Helpful Tips for Maintenance of Shuttering Plywood -

1. Clean Regularly & oil:  Remove any concrete residue or debris from the plywood surface, oil the surface after every use.
2. Use Protective Coatings:  Apply sealants and release agents to enhance durability.
3. Avoid Overloading:  Follow weight limits to prevent bending.
4. Repair Damage Immediately:  Patch small cracks and replace severely damaged panels.
5. Lift with Care: Lift plywood sheets carefully, avoiding dropping or dragging them.
6. Store Flat & Properly: Keep elevated and flat in a dry, well-ventilated area. Ensure the plywood is completely dry before storing. Store plywood sheets flat to prevent warping and damage.
7. Use the Right Nails: Use galvanized nails specifically designed for plywood to prevent rust and damage to the wood.
8. Proper Spacing: Space nails evenly to ensure adequate support and prevent warping.
9. Use the Right Drill Bit: Use a sharp, high-quality drill bit designed for wood. A Forstner bit can be ideal for clean, precise holes.
10. Avoid Over-Drilling: Drill only as deep as necessary to avoid splitting the plywood.

By following these tips, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your shuttering plywood and ensure its optimal performance on future projects.

1.  Versatility : 

• Wide Range of Applications: Suitable for both residential and large-scale commercial projects
• Ease of Use: Simple to work with, making it a popular choice among construction professionals.

2.  Cost-Effectiveness:

3.  Economic Growth:

4.  Rising Living Standards:

5.  Government Policies and Incentives

Shuttering plywood is typically manufactured in the following steps:

1. Veneer Preparation & Selection: The type of wood used for the veneers can vary depending on the desired properties of the shuttering plywood. Common types of wood include poplar, beech, and birch. Thin layers of wood, called veneers, are prepared from logs. The veneers are peeled from the logs using a rotary lathe or a veneer clipper.

2. Gluing: The veneers are bonded together using a waterproof phenolic resin adhesive. The adhesive is applied to each veneer layer, which is pressed together under high pressure and heat. The phenolic resin adhesive used in shuttering plywood is a highly durable synthetic resin that is resistant to moisture. It is typically formulated with formaldehyde.

3. Layering: The graded & glued veneers are arranged in alternating layers, with the grain direction of each layer perpendicular to the adjacent layer. This cross-ply construction enhances the plywood's strength and stability.

4. Curing: The glued plywood is cured in a hot press to set the adhesive and create a strong bond between the veneers.

5. Trimming and Finishing: The cured plywood is trimmed to the desired size and shape. It may also be sanded, edged, and coated with a protective finish.

The specific manufacturing process may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and the desired properties of the shuttering plywood.

Marine Plywood :-

1. Purpose: Primarily used in marine applications, such as boats, ships, and docks, where it is exposed to harsh weather conditions and moisture.
2. Construction: Made from high-quality hardwood veneers bonded with waterproof glue.
3. Properties: Known for its exceptional water resistance, rot resistance, and durability.
4. Applications: Besides marine use, it is also suitable for outdoor structures exposed to moisture, such as decks, fences, and sheds.

Shuttering Plywood :-

1. Purpose: Primarily used in the construction industry for formwork, which is used to shape concrete structures.
2. Construction: Made from hardwood or softwood veneers bonded with a phenolic resin adhesive.
3. Properties: Offers excellent strength, durability, and moisture resistance.
4. Applications: Primarily used in construction for forming walls, slabs, columns, and beams.

In summary, while both marine plywood and shuttering plywood are strong and durable, they are designed for different applications and have specific characteristics to meet those needs.

     1. Sheet Sizes: -

(a)  4x8 Feet (1.22x2.44 Meters): This is one of the most common sizes for shuttering plywood, used widely in various construction applications.
(b)  5x10 Feet (1.52x3.05 Meters): This larger size is also available and can reduce the number of joints and seams in formwork. 
(c)  4x10 Feet (1.22x3.05 Meters): Slightly larger than the standard 4x8 feet, this size can also cover more area with fewer sheets.

