Types of Formwork: Why Steel is a Good Choice
Formwork entails the design and manufacturing of moulds into which concrete is poured. The ideal moulds offer sufficient pressure resistance and optimal support to the concrete. The structures must be sturdy enough to ensure the formations retain their shapes, even with the heavy concrete poured into the moulds. Exact sizing is essential as is the type of material from which these moulds are made.
The types, based on materials for the moulds, are briefly introduced below. Formwork based on materials includes:
- Lumber or timber mould structures
- Plywood mould structures
- Steel mould structures
Lumber
The timber used in creating the moulds must meet the requirements of being lightweight, kiln-dried to ensure the structure keeps its shape and doesn’t crack, clear of any veins, and must have a smooth surface.
Plywood
Resin treated; the sheets are attached to wood-frame structures for pouring the concrete. Plywood is cheaper than lumber and can cover larger areas. These can also be reused several times.
However, both the mentioned materials have mostly been replaced by steel and other material-based formwork. Where lightweight moulds are essential, plywood can still be used, but other lightweight plastic-based materials can also work.
Steel
Thin metal plates form the panels, with the edges strengthened through angle steel. It’s possible to manufacture the steel moulds in bulk according to client-specified shapes and sizes. Due to the mass production possible for large projects, steel is one of the most popular materials for formwork.
These moulds can be used over and over. The moulds retain shape and integrity because of the steel strength and quality manufacturing. Unlike wooden types, steel moulds can be used for curved moulds with ease.
Steel is durable and easy to remove. Because of the structural strength of these moulds, you can expect more defined shapes and premium quality concrete surfaces. Steel moulds don’t suffer shrinkage and don’t deform, making these cost-effective solutions for large construction projects.
Advantages of outsourcing formwork
Cost savings to your company are one of the most important advantages of outsourcing the mould formation to Nhleko Scaffolding and Formwork. Because we’re able to manufacture highly precise moulds with superb structural integrity off-site, you benefit from time savings.
Also, outsourcing allows you to allocate other important tasks to your project crew. You save on time, which equals money savings as the project can be completed quicker. You also save on labour costs as the moulds are pre-manufactured and you don’t have to allocate workers to the task.
In addition, we commit to precision mould manufacturing, which means superb quality for every concrete cast. With improved quality, you can expect better concrete surfaces, requiring no or little smoothing.
Where to get more information
Get in touch to discuss your particular formwork needs. Our head office is in Kempton Park, enabling us to service the greater Gauteng area. Call us at (011) 025 9646 or direct your quote request to quotes@nhlekoscaff.co.za.