Formworks are key in fast-paced, modern construction. They help shape and hold concrete during the setting process, which is critical for our desired outcomes. Choosing the right formwork means you can expect the results you want. However, if you believe that formwork is limited to single-use applications, think again. Modern advancements have transformed formwork into a reusable resource.
Several formwork types are designed for reuse without performance losses. The lifespan of formwork largely depends on how well it is handled and maintained. It is also based on other factors like material and climate conditions it is being used.
This guide will give you a deep insight into formwork’s lifecycle and how often it can be re-use. Additionally, we’ll also group different formwork types and offer ideas on the right way to care for and keep them in top shape.
What are Formworks and Types of Formwork For High-rise Buildings?
Formworks are temporary mold structures that are used during the curing process. It lets wet concrete set and turn them into desirable shapes and sizes.
Formworks are used till wet concrete hardens and can bear its own weight. These are often used during the construction of walls, beams, columns, slabs, and roofs.
Moreover, formwork is very essential for modern construction as it helps in constructing precise structures and with that, it also ensures the safety, quality, and durability of the structure. This streamlines the construction process and makes it easier for contractors to save money and cut down on unnecessary time taken during assembling and disassembling formwork.
Types of Formworks Used for Buildings
Some common types of formwork include:
Timber Formwork:
The oldest and most conventional type of formwork. It is often used for smaller projects or structures with complex shapes due to its flexibility. Timber formwork is easy to handle and can be used easily to create complex and intricate designs. However, it has a shorter lifespan and can only be used a few times.
Steel Formwork:
It is a popular modular formwork system known for its durability. This type of formwork is more durable and can be used in large-scale projects, including high-rise buildings. It is cost-effective and can also be reused multiple times if managed properly.
Aluminum Formwork:
Aluminum formwork, which is similar to steel formwork, is also another type of modular formwork system. It is used in high-rise buildings because of its lightweight nature, which makes it much easier to assemble and handle. This makes them easy to transport to different floors in a high-rise building.
Plastic Formwork:
Plastic formworks are made from recycled plastics that are not just durable but are also resistant to water and chemicals. They are simple to use and can be used in simple and repetitive structures. They are also easy to clean and be rescued multiple times. It is also less costly compared to steel or aluminum formwork.
Other specialized types of formwork include climbing formwork and table formwork, which cater to specific construction needs.
How Many Times Formwork Can Be Reused?
The number of times formworks can be reused depends on several factors like type of materials, quality, and how well you are taking care of them.
- Timber Formworks: These can typically be used 3 to 5 times, as they absorb more moisture and may warp or degrade after multiple uses.
- Steel Formworks: These are highly durable and robust, allowing for reuse approximately 50 to 100 times or more, even in harsh conditions.
- Aluminum Formworks: These can generally be reused 20 to 30 times. Moreover, such types of formworks are easier to handle due to their lightweight nature.
- Plastic Formworks: Reusable around 10 to 15 times. However, they are not suitable for heavy applications as they are not so durable and may end up bending.
- Climbing Formworks: They can be reused as many times as you want; it is only if they are properly maintained and taken care of.
- Table Formworks: Typically reusable 30 times or more, depending on the material quality.
Factors Affecting the Lifecycle of Formwork Materials
Various factors affect the lifecycle of formwork materials, for instance,
Material Type:
Different materials have different durability and resistance levels, and some are more robust than others. Materials such as steel and aluminum can withstand harsh conditions easily, while timber does not withstand much.
Quality of Materials:
The lifespan of formwork materials also comes down to the quality you are using, high-quality formwork materials tend to perform way better than your low-grade formwork materials.
Exposure to Moisture and Humidity:
Continuous exposure to moisture and humidity also affects the longevity of your formwork. Long exposure to such elements leads to the weakening of formwork, and in some cases, it can lead to rot and mold.
Weight and Pressure:
The amount of weight and pressure also determine the lifespan of your formworks. Overloading often ends up with formwork bending or bulging out due to excessive pressure, thus leading to faster deterioration. Furthermore, vibration and sometimes sudden impact can also affect the durability of your formwork materials.
Wear and Tear:
With every use, your formwork begins to show signs of wear and tear. Hence, it is vital to maintain your formwork properly.
Maintenance and Handling:
Improper handling can also lead to damage that might have a significant impact on formwork’s reusability and durability.
Also Read More>> Importance of Formwork in Construction
How to Maintain Care About Formwork?
There are several ways to improve or extend the lifecycle of formwork:
- Conduct Routine Inspections: Regularly inspect formwork before and after each use to identify and address issues promptly.
- Thorough Cleaning: Once formworks are used, cleaning cement residues is important. Clean your formwork to remove any cement remnants, oil, and debris. Using non-corrosive cleaning agents is recommended as it would help in avoiding potential damages that could happen during the cleaning process.
- Proper Storage: Store formwork correctly to avoid warping, crushing, or other forms of damage. Ensure the storage area is dry and free from excessive moisture.
- Training Workers: It is essential to educate your workers on using the proper handling techniques that would prevent any mishaps from happening.
Conclusion
In short, formworks are the backbone of the construction sector. It has made it easier for workers to mold and shape concrete. One of the key factors of formwork is understanding how long it can last. There are various formworks that are used in modern construction like timber, aluminum, steel, plastic, climbing, and slab. Each one has its own lifecycle period. Their advantages and drawbacks determine their usability and life cycle. Hence, investing in correct formwork is important so is understanding their life expectancy.
Nova Formworks, a leading manufacturer of plastic shuttering panels in Bangalore, provides long-lasting, durable formwork solutions to meet the demands of today’s construction needs. Their plastic formworks of great quality are reusable, simple to move around, and don’t easily get worn out. These formworks are a perfect pick if you want to make your construction work more efficient and less harmful to the environment.
By choosing Nova Formworks, construction professionals can enhance the longevity and performance of their formwork systems.
