Different types of formwork design

Formwork is a major process in the skeleton stage of building; it is used during the pouring of concrete to help hold the liquid form of the concrete in place as it sets, there is a several types of formwork design exist, it is could be plywood forms or metal forms, which is used as temporary forms or permanent ones.  But it may be better to use slip forming for some large projects. Choosing the best formwork design starts with determining what type of project you will be undertaking. Very large projects may require a formwork carpenter who can make the best assessment as to the best pouring process. Small projects at home can generally be done with plywood forms.

Watch this video to see the difference between traditional and modern formwork system

traditional wall wood formwork

For small projects, consider formwork design that is simple and easily managed. It is usually okay to create concrete structures in sections if the finished structures will not be exceptionally large; very large structures are often poured continuously to avoid creating seams that can lead to weakness. This process is known as slip forming and it requires a large amount of machinery and manpower. The amateur concrete worker will not use a slip form formwork design, since the execution will be exceptionally complex. Instead, small projects can be poured in sections, and the forms can be made of plywood or steel.

Plywood forms are usually made from a specific type of plywood that is resistant to water damage and pressure of concrete. The forms are held in place by temporary supports such as rods and connecting pins. These components are collectively known as false work. Wood is lightweight and easy to manipulate, making it a good formwork material for most small projects, but it can bend or warp, which means that we could not have a completely flat surfaces when using such forms. So when this is important to have flat surface, steel forms should be used. These are heavier, more expensive, and difficult to transport, but they will create a flat surface every time.

The main types of modern formwork systems in use now are:

• Table form/flying form
• System column formwork
• Horizontal panel
• Slip form
• Tunnel form

  

The modern formwork systems listed above are mostly modular, which are designed for speed and efficiency. They are designed to provide increased accuracy and minimize waste in construction and most have enhanced health and safety features built-in.so choosing the best formwork design will often depend on the size, shape, and complexity of the project. It may be easiest to use permanent forms that will stay in place after the concrete sets, since it may be too difficult in removing the forms from exceptionally complex shapes. In other instances, removing the forms is not a difficult process and it will allow the forms to be reused for other projects. Choosing permanent forms can be advantageous for pouring complex shapes that need to be uniform when repeated; the same form can be reproduced easily to provide uniformity throughout a structure.