A complete aluminum formwork system is not a single “panel” but a combination of various panels designed for different structural components. Each type has its own shape, connection method, and load-bearing requirements. Understanding these components helps you better grasp the construction logic and selection criteria of aluminum formwork.

1. Wall Formwork

Function: For casting concrete shear walls, exterior walls, and interior walls.

Characteristics:

· Standard wall panel widths: 300mm, 400mm; height customized to floor height (typically 2.8–3.2m).

· 4mm panel thickness with welded stiffening ribs on the back for rigidity.

· Pin holes on edges for panel-to-panel connection.

· Requiresbacking bars(double tubes or single tube) and tie rods (or flat ties) to resist concrete lateral pressure.

Installation tips:

· Install one side, place rebar mesh, then install the opposite side.

· Use tie rods to control wall thickness; backing bar spacing ≤600mm.

· Exterior wall formwork needs connection to scaffolding or climbing system.

2. Column Formwork

Function: For casting square, rectangular, or special-shaped columns.

Characteristics:

· Composed of four column panels (or custom-shaped panels for special columns).

· Height matches floor height or uses stacked sections.

· Corner angles or diagonal steel connections ensure squareness.

· Column clamps (hoops) placed every 400–600mm along height.

Installation tips:

· Use mortar or foam tape at the bottom to prevent leakage.

· Calibrate verticality in both directions.

· Special treatment at beam-column joints.

3. Beam Formwork

Function: For casting primary beams, secondary beams, and hidden beams.

Characteristics:

· Divided intobeam bottom formandbeam side form.

· Beam bottom form width equals beam width; adjustable steel props underneath.

· Beam side form height = beam height minus slab thickness; connected via aluminum angles.

· For large beams, add tie rods or closer props.

Installation tips:

· Install beam bottom form and props first; level and position; then install side forms.

· Ensure smooth connection between beam side forms and slab formwork.

· Use open forms or reserved holes at beam ends where rebar passes through walls/columns.

4. Slab Formwork

Function: For casting standard floor slabs, balcony slabs, and AC ledges.

Characteristics:

· Standard panel widths 300mm, 400mm; length customized to bay size.

· Pin holes on edges to connect with beam side forms and wall top forms.

· Supported by adjustable steel props (independent props) spaced ≤1200mm.

· Material passesdesigned for transferring panels upward.

Installation tips:

· Lay beam formwork first, then slab formwork.

· Camber slab formwork (1/1000–3/1000 for spans ≥4m).

· Strictly follow prop layout for stability.

5. Stair Formwork

Function: For casting cast-in-place concrete stairs (slab stairs or beam stairs).

Characteristics:

· Most complex component – includesbottom form, step riser forms, and side closure forms.

· Bottom form is an inclined panel matching stair slope.

· Step riser forms are triangular or small rectangular panels, customized per rise and going.

· Side closure forms seal both sides to prevent concrete overflow.

Installation tips:

· Install bottom form and its props first; calibrate slope.

· Install step riser forms from bottom to top, securing each with clamps.

· Add timber strips between risers for extra stability.

· Stripping order: side forms first, then risers, then bottom form.

6. Bay Window / Balcony Formwork

Function: For casting bay windows, balcony railings, AC ledges, and other cantilevered or protruding elements.

Characteristics:

· Typicallyhanging formworksystems – panels supported by hangers or rebar stools, not resting on ground.

· Includes bottom panels, side panels, top panels, and upstand forms.

· Requires precise positioning to prevent floating or shifting during pouring.

Installation tips:

· Secure supports firmly, using rebar stools or dedicated hangers.

· Pour concrete symmetrically and slowly to avoid displacement.

· Strip slightly later than slab formwork to prevent corner damage.

7. Other Special Components

· Elevator shaft formwork: Can use one-piece climbing forms or sectional panels – extremely high verticality required.

· Structural column / ring beam formwork: Small formwork for secondary structures, often used with main aluminum system or standalone.

· Upstand / curb formwork: For sunken slabs in kitchens/bathrooms, roofs, and other waterproof areas.

8. Archipower‘s One‑Stop Supply

Archipower provides formwork and accessories for all the above components. ThroughBIM detailed design, we number and lay out all components to ensure seamless on-site integration. Whether your project is high‑rise residential, villas, commercial buildings, or industrial plants, we offer a complete formwork solution.