(a)  12mm (1/2 Inch): Commonly used for lighter formwork or smaller projects. 
(b)  18mm (3/4 Inch): A popular thickness for general-purpose shuttering, providing a good balance between strength and weight.
(c)  21mm (7/8 Inch): Used for heavier-duty applications where additional strength is required.

1. Custom Sizes: Depending on specific project requirements, plywood can be cut to custom sizes. This is useful for specialized formwork or non-standard applications.

2. Other Thicknesses: 15mm (5/8 Inch) and 22mm (7/8 Inch): Less common but available for specific needs or where additional strength is required.

3. Overlays and Coatings: Shuttering plywood may come with different surface treatments, such as a phenolic film overlay, which helps to reduce concrete adhesion and improve the finish of the concrete surface.

4. Strength and Load-Bearing: The plywood's dimensions and thickness should match the formwork's load-bearing requirements. 

5. Transport and Handling: Larger sheets may be more difficult to handle and transport, so choosing the right size based on the project scale and available resources is important.

The choice of shuttering plywood, also known as formwork plywood, has a significant impact on the quality of the final concrete finish. Here’s a detailed look at how different factors related to shuttering plywood affect the outcome:

Face Quality & Smoothness : The face veneer of the plywood should be free from defects like knots, voids, or uneven grain. Defective surfaces can leave marks or imperfections on the concrete. High-quality shuttering plywood is manufactured to have a smooth surface.

Moisture Resistance : Shuttering plywood needs to be properly sealed to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the wet concrete. If the plywood absorbs moisture, it can swell and deform, which can adversely affect the concrete surface and formwork stability.

Durability and Strength : The plywood must be strong enough to support the weight and pressure of the wet concrete without warping or bending. If the plywood deforms under the load, it can cause irregularities in the concrete surface. Shuttering plywood is often used multiple times. High-quality, durable plywood will withstand repeated use and cleaning better, maintaining a consistent finish over time.

Release Agents : The type of release agent used with the plywood should be compatible with the plywood material. Using the correct release agent helps in the easy removal of the formwork without sticking or damaging the concrete surface.

Formwork Joints and Edges : Plywood panels should be cut and joined precisely to avoid gaps or misalignments in the formwork. Gaps or misalignments can result in concrete leakage or surface irregularities. Proper edge treatment of the plywood is essential to prevent concrete from seeping through joints and creating imperfections on the surface.

Cleanliness and Maintenance :  The plywood should be kept clean and free of concrete residues. Residue on the formwork can affect the release agent's performance and the final finish of the concrete.

In summary, high-quality shuttering plywood with a smooth surface, proper sealing, adequate strength, and precise jointing will produce a better concrete finish. Proper maintenance and the right choice of materials and release agents are also crucial for achieving a high-quality result.

BWP (Boiling Waterproof) Plywood -

SPECIALITIES-

• Moisture Resistance: Designed to withstand prolonged exposure to water, making it highly durable in wet conditions.
• Adhesives: Uses high-quality phenolic resins that prevent delamination even when submerged or exposed to high humidity.
• Suitability for- High Moisture Conditions: Ideal for outdoor formwork or environments with heavy moisture, such as rainy or humid areas.
• Durability: Suitable for repeated use in large projects due to its resilience and ability to maintain integrity over time.
• Finish Quality: Provides a smooth surface, reducing the need for additional finishing on concrete.

WBP (Weather and Boil Proof) Plywood-

SPECIALITIES-

• Weather Resistance: Designed to resist weather and boiling water but not as robust as BWP.
• Adhesives: Uses resin adhesives that offer good moisture resistance, though not as strong as BWP.
• Suitability for: Moderate Moisture Exposure: Good for formwork exposed to occasional rain or damp conditions. Less expensive than BWP.
• Cost-Effectiveness: More budget-friendly while still providing decent durability and moisture resistance.
• Finish Quality: Provides a satisfactory surface but may require additional finishing to achieve a smooth concrete surface.

Lower-Grade Plywood (A-C, B-C) -

SPECIALITIES-

•  Moisture Resistance: Not specifically designed for high moisture conditions, more suitable for controlled indoor environments.
• Cost: Generally cheaper but may lack the necessary durability for harsh conditions.
• Suitability for: Best for indoor formwork where moisture exposure is minimal.
• Finish Quality: Can have surface imperfections, potentially requiring extra work to achieve a smooth concrete finish.

