The life span of Alauminium formwork is determined by how it is used and maintained, as seen in the excerpt below. It is a relatively new technique that saves money, time, and enhances building quality.

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