In this fast growing world, real estate has to adopt some fast and smart methods of construction to pace with the demand. This huge industry which provides shelter to the entire world is accepting various technologies to keep at par with other sectors and Monolithic Construction is one among them. This new technology is suitable for the construction of townships or that needs faster speed of construction in larger ventures. This smart method of construction, the Monolithic Construction has been declared economical as well as satisfying in faster construction of large housing projects.
1.What is Monolithic Construction
Monolithic Construction is an efficient and modern construction technology where aluminium formwork is used instead of wooden formwork as a mould into which concrete is poured. This is also known as aluminium formwork system. Aluminium is more durable, resistant to seismic activity, reduces construction time, gives a smooth finish and also makes it popular with its reduced cost. In this type of construction, walls and slabs are cast simultaneously at the site by using easy going lightweight aluminium shuttering formwork. This system is much faster than the traditional systems of construction.
2.Why Monolithic Construction
Monolithic Construction comes into force when there are large scale construction ventures and bigger building sites. It is preferred in India to complete the most challenging government scheme ‘Housing for All’ by 2022. It can construct a large number of houses in a limited period of time without any trouble. It makes use of room size structures to construct slabs and walls and also permits shuttering for both slabs and columns in construction. They also function efficiently even for walls of huge rooms and floor slabs. This type of construction is extremely strong and sturdy and can be constructed with utmost accuracy. Moreover it is easy to manage. This technology saves money and time besides giving efficient results. Monolithic Construction is easy to operate and gives strength and safety and is constructed at faster speed. Assembling and fitting of the shuttering is easy and the slabs and walls can be created easily. It does not involve any beam construction. The tough task of columns is also reduced. Slabs as well as walls are constructed simultaneously.
3.Steps Involved in Monolithic Construction
This unique construction technique involves four steps during the process of construction.
3.1. Erecting Walls Using Reinforcing Steel Wire Rods
A basic framework of the structure is first erected using reinforcing steel wire rod mesh in proper position. It gives a structure to the building. This structure acts as the deciding factor for the performance of the construction. These steel rods will be then fastened with each other by using tie wire to avoid dislodgement through the construction stage and also while pouring of concrete.
3.2. Placing Aluminium Formwork
Room-sized walls and structured floor slabs are erected along the wall strengthening steel. The aluminium slabs are easy to handle. They are manufactured in the factory that is prefabricated as per the room dimensions and brought to the construction site. They are placed on the outer side of the reinforcing wire rod mesh. These structures will have the provisions for windows, doors etc. A pin and spearhead system will combine these structures and can easily be destroyed once the concrete structure is ready.
3.3. Pouring of Concrete
Once the structure with the steel rod mesh and the aluminium slabs is ready then high quality concrete is poured into the structure. The concrete may be poured within the cast using a pump. Vibrators may also be used to remove any air pockets from the structure. This concrete takes the shape and form of the cast. The cast is removed when this concrete hardens to give a durable structure, made entirely of concrete supported by wall reinforcing steel. These aluminium bodies can be reused as many as 250 times giving minimum wastage on the construction site, and reducing the cost of wastage.
3.4. Dismantling of Aluminium Panels
After the required curing period, the aluminium panels are dismantled. During this period the concrete has gained enough strength. This resultant structure doesn’t need any plastering as it is precise, smooth with more durability and strength. It has high tolerance, saves time and money.
4.Advantages and Disadvantages
Every coin has two sides. Monolithic Construction carries with it, more of advantages than the number of disadvantages.
4.1. Advantages of Monolithic Construction
Construction time will be reduced approximately to half as compared to the conventional methods of construction. It reduces the number of labour and also doesn’t require masonry. It gives a seismic resistant structure which is more durable. As there are fewer joints in the construction, it reduces leakages thus requiring negligible maintenance in future. This modern technology provides structures with smooth finish and also offers more carpet area as compared to conventional methods of construction. It also reduces the time of construction; it may reduce to even half as compared to the conventional construction methods.
4.2. Disadvantages of Monolithic Construction
At times the finished structure may show visible finishing lines if the used components are smaller in dimensions. It requires uniform planning. Once the structure is created, it becomes difficult to go for any modifications. The walls and slabs may show cracks due to shrinkage but can be prevented by either using control strips in the structure or by reducing the heat of hydration by using fly ash.
5.Wrap-up
Considering the advantages and disadvantages of Monolithic Construction, we can conclude that the advantages can meet the larger goal of construction with less labour, less time and more durable structures. This technology does not require the use of expensive construction equipments. It is very efficient and facilitates concreting of all the components like walls and roof simultaneously. Monolithic Construction Technology is environmental friendly. It eliminates the use of precious natural resource wood which is replaced by recyclable aluminium. New and innovative construction techniques should be adopted by the construction sector of India to meet the rising demand at a quick pace and Monolithic Construction is one of those innovations that could speed up the construction process along with a number of advantages.
Written by Nikhil Gattu