In summary, BWP is best for high-moisture and repeated use, WBP for moderate conditions and cost efficiency and and lower grades for controlled indoor applications. Choose based on exposure conditions, frequency of use, and required finish quality.

Different Applications of Shuttering Plywood - Below are the different uses or ways the shuttering plywood can be used-

• Supporting concrete structures in buildings-

Shuttering plywood is commonly used in the construction industry- from large-scale commercial buildings to small-scale home repairs. They are used for forming and supporting concrete structures during the pour and curing process. It is typically used as a formwork for building foundations, columns, walls, ceilings, floors, and other structures. It is also perfect for creating custom shapes and sizes for a variety of applications.

• Creating formwork for tunnel linings, dams, and bridges-

Shuttering plywood is used for creating formwork for megastructure or civil infrastructure projects. Structures like structural steel frames, tunnel linings, dams, and bridges, and for forming manholes and catch basins use shuttering plywood.

• Construction of temporary structures and fencing-

Shuttering plywood is an economically viable option for temporary fences, hoarding, and other temporary structures. So, shuttering plywood finds uses in other industries also like furniture, interior design, automotive, and advertisements.

• Soundproofing and thermal insulation-

Not only for construction purposes but shuttering plywood can also be used for soundproofing and thermal insulation applications.

The versatility of shuttering plywood makes it an indispensable material in the construction industry, contributing to the creation of robust and durable structures.

1. Proper Storage: Store plywood in a dry, covered area to protect it from moisture and weather conditions. Keep it elevated off the ground to avoid contact with soil and water.

2. Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the plywood to remove any concrete residue, dirt, or debris and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

3. Drying: Ensure that the plywood is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can cause the plywood to warp or degrade over time.

4. Proper Handling: Handle the plywood carefully to avoid damage. Use appropriate lifting techniques and avoid dropping or banging the panels.

5. Avoid Excessive Load: Don’t overload the plywood during use. Excessive weight or stress can cause it to crack or break, reducing its lifespan.

6. Use Release Agents: When using plywood for concrete formwork, apply a release agent to prevent concrete from sticking and causing damage to the plywood.

7. Seal Joints and Edges: Seal the joints and edges of the plywood with a waterproof adhesive or sealant. This can help prevent moisture from seeping into the plywood and causing damage.

8. Avoid Extreme Conditions: Protect the plywood from extreme temperatures and conditions, such as intense sunlight or freezing temperatures. These conditions can cause the plywood to warp or degrade more quickly.

9. Repair Damage Promptly: Address any cracks, splits, or other damage to the plywood as soon as you notice them. Small issues can often be repaired with wood filler or adhesive, preventing them from worsening.

10. Maintain Adequate Ventilation: Ensure that the storage area is well-ventilated to help the plywood dry quickly and evenly. Proper ventilation can also reduce the risk of mold and mildew.

By incorporating these additional measures into your care routine, you can further extend the life of your shuttering plywood and get the most value from your investment.

Shuttering plywood (also known as Film Faced Shuttering plywood) in construction is crucial for creating concrete forms. However, there are eight common mistakes that can lead to issues with the final construction:

Incorrect Plywood: Using commercial plywood of inappropriate grade can result in poor formwork quality. Need to always use 100% High Densified, BWP grade film faced shuttering plywood.

Inadequate Support: Failing to provide proper bracing and support can lead to formwork failure or deformation. The support system should be designed to handle the load of wet concrete and the construction environment.

Poor Sealing and Finishing: Not sealing the plywood properly before pouring concrete can lead to the plywood absorbing moisture, which can affect the quality of the concrete surface. Additionally, rough or uneven surfaces on the plywood can leave marks on the concrete.

Improper Joint Alignment: Misaligned joints between plywood sheets can create gaps or irregularities in the concrete formwork, leading to defects in the final concrete structure.

Neglecting Maintenance: Not maintaining the plywood properly between uses can lead to deterioration and reduced effectiveness. Plywood should be cleaned, repaired, and properly stored to extend its lifespan.

