What is Mivan shuttering?

Mivan shuttering: How does it work?

The primary component of the MIVAN formwork is the panel. This panel consists of an extruded aluminum rail section that is welded to an aluminum sheet. This manufacturing process creates a panel that is lightweight yet has a high stiffness to weight ratio. As a result, the panel experiences minimal deflection when subjected to the weight of concrete. They can be manufactured in any size and shape to meet the specific requirements of different projects.

The pre-cast technology is an extension of the structural load-bearing walls and flat slab system. In this method, different modules of the structure are cast in factories away from the site and then brought together for assembly on-site. The main difference between MIVAN technology and pre-cast construction is that MIVAN uses a monolithic construction approach, while pre-cast involves joining pre-cast elements together.

In this construction method, cast-in-situ concrete walls and floor slabs are used to create a structural system that is poured in one continuous process. To expedite the construction process, early removal of forms can be accomplished through the use of hot air curing or curing compounds. At the construction site, we erect large forms that are the size of rooms for the walls and floor slabs. These forms are both strong and sturdy, and they are fabricated with precision for easy handling. The concrete is carefully produced in RMC batching plants, ensuring strict quality control measures are in place. It is then transported to the construction site using transit mixers.

Mivan shuttering: Used in ‘Housing for All by 2024’

Mivan shuttering is widely used for construction purposes across the globe, including in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Mivan Shuttering is widely utilized in India for the ambitious project initiated by the Indian government, known as "Housing for All by 2024".

Advantages of using Mivan shuttering

1. Requires less labor compared to other methods, resulting in faster completion of floors.
2. Fewer joints and decreased leakages.
3. Smooth finish for the walls and slabs.
4. Low-maintenance options.
5. Seismic resistance
6. Carpet area is very large.
7. High quality construction work
8. Faster completion of the task.
9. No need for plastering.

Disadvantages of using Mivan shuttering

1. High initial cost. The equipment and formwork needed for this construction method can be quite expensive, resulting in increased project costs at the beginning.
2. The system's design flexibility is limited due to its reliance on pre-fabricated Mivan shuttering components, which can restrict the range of design options available for a project.
3. The Mivan system is mainly utilized for high-rise buildings and large-scale projects. However, it may not be suitable for smaller or more complex structures.
4. Dependence on skilled labor is a significant factor when it comes to the proper installation of the Mivan system. However, finding skilled labor can be challenging and may lead to increased labor costs.
5. The Mivan system is primarily utilized in India and Southeast Asia, making it challenging to locate contractors who possess expertise in working with this system outside of these regions.
6. The initial setup process requires some time.
7. Leakage issues such as seepage and leaks during the monsoon season.

Limitations of Mivan formwork

While Mivan formwork does offer numerous advantages, it is important to acknowledge its limitations as well. However, the limitations do not present any significant issues.

1. Finishing lines on concrete surfaces are visible due to their small sizes.
2. After completion, the services become slightly difficult to perform due to the narrow width of the components.
3. To be cost-effective, it is necessary to have consistent planning and elevations throughout.
4. The formwork requires a number of spacers, wall ties, etc., which are placed at 2-foot intervals. However, this can lead to problems such as seepage and leaks during the monsoon season.
5. Contraction cracks are likely to appear as a result of box-type construction. Additionally, the heat of hydration is high due to the presence of shear walls.
6. Once it is placed, the design becomes rigid, making any alterations difficult later on.

Mivan shuttering formwork components

While Mivan formwork does offer numerous advantages, it is important to acknowledge its limitations as well. However, the limitations do not present any significant issues.

Mivan construction technique

1. Setting up the wall reinforcing steel

Wall reinforcing steel is utilized to provide structural support to buildings and assist in holding the concrete in place until it reaches approximately half of its required strength. The aluminum formworks are cast around the factory-made steel mesh and then directly erected on the construction site.

2. Placement of aluminium formwork

Prefabricated room-sized walls and floor slabs are erected along the wall, reinforcing steel. The aluminium alloy slabs are precisely manufactured and have a user-friendly design, making them easy to handle. These structures also integrate spaces for windows, ducts, doors, and other features like staircases, façade panels, and chajjas. The forms are joined together using the pin and wedge system, allowing for quick dismantling once the concrete structure is complete.

3. Pouring concrete

Once the forms have been cast, high-quality concrete is poured. The concrete is molded into the shape of the cast, which is then removed to create space for a structure constructed entirely of cement concrete, reinforced by wall reinforcing steel. The aluminum forms have the ability to be reused for a minimum of 250 times, which significantly reduces waste generated from the construction site.

The resulting structure is precise, seamless, and polished. It has a high tolerance and does not require any additional plastering. Consequently, it helps to save time, effort, and money.

Mivan shuttering construction versus conventional formwork