Can the type of concrete used for a project affect the formwork needed to ensure its success?
Construction Week investigates the effects of self-compacting concrete on formwork. One of the latest developments in the concrete industry is that of self-compacting concrete (SCC). When used correctly, the product does not need mechanical vibration and will simply flow into the areas that have been created by the formwork to meet the structural design. Shorter on-site times and higher quality finishes are among the benefits cited for SCC, but how does its use impact the formwork applied to contain it on a project? And how are the formwork manufacturers overcoming these issues? Concrete choices When a contractor opts to use SCC on a project there will be an immediate impact on the type of formwork system that can be used. This is primarily due to the higher pressures that will occur during the casting period. “If SCC is to be utilised this will generally negate the option for the contractor to use traditional hand-built timber and plywood columns or walls as is sometimes still seen on
