Feature Formers

Feature Formers

For applications where a traditional trough or waffle former cannot meet the complexities of the design brief, a bespoke feature former solution should be considered. These formwork systems are capable of achieving complex rib configurations in addition to retaining the features normally associated with ribbed slab arrangements.

Manufactured from a wide range of material options, each feature former is made to suit the individual requirements of the project and can be re-used multiple times. When struck, the former, subject to specification, can achieve a good quality finish for exposed applications.

Each former is designed to meet the specific requirements of the project including the size, shape, finish and number of re-uses. Using this information, our designers will select the most appropriate material for each former and create a 3D CAD model for approval, which when accepted will allow CNC machining of the finished formwork solution.

Features

  • Manufactured to meet project specific requirements
  • Available in a wide range of materials
  • CNC machined for consistent, tolerance-controlled surfaces
  • Re-usable where formers of the same size, shape and profile are required
  • Basic, Ordinary, Plain & Special Finishes achievable*

*Please refer to National Structural Concrete Specification (NSCS) Edition 4 guidance available below.

Applications

Used for the construction of cast in-situ, reinforced, ribbed concrete floors with a complex rib arrangement.

Design

Feature Formers

When developing a feature former design, the following factors should be considered in addition to reviewing any CAD drawings, 3D models, specifications etc that are available:

  • Dimensions, geometry and features
  • Required concrete finish (Basic, Ordinary, Plain or Special)
  • Proposed number of uses – single or multiple
  • Loadings – specifically relating to the proposed concrete pour depths
  • External structural support method
  • Delivery method, unloading requirements and access restrictions
  • Positioning, installation and sequence of construction
  • Striking, removal and re-use or disposal

Once the project requirements have been confirmed, a conceptual design can be completed along with provision of a quotation confirming proposed material type, features, quantities, manufacturing lead time and costs.

Materials & Finishes

Feature Formers

Typically, Cordek feature formers are manufactured from one of the following material types:

  • Filcor Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) with Correx skin
  • Filcor EPS with ABS skin
  • Filcor EPS with Sheet Fibreglass skin
  • Filcor EPS with a spray applied Polyurea skin
  • Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP)

One of the factors determining the most appropriate material used to manufacture a feature former is the required concrete finish.

Further information in relation to the classification of concrete finishes can be found within the National Structural Concrete Specification (NSCS) Edition 4 guidance, a copy of which can be downloaded from the Certification, Guidance and Approval section below.

Manufacture

Feature Formers

Once approved, the agreed 3D CAD Model will be converted in to CAM data allowing accurate manufacture of the feature former via CNC hot wire cutting and / or 5-axis routing dependant on factors such as material type, complexity of shape / profile and required tolerances.

In some instances, due to the required dimensions of the feature former, it may comprise of a number of individual units that require assembly on site.

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Downloads

Data Sheets

Product Issue Date Version Size Download
Filcor Data Sheet 01/2024 10 412.3 KB

Standard Details

Product Issue Date Version Size Download

MSDS Data Sheets

Product Issue Date Version Size Download
Expanded Polystyrene MSDS 06/2017 5 137.3 KB

Brochures

Product Issue Date Version Size Download
Construction Solutions 01/2020 2 6.6 MB

NBS Clauses

Our NBS Clauses are hosted on the external website - view NBS Clauses

BIM Library

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Case Study

Baltimore Tower

Cordek designed and supplied a simple and cost effective formwork solution for the cantilevered balconies at Baltimore Tower, a £300m, 45 storey luxury residential development by Baltimore Wharf SLP. The new twisting tower has been billed as an 'iconic new landmark for luxury living' in London.