Form Tie

Definition

A form tie is a steel rod with fasteners on each end used to hold together the formwork for a concrete wall.

Purpose

The purpose of a form tie is to maintain the correct spacing and alignment of the formwork during the concrete pouring process, ensuring the formwork remains secure and stable under the pressure of the wet concrete.

Examples of Use

• In the construction of concrete walls, form ties are inserted through pre-drilled holes in the formwork to hold the two sides together.
• Large-scale projects like dam construction or high-rise buildings use form ties to ensure the structural integrity of extensive formwork systems.

Related Terms

• Formwork: Temporary structures used to shape poured concrete.
• Snap Tie: A type of form tie that is easily removable after the concrete sets.
• Waler: A horizontal beam used to brace formwork.

Notes

Form ties come in various types and sizes, each suited to specific applications and formwork systems. Proper use of form ties is crucial to prevent blowouts and ensure the quality of the finished concrete surface.