514-742-7568 What are the qualities of a good formwork?

What are the qualities of a good formwork?

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  • Groupe GEMCO
  • December 26 2022

A good form must be able to withstand the pressure of the concrete, be rigid and stable to guarantee precise dimensions, waterproof to prevent the concrete from flowing, have a smooth surface for a perfect surface finish and be safe for workers.

The main qualities of a good formwork

Resistance

The formwork must be strong enough to support the weight of the concrete and the stresses it experiences during the hardening phase. Formwork that flexes or warps can lead to cracks and loss of strength in the concrete structure.

Waterproofing

The formwork must be designed to prevent the leakage of concrete or the formation of air pockets which can weaken the structure.

Ease of assembly and disassembly

The formwork should be easy to assemble and disassemble to facilitate the construction process and to allow repeated use if necessary.

Dimensional accuracy

The formwork must be designed with precise dimensions to ensure a smooth and level finish of the concrete surface.

Sustainability

The formwork must be durable enough to withstand wear and moisture, and to allow repeated use if necessary.

Adaptability

The formwork must be adaptable to different types of shapes and surfaces to allow great flexibility in design and construction.

The right formwork texture

The surface condition of the concrete is an important element in the quality and the final appearance of the concrete structure. To achieve this, it is important that the inner surface of the formwork is smooth and smooth to achieve a clean, flawless concrete surface. Improperly designed or poorly prepared formwork can leave marks, scratches or dents on the concrete surface, which can affect the quality and appearance of the finished structure.

It is therefore essential that the formwork is carefully prepared and that the interior surface is smooth, even and free of any dirt, grease or other contaminants which could affect the quality of the concrete surface. The formwork must also be strong enough to withstand the pressures exerted by the liquid concrete as it is poured, without warping or deforming and thus affecting the quality of the surface condition of the concrete.

Formwork safety

When placing formwork, it is important that worker safety is a top priority. The formwork should be designed to provide sufficient stability and strength to support the weight of the concrete, but also to withstand vibration and shock that may occur during placement and pouring of the concrete.

Workers must also be able to work safely around and on the formwork. It is therefore important to take into account potential risks, such as falls from heights or injuries caused by sharp or pointed elements, and to provide appropriate protective measures, such as guardrails, scaffolding or safety nets. security.

Finally, when it is time to remove the formwork, it must be done safely to avoid any risk of accident. The formwork must be removed carefully, avoiding any damage or impact on the concrete structure, and using the appropriate personal protective equipment and tools.

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