Requirements For The Construction Process Of Aluminum Formwork

Aluminum formwork has become a popular choice for modern construction due to its numerous advantages, including cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability. It is widely used in high-rise buildings and other large-scale construction projects, where precision and reliability are essential. However, to achieve optimal results, it is crucial to follow specific construction procedures that ensure the proper installation and maintenance of the aluminum formwork system.

 

1. Construction Measurement and Release
Accurate measurements and the proper release of control lines are fundamental for the success of any construction project. For aluminum formwork, these steps are particularly important for ensuring that the formwork system is correctly aligned and that the structure is built according to specifications.

Axis, Side Line, and Control Lines
The first step in the construction process involves marking and measuring key lines to establish the base for the formwork system. The axis, side lines, and 30 control lines of the wall columns must be clearly measured and indicated. These lines serve as critical reference points for positioning the aluminum formwork panels during installation.

Once the control lines are marked, it's important to verify that they are consistent with the building's design plans. A visual inspection of the wall reinforcement should be done to confirm that it aligns with the side line. This step ensures that the formwork system will produce the desired structural results without any deviation.

Checking the Protective Layer
Another important step in the process is to leave an appropriate protective layer when positioning the wall reinforcement. The protective layer helps prevent the reinforcement from coming into contact with the formwork, which could result in issues like corrosion or weakening of the concrete.

 

2. Measurement of Floor Flatness
The flatness of the concrete floor is a crucial factor for ensuring the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the final construction. During the construction process, the level of the concrete floor should be checked to ensure that it falls within acceptable tolerances.

Flatness Control
According to industry standards, the floor flatness should be controlled within an 8mm range. If the flatness exceeds this tolerance, corrective measures should be taken, such as trimming or grinding the floor to restore its level. This ensures that the formwork will fit properly and that the finished concrete structure will meet required quality standards.

Handling Root Leaks and Rot
One potential issue when using aluminum formwork is the rot or leakage that may occur at the root of the aluminum mold, especially during the pouring of concrete. To avoid these issues, it is important to check for any potential leaks before proceeding with concrete pouring. This helps prevent moisture-related damage and ensures the overall quality of the poured concrete.

 

3. Preparation of Construction Joints
The construction joint is the interface between two sections of poured concrete and can be a weak point in the structure if not properly prepared. To ensure a solid bond between the concrete layers, the surface of the concrete poured on the construction joint should be carefully prepared before the formwork is installed.

Chiseling and Cleaning
Before installing the aluminum formwork, the surface of the construction joint must be chiseled, leaked, and thoroughly cleaned. Chiseling helps remove any loose debris or rough edges from the concrete, ensuring that the surface is smooth and free from contamination. This ensures proper adhesion between the new concrete layer and the previous one.

Horse Stool Iron for Embedded Parts
For inclined roofs, it is necessary to use a horse stool iron made from Φ16 steel bars. This component is used for the embedded parts that connect with the aluminum formwork system. The horse stool iron provides additional support for the aluminum formwork, ensuring that the concrete structure remains stable during the pouring process.

 

4. Installation of External Walls, Elevator Shafts, and Lighting Shafts
The installation of external walls, elevator shafts, and lighting shafts often requires additional steps to ensure that the aluminum formwork functions correctly. These components, especially when dealing with bay windows, are highly prone to deformation due to the weight of the concrete and the pressure exerted during the pouring process.

Expanding the Connecting Layer
Before installing the aluminum formwork for external walls, elevator shafts, or lighting shafts, it is crucial to expand the connecting layer between the wooden mold and the aluminum mold. This expansion should be performed at an elevation angle to ensure that the formwork system can handle the pressures associated with the concrete pouring.

Punching Steel Rods for Positioning
Once the connecting layer has been expanded, steel rods should be punched to facilitate proper positioning of the aluminum formwork. This process ensures that the aluminum panels are securely positioned and will remain in place during the pouring and curing of the concrete.

 

5. Application of Release Agent
To ensure that the aluminum formwork can be easily removed after the concrete has set, a release agent should be applied to the surface of the formwork before it is positioned on-site. The release agent creates a barrier between the aluminum formwork and the poured concrete, allowing the formwork to be easily removed without damaging the concrete surface.

Uniform Application of Release Agent
It is important to apply the release agent uniformly across the surface of the formwork. Both the upper and lower halves of the formwork should be brushed evenly to ensure that the release agent does not cause any inconsistencies in the concrete finish. Overuse of the release agent can result in excess fluid leaking into the ground, which could cause uneven curing of the concrete.

Avoiding Waste Oil
Additionally, it is critical to avoid using any waste oil on the surface of the aluminum mold. Waste oil can negatively affect the quality of the concrete surface, potentially leading to discoloration or weak spots in the finished structure. A clean, uniform layer of release agent is essential for achieving a smooth and flawless concrete surface.

 

6. Maintenance and Inspection of Aluminum Formwork
Regular maintenance and inspection of aluminum formwork are vital to ensuring its longevity and effectiveness on-site. This includes inspecting the formwork for any signs of wear and tear, ensuring the panels are free from corrosion, and checking that the release agent is applied correctly. Proper care of the formwork not only improves construction quality but also extends its lifespan, providing significant cost savings over time.

 

7. Environmental Considerations and Sustainability
The use of lightweight aluminum formwork also has environmental benefits, as aluminum is highly recyclable. Aluminum formwork systems can be reused for numerous construction projects, reducing the need for new materials and minimizing waste.

Using aluminum formwork also reduces the carbon footprint of construction projects by lowering transportation energy consumption and promoting eco-friendly building solutions.