Concreting and Formwork Logistics and Optimization

Formulas, with correction factors, are derived for finding the pressure of concrete on formwork. The design and cost of wood formwork is analyzed to find the optimum number of uses, that is also expressed as a simple formula. The trade off between rates of pour and strength of formwork is investigated and a least-cost solution is modeled. This is expanded to find the optimum height of lifts when several forms are poured alternately rather than continuously. Other expressions are derived to find the number of sets of forms, arrival intervals and sizes of concrete trucks, and related scheduling of pours. Numerous examples, tables, and diagrams as well as a cogent review of basics will help the field engineer relate theory to practice. This is a systems engineering approach that attempts to mate and quantify the interaction between many of the variables encountered in concrete and formwork construction related to large piers and lays the foundation for analagous studies.