Formwork

Formwork is a structure, usually temporary, used to contain poured concrete and to mould it to the required dimensions and support until it is able to support itself. It consists primarily of the face contact material and the bearers that directly support the face contact material. 

Formwork systems used for concrete frame construction have continued to develop significantly since the early 1990s. The major innovations have focused on on-site efficiency of production, health and safety, and environmental issues, driving the concrete construction industry towards ever-increasing efficiency. 

Different formwork systems provide a wide range of concrete construction solutions that can be chosen to suit the needs of a particular development. 

Traditional formwork for concrete construction normally consisted of bespoke solutions requiring skilled craftsmen. This type of formwork often had poor safety features and gave slow rates of construction on-site and huge levels of waste.

The main types of formwork systems in use now are:

• Table form/flying form
• System column formwork
• Horizontal panel
• Slip form
• Tunnel form

The modern formwork systems listed above are mostly modular, which are designed for speed and efficiency. They are designed to provide increased accuracy and minimize waste in construction and most have enhanced health and safety features built-in.