Formwork and falsework are key components of the concrete construction industry, which itself forms an important segment of the overall construction market. Concrete construction is used in virtually every sector including transport, energy, utilities and industrial, commercial and residential buildings. It varies from the simple construction of foundations in residential developments to highly complex engineered solutions for major infrastructure projects. Formwork is the generic name given to temporary moulds which are constructed to contain wet concrete in order to form the required finished dimensions and surface quality. Falsework or shoring is the temporary works used to support horizontal formwork.
The formwork and falsework are removed when the concrete has set and hardened sufficiently for it to support its own weight. There are two broad types of formwork.
Traditional (or component) formwork comprises bespoke products manufactured in-situ from basic timber, sheet and section materials. Once used, the materials may be re-worked a limited number of times before being disposed of.
System formwork uses a wide variety of standard proprietary modules which can be used together to provide a bespoke solution. After use, the components are disassembled and can be re-used many times in different configurations. For highly specialised applications, customised components may be manufactured and supplied to compliment the use of standard proprietary systems.
Benefits of system formwork
System formwork currently accounts for approximately 7.0% of the world formwork market and there is considerable scope to expand use of System formwork over time. Broader acceptance of system formwork is likely to come about as a result of an increased emphasis on safety in some developing markets and of contractors gaining a fuller understanding of the value that can be added in comparison to traditional formwork. The key benefits of system formwork are:
- Reduced construction times
- Reduced labour costs.
- Improved quality.
- Improved safety both during the construction process and handling and storage of products.
- Added competitiveness for the client contractor, through increased
- efficiency.
Design and development
Product design and development is a key feature of the system formwork industry since it forms an integral part of the overall service offering.
The UK and German system formwork companies have been the primary drivers of product development. New products have been introduced that have enabled continued improvements in site productivity and overall cost.
