Life Cycle Cost and Evaluation of Performance between Steel Formwork and Plastic Formwork in Concrete Structure Building

Abstract

It is important to choose the most suitable type of formwork system material for construction projects due to the fact that formwork plays a crucial part in the construction of reinforced concrete structures. However, some parties still did not take note of important factors to consider in choosing the right type of material for formwork. This research study aims to ease the process of selecting the suitable type of formwork by surveying 5 respondents in the related field of matter located in Malaysia on the two types of formworks and by evaluating their Life Cycle Cost (LCC). Based on the respondent’s opinions and answers, the preferred formwork was more heavily on steel formwork. It shows that steel formwork is superior in the duration required for setting up, quality of concrete and its surface finishing, cost, strength, durability, handling, and times of reusability. Meanwhile, plastic formwork shows that it is superior in the category of its resistance to leakage and less waste (concrete) production. It was concluded that 7 out of 11 questions were led by steel formwork and 3 out of 11 by plastic formwork, and only 1 question gained the same amount of response from the 5 respondents. By doing the LCC, we obtained that plastic formwork costs RM12,639.60, and steel formwork is RM24,715.50. It shows that plastic formwork is 49% cheaper than steel formwork. Hence it can give more benefits and is more economical for the long-term duration of the company. These findings will provide ease and a better understanding of formworks that can be used based on the information gained from the research to ensure sustainability towards the environment and economy.