Formwork is a building form that can be permanent or temporary and determines the type of future monolithic structure.
The main purpose of the formwork is to give the design configuration of the liquid concrete mix. Formwork can be of various types, the use of one or another type depends on the configuration of the building being erected, the materials used, and even climatic conditions.
What are formwork structures?
Most often, these are prefabricated forms that are assembled at the construction site from various materials. Sometimes ready-made forms are used, which are assembled into a single structure, similar to the elements of a children’s designer. The main functions of the formwork:
- giving concrete structures design configurations;
- saving the specified dimensions;
- preservation of the spatial position of the cast monolith.
In some cases, formwork is used to give the cast surface a certain relief. Requirements for formwork used in construction:
- Strength. Forms must withstand the load exerted by the concrete mix.
- Deformation resistance. Assembled structures should not move apart or buckle after grouting.
- Resistance to aggressive environments. The surface of the molds must not corrode when in contact with a wet surface.
- Tightness. Forms should not allow leakage of concrete solution.
- Availability. Formwork systems should be assembled from inexpensive and available materials.
