Circular wall formwork systems

Types of circular wall formwork systems

Circular wall formwork systems are essential for the construction of cylindrical structures. This includes columns, tanks, and silos. Here are the most common types:

• Removable Formwork

  These formwork systems can be used repeatedly in different construction sites. They are cost-effective for projects that require circular walls. The materials used to construct them include steel, aluminum, and plywood.

• Single-Use Formwork

  Single-use formwork is constructed from materials such as plywood, plastic, and metal. It is circular wall formwork that is used only once. It is popular among builders because it is easy to assemble and disassemble. Single-use formwork is ideal for projects with tight budgets.

• Steel Formwork

  This formwork is constructed with high-quality steel. It is strong, durable, and offers precise circular wall structures. It is suitable for large-scale construction projects, such as bridges and high-rise buildings.

• Aluminum Formwork

  Aluminum formwork is lightweight, making it easy to handle during circular wall construction. It is popular for high-rise building construction. It provides repetitive wall structures efficiently. This formwork requires skilled labor to install and remove.

• PVC Circular Formwork

  This formwork is made from high-strength, durable, and lightweight PVC. It is popular for its resistance to environmental elements, such as rust and moisture. It provides a smooth finish and is easy to assemble and disassemble.

• Flexible Formwork

  Flexible formwork is a non-rigid circular wall formwork system that creates walls with circular shapes and irregular designs. It uses flexible fabric or membrane to achieve the desired shape. It is ideal for artistic and architectural projects that require non-conventional wall shapes.

• Climbing Formwork

  This formwork is for constructing tall circular walls, such as in dam or tower construction. The system moves vertically along the wall as the circular wall structure height increases. It is safe and efficient for high-rise construction projects.

• Jump Formwork

  This formwork is similar to climbing formwork. However, it jumps to the next level after pouring and curing the concrete. It is suitable for constructing tall circular walls quickly and efficiently.

Features and Functions of Circular Wall Formwork Systems

• Support Walls Construction

  Circular wall formwork is essential for constructing round or curved walls. It ensures that concrete walls are built uniformly and accurately. Its design allows it to be adjusted to different diameters and radii. This makes it useful for various construction projects irrespective of the size and curvature of the wall.

• Reinforce Concrete Walls

  Circular wall formwork systems support the placement of reinforcement bars (rebar) before pouring concrete. Rebar is essential in strengthening concrete walls, especially for cylindrical walls. The formwork creates a mold in the shape of the desired wall, including spaces for rebar placement. Once the concrete hardens, the formwork is removed, leaving a strong, reinforced, circular wall.

• Enhance Construction Speed and Efficiency

  Circular wall formwork is designed to be set up and taken down quickly. This reduces the time needed to construct circular walls. Its design is usually lightweight and requires few tools and workers to assemble. This reduces labor costs and increases productivity. Additionally, this formwork is adjustable. This feature eliminates the need for custom formwork for different wall sizes, further saving time and resources.

• Improve Wall Surface Finish

  The material used on the circular wall formwork directly impacts the wall's finish. Some materials provide smoother concrete finishes than others. Examples of materials used in circular wall formwork include plywood, steel, and aluminum. Steel and aluminum formwork are better options for smoother finishes than plywood. The smoothness is essential because it reduces the need for additional finishing processes once the wall is complete.

• Promote Safety

  Properly installed circular wall formwork can withstand the pressure of wet concrete and workers. This ensures the safety of everyone on the construction site. Formwork systems also have safety features like braces, clamps, and locking mechanisms. These enhance the stability and integrity of the structure while the concrete sets.

• Ensure Construction Flexibility

  This formwork can be adapted to different types of projects. This includes building foundations, water tanks, silos, and circular columns in commercial and residential buildings. Moreover, it can accommodate various design requirements. For instance, it can create walls with different diameters, radii, and angles of curvature.

Applications of Circular Wall Formwork Systems

Circular wall formwork systems have multiple applications across various industries and construction projects. Here are some common usage scenarios:

• Concrete Walls with Circular or Curved Shapes

  Circular wall formwork is primarily used to construct concrete walls that are round or curved in shape. This includes walls for bridges, tanks, silos, foundations, and other structures. The formwork ensures smooth, uniform surfaces for these walls.

