Understanding Slipforming Construction Technique for Tall Concrete Structures

Slipforming is a construction technique used to build tall concrete structures such as bridges, high-rise buildings and towers. It involves the use of a temporary mold or formwork that is raised incrementally as the structure grows taller. The formwork is typically made up of a series of interlocking steel frames that are jacked up at regular intervals to create the desired height.

The process of slipforming begins with the construction of a foundation, which can be either a deep pit or a series of piers that support the weight of the structure. Once the foundation is in place, the first section of the formwork is erected and the concrete is poured into the mold. The formwork is then raised using hydraulic jacks, and the process is repeated, layer by layer, until the desired height is reached.

Slipforming has several advantages over traditional construction techniques. It allows for the construction of tall structures with a high degree of precision and accuracy, as the formwork can be precisely controlled and adjusted as needed. Additionally, slipforming eliminates the need for scaffolding and other temporary support structures, which can save time and money on construction costs. Finally, slipforming allows for the construction of structures with complex shapes and curves, which can be difficult or impossible to achieve using traditional techniques.

Some examples of structures that have been built using slipforming include the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Shanghai Tower in China, and the One World Trade Center in New York City.