JumpForm Systems: Enabling Faster Construction

JumpForm Systems came into existence before 1970. Today it is one of the most commonly used technologies in India for core and shell works of high-rise towers, explains John Guest, President, Construction, Piramal Realty.

JumpForm Systems is a special type of climbing formwork that is used for vertical concrete structures. The system consists of shutters which closes and opens with mechanical means. The entire system then jumps with Hydraulic system through jacks. It provides a very safe environment to manpower working at high levels with three to four levels of platforms for finishing that area immediately after casting. While it is highly capital intensive, this technology is an effective solution for buildings that are either very repetitive in form (such as towers or skyscrapers) or that require a seamless wall structure. The formwork supports itself on the concrete cast independently and does not rely on support or access from other parts of the building or permanent works. The self-climbing core system offers faster cycle times.

The JumpForm system at site allows inside and outside forms to be hung from a gantry, which allows the contractor to roll forms away from or towards the formed walls, while erecting and stripping. All of the formwork for an entire storey is raised independently of the crane. All operations can be carried out safely and quickly on the formwork’s large, fully enclosed workspace, as the climbing formwork system is anchored to the concrete at all times. The entire core formwork is repositioned hydraulically with just one lift. This self-climbing core system is a safe and efficient way to construct high-rise cores. It has room to accommodate all the site equipment needed and is enclosed on all sides for a safe, weather shielded working environment at any height. The permissible live loads on the platform mean lesser storage space required on the ground. The formwork for an entire floor is raised by powerful hydraulic cylinders from one casting section to the next.

To summarise, deploying Jumpform Systems across a project ensures:
• Constructions are completed faster thus delivering projects within the stipulated timeline.
• Cuts down total project cost, self-climbing formwork cuts down the requirement for crane time considerably, allowing the crane to be used for other construction work and thus reducing the total number of cranes needed on site.
• The formwork is independently supported, so the core walls can be built earlier than the rest of the main building structure.
• High quality surface finishes are achieved.
• Enhances better planning of construction activities due to the repetitive nature of the work.
• The formwork system is easy to maintain, clean and reuse with little formwork waste generated as compared to the traditional formwork.

Authored by:
John Guest,
President, Construction,
Piramal Realty