Title:
Plywood Form Selection and Care
Author(s):
David Lewis
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
23
Issue:
10
Appears on pages(s):
40-42
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
10/1/2001
Abstract:
Because formworknot permanent materialsis the largest cost component in many concrete structures, reducing formwork costs can pay big dividends. Design professionals can achieve cost reductions by planning for maximum reuse. For high-rise concrete frames, they might, for instance: Repeat the same layout from bay to bay of each floor and from floor to floor. Keep column cross-section dimensions uniform and size them to permit use of standard forms. Keep columns aligned from floor to floor, and in a grid that’s uniform from floor to floor. Use the same depth for beams and joists, and keep the depth uniform throughout the structure by varying beam width instead of depth. Maintain constant spacing beam and joist spacing.1 Contractors can also maximize form reuse by choosing the right plywood for panels, using form release agents properly, and avoiding form misuse and mishandling.