Which Types of Concrete Forms are Used in Bridge Construction?
Concrete formwork is incredibly useful in bridge construction, and it helps ensure that bridges are constructed with precision in order to be both visually appealing and structurally efficient. There are a number of different bridge components that can be constructed using various types of concrete formwork, whether pre-engineered steel or aluminum forms or timber forms. Below are seven different types of concrete forms that are common in the construction of bridges as well as overpasses:
1. Bridge Deck Formwork
This is formwork used to cast horizontal concrete structures to create bridge decks. It’s a type of beam formwork. For longer bridges, bridge deck formwork is often cast one section at a time, ultimately resulting in a continuous superstructure of connected sections that achieve the necessary bridge deck size and load bearing capabilities.
2. Bridge Overhang Formwork Systems
These forms are used to create bridge overhangs. Bridge overhang brackets are installed, and then formwork is secured to them in order to cast structures that serve as overhang areas.
3. Composite Bridge Forms
These forms are intended for use with composite bridges as well as concrete bridges that have been partially pre-cast. They are a type of cantilever formwork, which means that bridge sections are cast one at a time using a set of cantilever traveling forms that are employed outward from the head of a pier, carrying the forms, rebar, and load of fresh concrete in each cycle.
4. Parapet Formwork
This is a type of cantilever formwork used to create concrete parapet structures. Cantilevered parapets serve as a boundary along the two sides of a bridge structure. They protect bridge sealings and enhance the visual aesthetics of lateral barriers.
5. Truss Formwork Systems
These systems are modular trusses, which are comprised of beams to create rigid structures of desired shapes and sizes. They are great for creating big spans of concrete in cycles. They minimize the amount of ground shorings required, are easy to install, and are ideal for civil engineering projects.
6. Pylon Formwork
Able to create vertical concrete structures that support bridge decks and overpasses, pylon formwork ensures that the structures that are cast are sturdy and strong enough to support significant loads. Pylon formwork may self-climbing, which means it can climb upward to the next module of a cycle and build upon itself.
7. Heavy Duty Bracket Forms
Great for pier cap or pier head casting, these types of forms are another cantilever type with high load bearing capacities and relatively simple designs that make them convenient and easy to use.
OVERALL
These are some but not all of the common types of forms used to construct bridges and similar structures. Some forms may be designed specifically to meet the needs of a particular project. Most of the types of formwork listed above can be re-used for future projects or sold if no longer needed. Pre-engineered bridge construction formwork generally retains its value exceptionally well and lasts a fairly long time before needing to be replaced. Occasionally, some types of bridge construction formwork may be permanent and remain part of a final bridge structure, but most types are temporary.
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