Mivan formwork technology is a revolutionary construction system that utilizes robust and durable aluminum components to form concrete structures efficiently. Renowned for its strength, adaptability, and ease of installation, Mivan formwork has become a preferred choice for constructing residential units and mass housing projects. This article delves into the components, erection process, features, comparison with conventional systems, advantages, and limitations of Mivan formwork.
Components of Mivan Formwork
Mivan formwork components are categorized based on their location and functionality. Here’s a detailed look:
1. Wall Components
- Wall Panel: The primary element of the formwork that forms the vertical face of walls. These aluminum panels are precision-cut to fit exact wall dimensions, ensuring structural consistency.
- Rocker: An L-shaped component used to support and align wall panels through stub pin holes.
- Kickers: These ledges provide additional support to wall panels, forming the wall face at the top.
- Stub Pin: Critical for joining wall components securely, facilitating a sturdy assembly.
2. Beam Components
- Beam Side Panel: Designed to form the sides of beams, these rectangular panels are cut to precise measurements for seamless installation.
- Prop Head and Panel for Soffit Beam: The prop head supports beams where no bottom support exists, featuring a V-shaped head for easy disassembly. Soffit beam panels are mounted on prop heads for added stability.
3. Deck Components
- Deck Panels: Horizontal aluminum sheets used as the base for slab casting, ensuring a smooth and uniform finish.
- Deck Prop and Prop Length: Vertical supports for deck panels that bear slab loads, adjustable to accommodate varying slab heights.
- Soffit Length: Provides structural support to deck panels along the room’s perimeter, ensuring stability during casting.
4. Other Components
Additional components include soffit corners for internal and external edges and corner panels for walls, ensuring comprehensive coverage and integrity of the formwork system.
Erection Process of Mivan Formwork
The erection process involves three key stages:
1. Placement of Aluminum Formwork
The process begins by cleaning the formwork and applying release agents to prevent concrete adhesion. Reinforcing steel is placed within the wall and slab areas, followed by the assembly of prefabricated panels. These panels are carefully aligned, with openings for windows, doors, and other architectural features integrated seamlessly. A pin-and-wedge system is used to secure the panels, allowing for easy dismantling after concrete curing.
2. Pouring of Concrete
High-quality concrete is poured into the assembled formwork, taking the desired shape of the structure. During this process, workers monitor the system to prevent dislodging of pins, slipping of props, or concrete overspill at openings.
3. Striking of Formwork
Formwork removal begins 12-36 hours after concreting, depending on the structure’s vertical or horizontal nature. Panels are cleaned and stacked for reuse, minimizing waste and ensuring cost-efficiency.
Key Features of Mivan Formwork
Mivan formwork offers several distinctive features:
- Load Carrying Capacity: Supports 7-8 tonnes per square meter, ensuring robust structural integrity.
- Striking Time: Vertical panels can be removed 12 hours post-concreting, while horizontal panels require 36 hours.
- Durability: Made of high-grade aluminum alloy, Mivan components are reusable up to 200 times.
- Cycle Time: Enables rapid construction, with floors completed in just 7 days.
Comparison: Mivan Formwork vs. Conventional Formwork
| Factor | Conventional Formwork | Mivan Formwork |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Normal | Superior |
| Construction Speed | Slower due to step-by-step process | Faster, with simultaneous wall and floor casting |
| Aesthetics | Uneven finishes with visible joints | Smooth finishes with clean interior lines |
| External Finishes | Requires frequent plastering and painting | Durable textured finishes requiring minimal maintenance |
| Efficiency (Carpet Area) | 83.5% | 87.5% |
| Material Consumption | Normal cement and steel usage | Higher cement and steel consumption |
| Maintenance | High due to cracks, plaster repairs, and repainting | Low maintenance due to durable concrete finishes |
Advantages of Mivan Formwork
- High-Quality Construction: Offers precise dimensions and superior surface finishes.
- Durability: Can withstand repetitive use, with panels lasting up to 250 cycles.
- Speed and Efficiency: Accelerates construction timelines, completing a floor in as little as 7 days.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reusability and reduced dependency on skilled labor lower overall costs.
- Customization: Panels can be tailored to specific project requirements.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces waste by reusing materials across multiple projects.
Disadvantages of Mivan Formwork
Despite its many advantages, Mivan formwork has certain limitations:
- Concealed Services: Thin wall components make integrating utilities challenging.
- Uniform Design Requirement: Cost-efficiency depends on standardized planning and elevations.
- Modification Challenges: Alterations are difficult once components are cast in reinforced concrete.
- High Initial Investment: Economically viable only for large-scale projects with extensive repetitions.
- Seepage Risks: Wall ties and spacers may cause seepage during monsoons.
- Shrinkage Cracks: Box-type construction increases the likelihood of cracks due to concrete shrinkage.
- Heat of Hydration: Shear walls produce high heat during curing, requiring additional measures.
Mivan formwork technology is transforming the construction industry by enhancing speed, quality, and efficiency. Its durability, reusability, and ability to deliver superior finishes make it ideal for large-scale projects. However, its effectiveness depends on meticulous planning and volume-driven application. As the demand for rapid construction grows, Mivan formwork is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping modern infrastructure.