Simplistic or ornate, from ancient Persia to the far corners of the Western World, column formwork has not only found its place in the annals of history but is also being used today to support monolithic structures such as bridges and provide aesthetic appeal to homes and commercial buildings. Those who understand the significance of structural support and a building that needs to have appeal, as well the components that need to make the column formwork work, are the leaders in formwork manufacture and design, Disc-O-Scaff.
The Components that Make the Columns
Here are some of the different components that make up the columns:
- Panels – the panels are the main component of column formwork as they provide the structural shape. Typically made from steel, they are versatile and reusable. Economy form panels and column boxes together with external corner angle panels create square, rectangular, or circular columns to form strong structural support.
- Ties and Wedges – ties are used to secure and space prefabricated modular panels. Wedges connect column boxes, keeping the formwork in place.
- Anchors – an anchor is a device that is embedded in the concrete during placement to secure the formwork. External fasteners are used together with the anchors and removed after use.
- Clamps or Yokes – as much as the wedges or ties are used to hold the panels together, adjustable clamps or yokes are used to keep the panels in position.
- Props or Double-Headed Jacks – props or jacks are used when adjustable load-bearing is needed as in the case when column formwork components need to be removed, leaving the support to the floor or ceiling in place.
These are the most important components that make column formwork part of the structural support of a building’s framework.
The Requirements of Formwork
Here are some of the requirements of formwork:
- It must be strong enough to bear the weight of the varying loads applied to it
- Formwork materials should be relatively inexpensive, light, and reusable
- Construction of the formwork should be such that it is easy to remove
- Strong connections must be used to brace and align the formwork so that it keeps its shape
- It must be watertight to prevent leakage of any cement grout
- Formwork must be placed on strong supports and never be damaged or rusted as it will affect the quality of the concrete finish
Quality Formwork Engineered to Last
Whether you are constructing bridges or planning on adding columns to give your house a more regal appearance, we at Disc-O-Scaff have the formwork you need. Our steel economy form panels can be used to construct walls, columns, and many other concrete structures.
Having been in the business for over 10 years, we are confident that our scaffolding and formwork solutions are perfect for all building and repair projects. Whether decorative or plain, contact us and we will manufacture the formwork specific to your requirements.