In the modern scenario of construction sites, there is no pressure to deliver high-quality work in a limited time. The older method of construction is not applicable in the crowded area efficiently, whereas the monolithic workflow can be easily adapted in these conditions. The amount of time required to complete a building can be reduced to one third using this technique. It has now become a more efficient and affordable method of construction. If you also want to build your project efficiently and affordably, get your hands on the durable and reliable aluminum formwork manufacturers in Mumbai.
Understanding Monolithic Construction
The word "monolithic" literally means a single block. A box-like structure is fixed in a way that it does not leak, and the concrete is poured in the formwork. It gives a result as well, which is strong enough to bear every kind of earthquake and other seismic activities. The joints are also free of leaks or cracks.
The Role of Aluminum Formwork
The monolithic construction explains what should be done, and the aluminum formwork explains how it is to be done. It can be considered a huge and high-precision Lego set for adults. Let us see how this system supports the monolithic process:
- Inclusive Design for Simultaneous Pouring : The older methods use a mechanism in which a separate framework is prepared for every element at a time, but this new technique is able to make a customized formwork for the entire floor, which can be used at the same time without wasting time. The panels are designed to join each part perfectly with the other and allow the concrete to flow in every corner simultaneously.
The Pin and Wedge Logic
It is very simple to assemble the panels of this formwork. A simple pin and wedge system is used to join these panels. There is no need for skilled carpenters or heavy machinery to fix them properly. A normal worker can fix this using a wedge to create a tight formwork. It ensures that there is no leakage and the integrity of the concrete is preserved.
Key Advantages of Using Aluminum Formwork
Let us see some of the significant advantages of this formwork:
- Saves a lot of time : An estimated time of 21-30 days is required to complete a floor using the traditional method, but with the aluminum formwork, the same work can be completed in just 4-7 days. The wall panels can be removed after 24 hours after the concrete is poured, while the slab remains supported by formwork until it gains full strength.
- Provide strong structure : It is a very strong piece of concrete, and hence it stands still in any seismic activity. There are no weak spots where new concrete meets old, which consequently reduces the risk of water seepage and structural failure.
- Eliminating the Need for Plaster : The continuous pouring of concrete on the aluminum panel gives a smooth texture to the walls. This results in a reflecting surface, and there is no need for plaster. You can directly go for the putty and paint, and your building is ready.
- Easily Scalable : For a large housing project that includes similar towers, the cost per use reduces and makes it much cheaper than timber or plywood in the long run.
Steps involved in a monolithic workflow
While constructing a building through the process of monolithic workflow, the following steps are involved:
- The aluminum formwork is tied by the workers for the walls and the slabs. The steel is continuous and interlocks the floor below with the walls above, as it is a monolithic structure.
- Electrical boxes and plumbing sleeves are fixed directly into the formwork. Everything is cast inside the wall. So, there is no need to cut into the walls later.
- The aluminum panels are made to stand around the steel. Wall panels go up first and then the deck panels for the ceiling or floor above them.
- Concrete is poured into the walls. As the walls fill up, the concrete overflows into the slab area, which creates the seamless monolithic bond.
- Within 24 hours, the wall forms are removed and moved to the floor above to start the process again. This is known as the kicking phase.