Abstract:
Formwork contributes a major part in the construction industry and has a high impact of the total cost in most of the building construction activities. It often ranges from 40 to 60% of the total cost of the construction work. They mold the concrete to the required size and shape while controlling its position and alignment.
Timber, Metals and Plastics with different types, grades and specifications are materials used in fabricating formworks.
Formwork System can be classified as Vertical Formwork (Column and Wall) and Horizontal Formwork (Slab and Beam). A formwork system includes the mold or sheathing as well as supporting members, joists and stringers that act as primary and secondary beams, hardware, and necessary bracing.
The possible loads acting on formwork are Vertical, Horizontal and Lateral loads. Vertical loads are usually associated with the dead load and the live load .External forces such as wind exert horizontal loads on the forms. Internal pressures on vertical formwork result from the liquid or semi-liquid behaviour of the fresh concrete.
This research presents the principles and techniques for analysis, design and construction of formwork for concrete structures. The selection and effective use of formwork also dominate the success of a project in terms of speed, quality and dimensional accuracy of the final product.