• Infrastructure Projects

  These formwork systems are commonly used in large-scale infrastructure projects, such as highways, railways, and airports. They create circular or curved concrete structures like columns, retaining walls, and viaducts.

• Tall Buildings and Skyscrapers

  In the construction of tall buildings, especially those with a height of more than 100 stories, circular wall formwork is used to build strong, high circular concrete walls. These walls can be a support structure, like the core walls, or external walls.

• Bridges

  Circular wall formwork can build arch or circular shape bridge support walls. The formwork helps create smooth, strong walls that support the bridge deck and traffic above.

• Tanks and Reservoirs

  These formwork systems are used to construct round or curved concrete walls for water or other liquids storage tanks and reservoirs. The formwork ensures strong walls with a smooth inner surface for easy liquid flow.

• Wind Turbine Foundations

  Circular wall formwork can be used to build the round or curved concrete walls of wind turbine foundations. These walls need to be strong to support the turbine and smooth so the concrete can slide out easily during pouring.

• Architectural Features

  These formwork systems are sometimes used in architectural features of buildings, like round or curved concrete walls in the exterior, interior, and entrance areas. The formwork helps create attractive walls that are strong and have a smooth surface.

• Historical and Cultural Sites

  Circular wall formwork can also be used to rebuild or restore round or curved walls at historical or cultural sites. The formwork ensures walls that match the original ones are built.

• Underground Structures

  These systems are sometimes used for underground structures like round or curved walls in sewers, tunnels, and stormwater management systems. The formwork creates strong walls that can handle soil and water pressure.

How to choose circular wall formwork systems

• Cost:

  Cost is an essential factor when choosing a wall formwork system. The initial purchase cost, rental fees, and associated expenses like transportation and assembly should be considered. It's also necessary to consider the overall project budget and ensure the selected formwork is within budget. However, don't just focus on the upfront costs. Look at the long-term costs and benefits. Some systems may have higher upfront costs but are more durable or efficient in the long run.

• Labor Skills and Availability:

  The skills and availability of laborers can significantly impact the choice of wall formwork system. Some systems require specialized skills or training, which may not be readily available in the project location. Consider the local labor market and the skills of available workers when selecting a formwork system.

• Quality of Materials:

  The quality of materials used in the formwork system can affect its performance and reliability. Look for systems made from high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the project’s pressures and conditions. Consider the system's construction, whether it uses reinforced steel, high-grade plywood, or other quality materials.

• Availability of Spare Parts:

  The availability of spare parts is essential for the maintenance and repair of the wall formwork system. Choose systems with readily available spare parts in the project location. This can reduce downtime and ensure the project progresses smoothly. Consider the brand's market presence and support network, as this can affect the spare parts availability.

• Project Timeline:

  The project timeline can influence the choice of circular formwork systems. Some systems are more straightforward to assemble and disassemble, reducing construction time. If the project has a tight deadline, consider a formwork system that can be installed and removed quickly.

• Customization Needs:

  If the project requires specific dimensions or designs, consider a formwork system that allows customization. Some systems offer adjustable sizes and shapes to meet various project needs. Consider the project requirements and choose a system that can provide the necessary customization.

circular wall formwork systems Q&A

Q1: What are the benefits of using circular wall formwork?

A1: Circular wall formwork is quick to assemble, reducing the time needed to pour concrete. It is highly adjustable, allowing for different diameters and heights. The system is robust, producing smooth concrete finishes without defects. It is safe, providing a secure environment for the workers.

Q2: How does the supplier circular wall formwork system work?

A2: The system uses a beam and plywood to create a wall template. The template is then supported by props and shoring to ensure stability. Once everything is in place, the concrete is poured and left to set.

Q3: What are the disadvantages of formwork?

A3: The main disadvantage of formwork is that it is labor-intensive, which increases project costs. It is also time-consuming because it needs to be assembled and disassembled. Additionally, if not adequately managed, it can lead to concrete defects.

Q4: How many times can formwork be reused?

A4: There is no specified number of times that formwork can be reused. However, the number of reuses depends on the type of material used to construct the formwork. For instance, steel formwork can be reused up to 50 times, while plywood formwork can be reused up to 20 times.

Q5: What is the difference between formwork and shuttering?

A5: Formwork refers to the process of creating walls and structures in concrete, while shuttering is the support system used to hold formwork in place. In short, formwork is the concrete wall, while shuttering is the support system holding it in place.