Why is aluminium formwork better than conventional formworks?

Aluminium formworks are used to form concrete structures and load-bearing wall constructions. They are fairly new in the construction market. Yet, they have made their mark with their reliability and versatility.

There are certain components of an aluminium formwork system, the most fundamental element is the panel. The panel is an extruded aluminium rail section which is welded to an aluminium sheet. Extrusions and panels can be customised to suit the needs of any project. The formwork is lightweight yet strong and yields negligible deflection under concrete loading. The components can be used multiple times without the correctness of surface and dimensions being compromised. Aluminium formwork systems are resistant to elements like moisture and are good for mass houses, multi-storey buildings and commercial places. They are also more suited for Indian conditions. Aluminium form is definitely better than conventional formworks.

Here’s why they are better than conventional formworks

Better speed
It takes four days per floor for an aluminium formwork system while it takes a minimum of 21 days for a conventional formwork system. In today’s world of swift urbanisation, the increasing needs for houses can’t be fulfilled by conventional formworks. Aluminium formwork can meet the demands in a speedy manner. A semi-skilled or unskilled labour force can work with the materials and the labour productivity is also good. A lot of money can be saved on labour charges while ensuring efficiency.

Pre-planning of the system
The process of a conventional formwork system is slow and it requires detailed pre-planning. A proper scheme needs to be worked out to take care of the quality and speed of the construction while an aluminium formwork system doesn’t require any pre-planning. Big construction projects can be completed swiftly while ensuring quality. If a construction process is already ongoing, an aluminium formwork system can be accommodated without altering the layout of the building.

No plastering
The quality of surface finish is not good in conventional formwork systems unless it is plastered. Plastering involves excessive usage of plastics which is bad for the environment. An aluminium formwork system provides excellent surface finish without any plastering. This helps the environment in the long run. The materials are durable, lightweight and easy to handle.

Cast-in-situ cellular construction
The aluminium formwork system has cast-in-situ cellular construction while the conventional formwork system has a simple RCC framed construction. The in-situ construction of walls and partitions decreased the need for follow-on wet trades. The walls and slabs are simultaneously cast which helps in saving time and cost of the whole process.

While a conventional system does provide some accuracy, it’s not even remotely close to the accuracy provided by an aluminium formwork system. The wastage of material in an aluminium formwork is much lesser than the traditional one. The process is also safer than the process of the traditional formwork system.

Earthquake resistant
The conventional formwork system is earthquake resistant however the resistance is not as good as the resistance offered by the aluminium formwork system. The aluminium formwork can bear strong earthquakes due to its box type construction. The set up will not get dismantled only after the construction process is completed. Aluminium formwork system is recommended for constructions in high seismic zones.

Monolithic structure
Concrete walls are poured monolithically which prevents cracks and joint problems. The usage of joints is less due to which leakages don’t occur. The concrete finish is smooth and the formwork can be used extensively. The structure is very sturdy and extremely tolerant. The bending capacity of an aluminium system is up to 60 units per area.

Cost-effective
No doubt, the initial cost of setting up an aluminium formwork system is high but it proves to be economical in the long run as it requires minimal maintenance. The stability is better too. In a study it was found that the total project cost was reduced by 40% while the duration of the project was reduced by 50% as compared to a conventional formwork system. A conventional formwork system is costly when it comes to the overall cost as it requires more maintenance and it can’t be utilised multiple times.

The benefits of an aluminium formwork system outweigh the disadvantages. The above list of advantages implies that an aluminium formwork system is better than a conventional formwork system in every possible way. The ability to withstand the extreme pressure of concrete, the ease of assembly and the durability make the aluminium formwork system one of the best formworks in the market. The construction industry is slowly replacing the conventional formwork system as the system is not able to keep up with the rising demands of the market. The aluminium formwork system dominates the industry now, even industries in developing countries are shifting to this formwork system.