An Overview of Traditional, Conical and Gantry Slipforming Systems

The construction industry has always grown by leaps and bounds over the past several decades. This growth is not only reflected on the ever increasing lengths of structures built, but also on implementation of newer and better technologies. One such technology that has revolutionized the way structures are built is the slipform construction technique. This method deals with a continuous outpouring of concrete using particular construction equipment over a preset formwork skeleton. Once the pouring is continued on to the next level, the earlier cement portions start cooling, thus giving rise to a stable structure.

Slipform construction consists of several sub-categories such as gantry slipforming, traditional slipforming, conical slipforming, etc. In spite of the difference in these categories, they all rely on the fundamental quick cooling properties of cement. As a business in this sector, it is highly important for you to know the difference between these categories. Improving your knowledge about these methods can help you choose the most appropriate ones for your construction activities. The following points briefly explain these slipforming categories.

Traditional Slipforming

This is the most conventional and common type of slipforming system used. It mainly involves utilization of hydraulic jack and other heavy lifting machines (construction and engineering arena, VARIOUS SYSTEMS OF SLIPFORMING, 2015). This system is used for building high rise buildings, domes, towers and other similar structures. It may require the use of cranes to lift beams, jacks, concrete material and other similar materials.

Conical Slipforming

After the traditional technique, the next method that was considerably developed and used is called conical slipforming. The working style of this technique is mostly similar to the traditional one. The only difference involves a change in cross section diameter lengths with the variation in height of the structure being built. This change in cross section leads to attaining the particular conical shape of the structure. Along with the cross sections, the wall thickness may vary depending on the structure’s height, material used, cone size, etc. Chimneys, smoke outlets in factories and even some types of tower constructions employ the use of conical slipforming.

Gantry System

This type of slipforming makes use of a gantry, which is a bridge-shaped structure that houses a platform. This platform can be used for supporting various construction equipments. Earlier, the standard version of slipforming was quite popular in the construction industry. Caissons, high-rise buildings, bridges, all made use of this technique. But, as there was a need for better and economical solution, the gantry slipform method was developed. This system does not require dismantling and reassembling during construction. The decks are very spacious for workers to move around as well for storing equipment. This technique does not require much usage of cranes.

Be it traditional or gantry slipforming, as a business, you should consider several other associated factors such as cost of completion, equipment needed, safety precautions followed, etc. You should carry out a thorough research before implementing any of these methods.