What is Climbing Formwork in Construction?
Climbing formwork is a special type of formwork that is designed to move vertically along with the progress of concrete construction. It uses an electric or hydraulic jack to move on its own and is also referred to as self-climbing formwork.
When is Climbing Formwork Used?
Climbing formwork is an effective solution for structures that require seamless wall units or high-rise structures with repetitive forms. Its use depends on the type of building units being constructed and remains in place during the concrete pouring process. For structures with more than 20-floor levels, a fully self-climbing formwork system is generally used.
Benefits of Using Climbing Formwork in Construction
This section highlights the key benefits of using climbing formwork in construction projects, including its effectiveness, versatility, and efficiency in the building process.
Components and Assembling of Climbing Formwork
Components of Climbing Formwork
The main components of climbing formwork include suspension platforms, wall formwork material and pieces, an anchor system, and climbing brackets. These components, as well as the overall arrangement, can vary in sophistication depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Construction Material
Climbing formwork is usually constructed using steel members, with the concrete form panels attached to the steel frames. Some of the form panels are supported using rollers.
Assembling and Operation
Once the concrete is poured into the formwork, the frame is released and moved away from the wall. In the case of a self-climbing formwork, the frame is lifted by jacks to the next level or area that needs to be poured. The formwork panels are then closed and the concrete is poured. This process repeats for several days until the structure is complete. A specialized and well-trained crew can complete the work in a shorter time.
Applications of Climbing Formwork
Climbing formwork is particularly useful for the construction of high-rise structures such as airport control towers, elevator shafts, silos, and skyscrapers.
Benefits of Self-Climbing Formworks
- Increased Construction Speed Self-climbing formwork allows for concurrent construction of vertical and horizontal parts of a building, leading to increased construction speed.
- Improved Productivity Climbing formwork minimizes labor time and increases productivity with its repetitive design.
- Reduced Labor Requirements Setting up the formwork requires less labor compared to traditional formwork systems.
- Increased Safety Self-climbing formwork ensures higher safety during the setting and removal process compared to traditional formwork.
- No Additional Supports Needed The climbing formwork system does not require any additional supports.
- Weather Resistant Climbing formwork can be used in any weather condition.
- High-Quality Surface Finish The concrete after curing attains a high-quality surface finish.
- Improved Concrete Pumping Climbing formwork systems can be arranged for concrete pumping within the required area and space.
- Suitable for Inclined Angles Some climbing formwork systems can be used at inclined angles.
- Reduced Scaffolding and Temporary Work Platforms Climbing formwork reduces the use of scaffolding and temporary work platforms.
- Customizable for Complex Wall Geometries Climbing formwork is adaptable to complex wall geometries and can provide customized access, working, and storage areas.
- Simultaneous Construction of Slabs and Walls Climbing formwork enables simultaneous construction of slabs and walls.
- Safe Working at Greater Heights The system allows for safe climbing and working at greater heights.
- Efficient Construction of Large Shafts Large shafts can be constructed with the climbing formwork system without the use of a crane or complicated systems.
FAQs
What is a Climbing Formwork?
Introduction to Climbing Formwork
Climbing formwork refers to a special type of formwork used in vertical concrete construction. It moves on its own by using an electric or hydraulic jack, making it a self-climbing formwork.
Main Components of Climbing Formwork
Overview of Components
The primary components of climbing formwork include:
- Suspension platforms
- Wall formwork material and pieces
- Anchor system
- Climbing brackets
Working Process of Climbing Formwork System
Use of Steel Members
Climbing formwork is typically made of steel members. Concrete form panels are attached to these steel frames and some are supported with rollers.
Moving the Formwork
Once the concrete is poured into the formwork, the frame is released and moved away from the wall. If a self-climbing formwork is used, the frame is lifted by jacks to the next level to be poured. The formwork panels are then closed, and the concrete is poured. This cycle continues for several days, with specialized and trained crews able to complete the work in a shorter time.