Types of formwork for the construction of monolithic columns

The stability and accuracy of monolithic column construction depend greatly on the formwork selection. When concrete is first poured, formwork acts as a mold, keeping the concrete’s shape as it solidifies. The quality and longevity of the columns may be seriously jeopardized in the absence of appropriate formwork. In order to get the greatest results, builders can make well-informed decisions by having a thorough understanding of the various formwork options.

There are several different types of forming material for monolithic columns, and each has benefits and uses of its own. Because traditional timber formwork is inexpensive and simple to handle, it is frequently used. However, to guarantee correct assembly and alignment, skilled labor is needed. Conversely, steel formwork is a common option for large-scale projects due to its strength and reusability. Because steel formwork is durable, even though it is initially more expensive, it may end up being more cost-effective over time.

Aluminum formwork is an additional choice that combines the advantages of steel and wood. Its lightweight design facilitates handling and assembly, and its strength allows it to endure the pressures of pouring concrete. Aluminum formwork systems can also be quickly assembled and disassembled due to their modular design, which can greatly expedite the building process. The size of the project, the available funds, and the particular requirements all influence the choice of formwork material.

New formwork systems are always being developed to increase construction quality and efficiency. For instance, plastic formwork provides a reusable and lightweight option that is perfect for projects involving repetitive column designs. Its resistance to corrosion and moisture guarantees a longer lifespan. By choosing the best option for their projects, builders can increase safety and efficiency during construction by being aware of the benefits of the various formwork types.

Types of columns and formwork for their arrangement

The section’s geometric shape divides each column into the following categories:

• round (cylindrical);
• square or rectangular;
• polyhedral;
• figured.

Columns of the first two types are the most common. The final two categories are primarily utilized for ornamental or building restoration.

Column arrangement formwork is classified based on the number of cycles of use.

• disposable;
• reusable.

Formwork can be: depending on the manufacturing material

• wooden;
• plastic;
• metal;
• cardboard;
• combined.

Formwork for cylindrical columns

It is possible to use reusable or disposable round column formwork.

Cardboard tubes are now quite often used as disposable formwork for round columns. In their manufacture, paper tape, a special adhesive composition and a polymer material (to ensure water resistance) are used. Such column formwork is produced with an internal diameter from 150 to 1200 mm. Its installation is quite simple: the pipe is simply put on the reinforcement frame, then support rings are installed, to which spacer braces are attached (to provide stability and vertical alignment). For quick dismantling of such products during their manufacture, a special metal wire is pressed along the entire length of the pipe, pulling which makes a cut in the cardboard along its entire length, and then it is easily separated from the hardened concrete.

Take note: It’s best to take the cardboard pipe apart right before the construction is finished. By doing this, the support will be shielded from technological harm.

Unquestionably, disposable formwork for cardboard columns offers the following benefits:

• low cost;
• easy installation and dismantling;
• when using it, the surface of the concrete support is of high quality;
• low weight;
• high strength.

Permanent components of a circular cross-section are pipes, which can be made of plastic, metal, or asbestos-cement. Once the concrete solution has solidified, this type of permanent formwork is still an essential component of the column structure.

A word of caution: metal pipes need to have an anti-corrosion compound applied to their surface before use.

Reusable round formwork is made up of half-pipes made of plastic or metal that are fastened to the column’s reinforcement frame using unique quick-clamping locks. Plastic column formwork is not as strong as metal, but it adheres to concrete less firmly, making disassembly simpler.

Formwork for square and rectangular columns

The most common applications for these columns are in individual and industrial construction.

The large-panel formwork system is the most widely used type of removable formwork for the arrangement of such columns. Formwork for square columns with a cross-sectional area between 0.2 and 1.0 meters can be quickly installed with the help of universal panels, which have the following dimensions: width: 0.4 ÷ 1.2 m, height: 1.0 ÷ 3.3 m.

