In Nigeria, the adoption rate of modern formwork remains low, and many local contractors lack efficient knowledge in its use. I am committed to illuminating this topic by writing a series of articles on formwork, having had the privilege of learning about it first-hand. This knowledge can significantly elevate our construction standards and place our architects and other professionals on the global stage. In these articles, I focus on one component at a time.

Girders:

Often referred to as H-Beams, I-beams, or yellow beams, these are wooden beams with an optimal I-section, allowing them to handle substantial bending stresses. The most common type is the P20 classification according to European standards, with an overall depth of 200 mm and top and bottom chord dimensions of 80 mm (width) and 40 mm (thickness). They come in various lengths, ranging from 1.45 m to 11.90 m, with custom lengths available upon request.

Strength and Capacity:

Girders in this class boast a bending strength of 5 KNm and a shear strength of 11KN. To contextualize, this is equivalent to loading 34 bags of 50 kg cement in the center of a 1.45 m long girder. Their high load capacity allows them to span much greater distances compared to traditional 2 x 3 and 2 x 4 in. timber joists. Moreover, due to their known structural properties, formwork can be designed optimally for each project.

Application and Versatility:

As the building blocks of modern formwork, girders can be utilized in various applications, including beam, slab, column, and wall formwork, making them invaluable on construction sites.

Though they may initially seem more expensive than traditional timber joists, serious contractors will find girders a worthy investment. They are incredibly durable, lasting for many years and recouping their cost multiple times over. Additionally, they enhance work quality, improve safety, and bolster the overall image of the company.

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