Wall formwork: type and function

Wall Formwork: Types and Functions

In-Depth Overview of Wall Formwork Uses, Types, and Functions

Formwork systems serve as essential molds for concrete structures, providing the necessary shape until the concrete sets. In this article, we will explore wall formwork specifically tailored for constructing pillars, walls, columns, piles, pulvini, and bridge abutments. This discussion encompasses various types of vertical construction involving the placement of fresh concrete.

Types of Wall Formwork

Wall formwork can be classified into several categories:

• Traditional
• Prefabricated Steel and/or Aluminium
• Prefabricated Timber
• Prefabricated Plastic

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Traditional Wall Formwork

The traditional wall formwork system is assembled on-site using wooden panels and steel spacers. Although this system offers flexibility, it requires longer lead times and incurs high expenses related to loading, unloading, and overall progress time, making it less economical, especially for large formwork areas.

Prefabricated Steel and/or Aluminium Wall Formwork

Steel formwork comprises modular elements that vary in size and are assembled with closing and clamping accessories. This prefab steel formwork is further divided into three categories based on the casting pressure:

• High-pressure: for casting pressures greater than 70 kN/m²
• Mid-pressure: for casting pressures around 60 kN/m²
• Low-pressure: for casting pressures less than or equal to 50 kN/m²

The pressure that the concrete exerts on the formwork panel is influenced by the height and consistency of the concrete. Benefits of this formwork system include:

• Easy assembly and disassembly
• Smooth and sleek finishing
• Faster assembly and disassembly
• Capability for handling large surfaces

Prefabricated Timber and Plastic Wall Formwork

Timber formwork is commonly used for achieving smooth fair-faced concrete but tends to be heavy with a longer pre-assembly time. Conversely, prefabricated plastic formwork is lightweight and easy to handle; however, it can be challenging to assemble due to numerous connections requiring many tie rods and may support limited casting pressures.

Summary of Advantages and Disadvantages

The table below outlines the advantages and disadvantages associated with each type of wall formwork:

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