Using longitudinal fastener (pin) holes, formwork with a rectangular cross-section can be made. A single column requires the following components: slopes (at least two two-level supporting ones), pins with special tightening nuts (usually, 16 sets are sufficient for a column roughly 3 meters high), and panels (4 pieces, assembled in a "mill").

The system’s popularity can be attributed to:

• simplicity and high speed of installation and dismantling;
• the ability to form a column section in accordance with the project requirements;
• durability (from 80 to 200 concreting cycles depending on the manufacturer and material of the panels).

The beam-girder formwork system is another type that is frequently used in contemporary construction to construct columns. Such a structure consists primarily of formwork slabs, steel girders, different-sized beams, and fasteners. It is simple to modify this kind of formwork system to produce columns with square, rectangular, or even octagonal cross sections. Comparing this type of steel column formwork to other materials (plastic, laminated chipboard, or boards and plywood panels), it is the strongest and most durable.

The kind of formwork utilized in the construction of monolithic columns is essential to guaranteeing both structural integrity and smooth surface finishes. There are a few options: more contemporary options like steel or aluminum formwork, which offer durability and ease of reuse, and traditional timber formwork, which is flexible and affordable but requires a lot of time to set up. Plastic formwork also offers an eco-friendly and lightweight alternative. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, and the best option will rely on the particular needs, available funds, and intended results of the project.

Independent manufacture of formwork for the construction of columns

You have several options when creating formwork by hand for monolithic columns.

The easiest (though labor-intensive) way to create a formwork frame for square or rectangular columns is to:

• Using boards (25 mm thick and a length equal to the height of the column), using nails and screws, we make a U-shaped structure with internal dimensions corresponding to the cross-section of the future column.
• We make a shield from the same boards, which will subsequently be the fourth side of the formwork frame.
• We install a U-shaped structure to the reinforcement frame and attach a board made of boards to it.
• We level the formwork vertically using a level and secure it with stops made of boards or bars.
• To give the structure additional strength, we tighten it using additional bars and studs with nuts.
• Now you can start pouring the concrete mixture.

You can better comprehend the technology used to manufacture formwork for square columns by watching the following video:

An additional self-production technique is quite similar to the first one. We use plywood (preferably moisture-resistant, 12 mm thick) and wooden blocks in place of boards when creating formwork. We use quick-release spring locks (clips) and reinforcement rods as tightening elements. Telescopic racks that can be rented can be used for vertical alignment.

Note! The above methods are advisable to use if you need to make a small number of columns (3÷4 pieces). Otherwise, the costs of materials and hardware for making formwork will be quite high. If you need to build 10÷12 columns (for example, for a large glazed terrace or veranda), then column formwork on universal panels, rented (the cost of renting one set, which includes: 4 panels, 2 two-level telescopic slopes, a set of necessary fasteners, will be about 7500 rubles per month). And since the column formwork can be removed 48 hours after pouring the concrete solution, then in the paid month you can easily make the required number of columns.

Any concrete project must be successful, and building monolithic columns requires careful consideration of the formwork to be used. Every variety of formwork, including those made of plastic, steel, aluminum, or wood, has advantages and disadvantages of its own. The choice should be based on elements such as the project timeline, budget, and column sizes and shapes.

Because it is lightweight and simple to operate, timber formwork is perfect for smaller projects or when bespoke shapes are required. Large-scale construction projects can benefit from the strength and superior finish that steel formwork provides. Aluminum formwork strikes a good balance between strength and usability because it is both lightweight and robust. Because it is easy to handle and reusable, plastic formwork is becoming more and more popular, particularly for repetitive tasks.

In the end, the formwork selection should be in line with the particular needs of your project. Take into account the total expenses, the intricacy of the column design, and the intended level of finish. You can improve the effectiveness and caliber of your building project by making an informed choice by being aware of the distinct benefits of each type of formwork.

Time spent choosing the right formwork will guarantee the longevity and visual appeal of the completed columns in addition to expediting the construction process. You can achieve accurate and dependable results with the correct formwork, providing a solid base for your entire structure.

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