4.2 Types of formworks

According to the Australian standard method of measurement, formwork refers to all temporary structures required to support and contain concrete, and it includes centring, shuttering, moulds, and all the necessary shores, struts and supports. Formwork can be made from a variety of materials, including timber, steel, aluminium, plastic, and engineered wood products. The choice of material depends on factors such as the type of concrete structure, required surface finish, budget, and whether the formwork will be reused multiple times.

In building construction, formwork plays a vital role in shaping and supporting concrete elements until they achieve sufficient strength. For instance, formwork is required for raft footing systems to define the shape of the foundation and support the wet concrete during placement and curing (refer to Figure 4.1 for an example of formwork used in a raft footing system).

Formwork is also used when preparing for the casting of concrete in strip footing systems to provide a stable mould that ensures the correct dimensions and alignment of the footing (refer to Figure 4.2 for an example of strip footing formwork).  

Similarly, pad footings, which are commonly used to support isolated columns, require well-constructed formwork to maintain the intended size and geometry during concrete placement (see Figure 4.3). 

In addition to footings, formwork is also required for horizontal elements such as slabs. Soffit formwork for slabs is typically made of steel, timber, or similar materials. These systems are supported by props and bracings to ensure structural stability and proper levelling (see Figure 4.4 for a typical soffit formwork setup). 

Moreover, beams require formwork for both sides and the soffit (underside) to maintain shape and alignment. Beam formwork must be well-supported to withstand the pressure exerted by wet concrete (refer to Figure 4.5). 

Vertical structural elements, such as columns and walls, also rely on formwork. These forms are typically made of steel, plywood, or engineered timber and must be tightly secured to prevent deformation and leakage during concrete placement. Figure 4.6 illustrates an example of column formwork.