Formwork - Shuttering

Formwork, also known as shuttering, is the process of creating a temporary structure using boards or panels to shape fresh concrete into the desired form. It is a temporary construction made from various materials such as wood, plywood (OSB), or metal. Formwork is widely used in concrete and reinforced concrete construction on building sites. In practice, formwork may also be referred to as "shuttering" or "molding."

Shuttering plays a crucial role in shaping and supporting reinforced concrete structures during the curing process. Its primary function is to hold the reinforcement in place while concrete is poured, ensuring structural integrity. For example, it is used for casting concrete floors, forming walls with window or door openings, and creating beams and columns. In Poland, it is common to see formwork made from joined wooden planks that can be reused for multiple construction projects. Modern reusable steel formwork and waterproof plywood shuttering systems are also becoming more popular. Additionally, shuttering is used for excavation support. Depending on its location on a construction site, formwork is categorized into three main types.

Excavation Formwork

Excavation formwork is used to secure the walls of trenches and prevent soil collapse, making it easier to install underground utilities or structural elements. These formworks can be made from wood or lightweight aluminum, which is especially useful for small excavations such as pipeline installations. Medium-weight formwork is commonly used in residential construction for securing foundation trenches, while heavy-duty steel plate formwork is typically used in industrial and large-scale infrastructure projects.

Slab Formwork

Slab formwork is used to support concrete floor slabs during construction. This type of shuttering consists of evenly spaced supports holding up beams, onto which formwork panels are placed. In larger projects, table formwork (also known as table shoring) is used, where prefabricated formwork tables are positioned using cranes for efficiency. After setting up the slab formwork, reinforcement bars are placed before pouring the concrete.

Wall Formwork

Wall formwork is used to form walls, including window and door openings, and to provide structural support for decorative facade elements. Depending on the load and function, wall formwork can be categorized as lightweight or medium-weight. Lightweight wall formwork can be installed manually without the need for cranes, making it ideal for smaller projects. More extensive formwork systems require mechanical assistance and are used in large-scale construction.