Encofrado de Columnas
Encofrado de Columnas
Failing to follow precise formwork operations can result in structural instabilities, misaligned or misshaped columns, and eventual structural failure . Inaccurate formwork operations may lead to improper load distribution and incorrect geometric conformity, which compromises the designed load-bearing capacity . To mitigate these risks, comprehensive planning is essential, including precise formwork setup, alignment and levelling checks, and ensuring quality material selection . Adhering to national and local construction regulations, utilizing advanced coordination tools like 3D modeling, and training personnel in industry standards are also critical strategies for minimizing construction risks .
Hermetic sealing in column formwork is significant because it prevents the leakage of wet concrete, ensuring the column retains its designed shape and dimensions without structural voids or defects . Methods to achieve hermetic sealing include sealing gaps with wet cement paper and ensuring all joints are tightly fitted before concrete pouring . During the formwork setup, strategic placement of nails and extra care at the edges help improve compression between board interfaces, enhancing the hermetic seal effectiveness . This practice ensures the structural integrity of the column by minimizing blemishes and preventing weakening from accidental spillages or inefficient concrete compaction .
When selecting wood for column formwork, it is crucial to consider multiple factors to ensure the effectiveness and durability of the construction. The wood should be free from defects such as knots, holes, cracks, stains, deformation or warping, deterioration, insect attack, and discoloration . These characteristics impact the strength and reliability of the formwork, affecting the overall stability and quality of the column construction . Wood quality directly affects the formwork's capacity to hold the fresh concrete's weight and maintain precise dimensions and alignments, which are critical for the structural integrity of the columns .
Maintaining separation between a column formwork and a neighboring property is crucial to ensure safety, especially in seismic zones. This separation allows buildings to move independently during an earthquake without colliding with adjacent structures, which can lead to damage or collapse . Proper separation contributes to the structural resilience and safety of both properties by preventing unwanted stresses and interactions between them, thereby enhancing earthquake preparedness .
To ensure stability of column formwork during concrete pouring, a method involving the placement of vertical supports known as "puntales" is recommended . These supports are fixed to the ground using oblique wedges and are fastened securely with steel stakes and other support fixtures such as sleepers . Additionally, diagonal bracing, or "tornapuntas," should be applied at an inclination, ideally at a 45° angle, with the top end resting on the top of the formwork and the bottom end on a fixed support . This configuration ensures a stable and secure formwork setup which prevents the structure from leaning or collapsing under the pressure and weight of the fresh concrete .
Welding reinforcement bars directly to metal gates is not recommended as it can weaken the structural integrity of the steel due to localized heat application, which may alter the properties of the reinforcement rods . Instead, an alternative method involves using a metallic plate with two reinforcement bars. This plate is securely tied to the longitudinal bars of the column before concrete is poured. Once the formwork is removed, the metal gates can then be welded to the metallic plate, ensuring that structural integrity is maintained . This method offers stability without compromising the material strength of the reinforcement or the overall structure .
Pre-embedded electrical features in column construction must be managed carefully to ensure proper integration without compromising the structural or functional aspects of the column. This involves verifying the placement and secure fastening of any electrical fixtures like switch boxes or conduits to the column's reinforcement or formwork before pouring concrete . Ensuring the electrical components are well anchored prevents displacement or misalignment during the concrete pouring and setting processes, and allows for easy access and functionality post-construction . Properly embedding these fixtures during the formwork setup ensures compatibility with the design specifications and functionality while minimizing future adjustments or repairs .
Design and safety considerations for resisting lateral pressure in column formworks include accounting for the weight of the concrete, construction loads, and the inherent weight of the formwork itself . To accommodate the lateral pressure from the fresh concrete, formwork must be constructed with precision to prevent deformation or displacement during the concrete setting process . Safety measures should include securing formwork alignment and ensuring that structural loads, notably from workers and equipment on site, do not exceed the design capacity of the formwork . Additional features should include bracing and anchoring systems to stabilize the column formwork against lateral pressures, alongside measures to prevent accidental spills or collapses during construction activities .
If defects known as cangrejeras are discovered on the surface of a column after the formwork is removed, immediate corrective actions are necessary to ensure the structural integrity and aesthetic quality of the column. These surface defects typically indicate voids or honeycombing, where the concrete has failed to fully fill the formwork . The recommended corrective action involves filling in these voids using appropriate repair mortars or cement to restore the surface to a smooth, uniform state . It's crucial to conduct these repairs promptly to prevent any long-term damage or deterioration of the column .
Proper alignment and leveling are crucial in formwork construction for maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic uniformity in columns. Misalignment or improper leveling during the formwork setup can lead to irregularly shaped columns, which compromise the intended structural design and may lead to structural defects under load . Consistent application of leveling and alignment throughout the formwork process ensures that when the concrete cures, the shape and angle of the column meet the specifications outlined in the project plans . This essential detail controls dimensional accuracy and enhances the overall stability and load-bearing capacity of the column .