LECTURE NOTES DCN4 COFFRAGES VERTICAUX

COLUMN FORMWORK
A column form or box consists of a vertical mould that has to resist considerable horizontal
pressures in the early stages of casting. The column box should be located against a 75 mm
high plinth or kicker that has been cast monolithic with the base or floor. The kicker not only
accurately positions the formwork but also prevents loss of grout from the bottom edge of
the form. The panels forming the column sides can be strengthened by using horizontal cleats
or vertical studs, which are sometimes called soldiers. The form can be constructed to the full
storey-height of the column, with cut-outs at the top to receive the incoming beam forms.
The thickness of the sides does not generally provide sufficient bearing for the beam boxes,
and therefore the cut-outs have a margin piece fixed around the opening to provide extra
bearing (see Fig. 10.3.2). It is general practice, however, to cast the columns up to the
underside of the lowest beam soffit, and to complete the top of the column at the same time
as the beam, using make-up pieces to complete the column and receive the beam
intersections. The main advantage of casting full-height columns is the lateral restraint
provided by the beam forms; the disadvantage is the complexity of the formwork involved.
Column forms are held together with collars of timber or metal called yokes in the case of
timber and clamps when made of metal. Timber yokes are purpose made, whereas steel
column clamps are adjustable within the limits of the blades (see Fig. 10.3.3).
The spacing of the yokes and clamps should vary with the anticipated pressures, the greatest
pressure occurring at the base of the column box. The actual pressure will vary according to:

 rate of placing;
 type of mix being used – generally the richer the mix the greater the pressure,
 method of placing – if vibrators are used, pressures can increase up to 50% over hand
placing and compacting;
 air temperature – the lower the temperature the slower is the hydration process and
consequently higher pressures are encountered.
Some preliminary raking strutting is required to plumb and align the column forms in all
situations. Free-standing columns will need permanent strutting until the concrete has
hardened but with tied columns the need for permanent strutting must be considered for
each individual case.
Shaped columns will need special yoke arrangements unless they are being formed using a
patent system. Typical examples of shaped column forms are shown in Fig. 10.3.4.
The links below will demonstrate the onsite operations which you might find useful in
understanding the subject.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsIsmRdoJ8I
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XFlzyrt7vU