What Is Reinforced Concrete?

Reinforced concrete has been used in construction since the late 19th century. It has become an essential component of many of our buildings and allows us to construct larger and more complex structures. 

What makes concrete reinforced are the steel bars, known as concrete formwork, that run through the cement. Formwork is essential in modern construction and therefore it’s important to ensure you work with an experienced formwork company when you’re using reinforced concrete on a construction project.

What purpose does formwork serve?

The formwork in the concrete ensures that it maintains the desired shape. The steel bars that are laid throughout the space in which the concrete will be poured can be designed to suit the specifications of the building. 

Once the concrete has set, these bars play another role. Namely, providing additional strength and durability to the concrete structure. However, it’s important that the specifications for reinforced concrete are calculated carefully, so that there is no risk of the concrete failing under pressure once it has been poured. 

Where is concrete formwork used? 

Concrete formwork is most commonly used in the foundations of buildings, as well as in structures that are designed to support heavy loads. This can include tall buildings with multiple storeys, as well as structures like bridges.

The steel bars or mesh used in reinforced concrete helps the material to stay strong when experiencing vibrations, such as those caused by traffic, or where it is subject to heavy tension. This includes where concrete is used in beams or supporting parts of a structure. 

However, it’s important that there is a thick enough layer of concrete placed over the metal, as this is what protects the metal from corrosion and degradation. In other words, the two materials work together to create structures that are stronger and more durable than either steel or concrete can deliver alone.