bekisting

Bekisting, or formwork, is the temporary mold into which concrete is poured to shape various structural elements such as walls, slabs, columns, and bridges. It provides support for the fresh concrete and maintains the required geometry, alignment, and surface finish while the material hardens. After curing, the formwork is removed and can often be reused.

Formwork systems vary by material and purpose. Common materials include timber and plywood, steel, aluminum, and polymer composites. Timber and plywood are versatile and inexpensive for small projects, while steel and aluminum offer higher rigidity and reusability for large-scale or repetitive pours. Formwork can be arranged as panel forms, table forms, or modular systems, and may incorporate shoring and props to carry loads. Specialized forms such as jump forms or slip forms enable rapid cycling for tall or continuous structures.

Design and construction practices focus on safety, accuracy, and efficiency. The formwork must withstand the hydrostatic pressure of fresh concrete, imposed loads during construction, and environmental conditions. Proper detailing includes joints, release agents, bracing, tie systems, and access for inspection and finishing. The sequence typically involves planning and fabrication, on-site assembly, sealing or waterproofing as needed, concrete placement with vibration, curing, and eventual stripping and reuse of formwork.

Quality and safety considerations include preventing leakage, honeycombing, and deformation, as well as protecting workers from hazards during assembly and removal. In modern practice, formwork planning is integrated with project scheduling and cost estimation, with emphasis on reusability and reduced waste.