Plastic Column Forms (PCF) for Concrete Forming, 18in Dia X 8ft
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Reusable
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Stackable
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Waterproof
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Cost Effective
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Saves Time, Money and Labor
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Smooth Surface
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U.V. Resistant
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No Spiral Marks
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Prevents Binding & Sticking
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Easy to strip
Plastic Column Forms Introduction
Plastic column forms are a must have in the construction industry, they are used to create molds for concrete columns. Made from plastic material they can withstand the pressure and weight of wet concrete and are stable and reliable. One of the best feature of plastic column forms is they are light weight, easy to handle, assemble and disassemble on site. This save time and labor, that’s why they are favorite among construction professionals. Available in different sizes and shapes plastic column forms can be used to create round, rectangular and square columns, versatile for different design requirements. Whether you’re working on a small residential project or a big commercial development plastic column forms is a practical and efficient solution for concrete columns.
Benefits and Features
Plastic column forms has many benefits and features that makes them suitable for many construction projects. Here are some of the advantages:
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Durable: Made from high quality plastic material, these column forms can withstand harsh weather and heavy use, long lasting.
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Easy to Maintain: Easy to clean and maintain, can be reused multiple times and cost effective.
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Corrosion Resistant: Unlike other materials, plastic column forms are corrosion resistant, suitable for use in wet and chemical environments.
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Customizable: Can be customized to fit specific column design and size, versatile for different construction needs.
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Labor Saving: Smooth surface of plastic column forms makes concrete pouring and finishing easy, save labor cost and time.
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Creating Columns: Round, rectangular or square columns, plastic column forms can accommodate different shapes and sizes, suitable for any project.
By having these features round plastic column forms not only improve the construction process but also the finish of concrete columns.
Applications and Uses
Round plastic column forms are used in many construction sectors because of their versatility and practicality. Here are some of the applications:
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Residential: Used to create columns for houses and apartment buildings, stable and reliable.
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Commercial: Used in commercial projects like offices, retail stores and warehouses, plastic column forms is a must for support columns.
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Industrial: For industrial facilities like factories and manufacturing plants, plastic column forms is used to create support columns and piers.
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Infrastructure: Plastic column forms is used in infrastructure projects like bridges, highways, tunnels and subways where strong and stable columns is required.
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Creating Rectangular Columns: In commercial and industrial buildings, plastic column forms is used to create rectangular columns which is a common structural element.
By providing a solution for many construction needs, plastic column forms has become a must have tool in the industry to create strong and durable concrete columns for any project.
FAQ for Plastic Column Form (PCF)
How high can I pour the Plastic Column Form (PCF) for Concrete Forming? Height is not the issue, but how fast should you pour. Deslauriers recommends not to exceed 1200psf or 8 foot liquid head at 70° F. Standard practice limit concrete free fall to 5 feet max. How many reuse can I get? The actual number of reuse of the PCF is dependent on site conditions. Higher liquid head, higher pour rate, excess vibration, drilling of holes, rough handling put more stress on the form. These stresses and the severity of same can affect the reusable life of the form.
Why are there two sets of holes on the vertical flange of the Plastic Column Form? There are several reasons for this. The inner 3 hole pattern is for tighter joint for higher pours (4 feet or more). The outer 2 hole pattern is for shorter pours thus saving labor. The outer holes and the center vertical rib is for bracing attachment.
Can I cut the Plastic Column Form to a custom size? Yes, you can cut the Plastic Column Forms between the double flange at the 4 foot level with a hand saw or a Sawzall and still be used back to the 8 foot level. These forms are marked at one foot interval and can be cut anywhere; however once cut other than the 4 foot double flange; they cannot be used back to an 8 footer.
Can I use the Plastic Column Form for bull-nosed application? No. The pressure from the length and the rest of the form will cause blow-out. Deslauriers recommends to use steel column form for this purpose.
How do I brace the Plastic Column Form (PCF)? Same as fiber tube, use a template at the bottom and plumb with a wood 2 x 4 or turnbuckle.
When do I know the Plastic Column Form (PCF) is approaching its reusable limit? Good indicators are enlargement of bolt holes, any cracks or splits on form body or ribs and any noticeable separation of vertical flanges during a pour. Always inspect form for any damage or cracks before each use. If unsure, don’t use.
Are the horizontal ribs strong enough to use as a ladder? No. The ribs are not designed for point loading. Further, standard safety regulations prohibit this activity. Always use proper ladders as specified by OSHA, ANSI, etc.
Does sunlight affect the Plastic Column Form (PCF)? As with any plastic, long term ultraviolet light exposure breaks down plastic properties. Even with UV inhibitors, this process is only slowed. So if you plan to store the PCF for a long time, place it in the shade or better yet, cover it to protect the plastic from damaging UV.
How do I clean the Plastic Column Form (PCF)? First, a light coat of form release will help prevent concrete buildup. To clean, we suggest muriatic acid or light power wash.
Can I use power tools to tighten bolts? Yes, but carefully. Over-tightening the bolts can cause the bolt head or nut to dig into the flange creating a weak spot. When possible hand tighten or use a washer as a backup.
How do I attach the Plastic Column Form (PCF) to a fibre tube? The easiest way is to cut a 3" to 4" section of horizontal flange from the PCF. Use this as a clamp onto the top of a tube. Bolt a section of PCF to this "clamp" and you have a unit that can be used over and over to secure a PCF to a tube.
Can I attach something to the Plastic Column Form (PCF) or should I drill a pilot hole? The form may split if I just nail, so drilling is recommended.
Can I use an external vibrator on the Plastic Column Form (PCF)? No, that could damage the form. Also, be careful when using an internal vibrator so it doesn’t touch the sides of the form.
The Plastic Column Form (PCF) for Concrete Forming is a very efficient product for construction projects. This form simplifies the concrete forming process, a lightweight and reusable solution that saves time, money and labor.
One of the features of the PCF is its lightweight construction. Made from high quality plastic materials, this column form is easy to handle and maneuver on site. It’s stackable for storage and transportation and has a smooth surface for a professional finish.
The PCF is also waterproof so it can be used in any weather condition. It’s U.V. resistant so it won’t be damaged or discolored from sun exposure. It’s durable so you don’t need to replace it often, that’s cost savings in the long run.
No spiral marks, the PCF won’t bind or stick during pouring. Easy to strip, so it’s quick and efficient to remove once the concrete has cured. The form has two sets of holes on the vertical flanges for different pour heights and to attach bracing.
The PCF is reusable too, while the number of reuses depends on jobsite conditions, proper handling and maintenance can extend the life of the form. Always inspect before each use to check for any damage or cracks that may affect its usability.
To clean the PCF, apply a light coat of form release before use and muriatic acid or light power wash for cleaning. Be careful when tightening bolts to avoid creating a weak spot, and attach to form for added stability.
Overall the Plastic Column Form (PCF) for Concrete Forming is a reliable and efficient solution for all your concrete forming needs. Lightweight, reusable and cost effective, saves time and money, smooth surface and waterproof, for small or big projects, the PCF is durable and convenient to use.