Overloading: Overloading the formwork with excessive weight can cause deformation or failure. Proper calculation of the load-bearing capacity is essential.

Inadequate Fastening: Using insufficient or incorrect fasteners can lead to formwork instability. Ensure that all connections are secure and appropriate for the load they will bear.

Avoiding these mistakes involves careful planning, proper material selection, and regular inspections during the construction process.

Introduction

Shuttering plywood plays a crucial role in construction projects worldwide, particularly in forming concrete structures. Its robustness, ease of use, and versatility make it a staple material for builders and contractors. However, like many construction materials, the price of shuttering plywood is subject to fluctuation due to various economic, environmental, and market factors. Understanding these factors is essential to grasp why prices may increase over time.

Factors Influencing the Price of Shuttering Plywood

1. Raw Material Costs: Shuttering plywood is predominantly made from wood, typically sourced from trees such as pine, spruce, Eucalyptus or fir. The cost of these raw materials forms a significant part of the overall production expenses. Factors influencing raw material costs include:

• Timber Prices: Fluctuations in the prices of timber can stem from changes in supply and demand dynamics, environmental policies affecting logging practices, and natural disasters impacting forests. For instance, a severe wildfire season could reduce timber supply and drive up prices.
• Availability and Accessibility: Accessibility to timber-rich areas, transportation costs, and regulations governing forestry practices can all affect the availability and cost of raw materials for plywood production.

• Transportation Costs: Rising fuel prices or logistical challenges can lead to increased transportation costs, impacting the final price of plywood delivered to construction sites.

• Construction Boom: During periods of rapid urbanization or infrastructure development, such as government-led construction projects or private sector investments, demand for plywood increases, exerting upward pressure on prices.
• Seasonal Variations: Construction activity often follows seasonal patterns, with peak demand during favorable weather conditions. This cyclic demand can influence plywood prices seasonally.

4. Regulatory and Environmental Factors:  Government regulations and environmental policies can affect plywood production and pricing:

• Environmental Regulations: Stringent regulations on sustainable forestry practices, forest certification requirements (like FSC certification), and restrictions on logging in protected areas can limit timber supply and increase costs.
• Trade Policies: Changes in trade policies, tariffs, or international agreements affecting timber imports can disrupt supply chains and impact plywood prices.

5. Global Events and Trends: Global events and market trends can have ripple effects on plywood prices:

• Pandemics and Natural Disasters: Events like the COVID-19 pandemic or natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes can disrupt supply chains, affecting raw material availability and pushing up prices.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Political instability or trade disputes between countries can lead to trade disruptions, affecting the availability and cost of plywood raw materials sourced internationally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the increased price of shuttering plywood depends of many factors. The positive sign is that the rising price is being accepted by the market, pushing the sector. The report indicates that the real estate and construction sectors have helped the sector with rising demand for shuttering plywood, as the increased prices have been accepted by the trade every time.

In the last three months, the prices of shuttering plywood have increased to approx. Rs 8 to 10 per square foot in consecutive phases, and a nearly 25% rise in the price range in the last two years.

In total, after several rises, the shuttering plywood price has reached approx. Rs 56/sqft of 30 kg basis, which was nearly Rs 42/sqft two years ago. The experts say that the price of shuttering plywood may increase by 10 % in the near future.

About Shuttering Plywood

Shuttering plywood, also known as Film Faced Shuttering plywood or Red Ply, plays a crucial role in the construction industry, particularly in the casting of concrete structures. It serves as a temporary mold into which concrete is poured and allowed to set, forming the desired shape and structure of buildings, bridges, dams, and other infrastructural elements. The choice of shuttering plywood significantly impacts the quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of construction projects.

Characteristics Shuttering Plywood in Construction :

1. Strength and Durability:   Shuttering plywood is engineered to withstand the substantial weight and pressure exerted by wet concrete during pouring. Its strength prevents bending or warping, ensuring the integrity of the formwork until the concrete sets.
2. Smooth Surface Finish:   The smooth surface of shuttering plywood facilitates a uniform finish on the concrete surface. This feature is crucial for achieving aesthetically pleasing results in architectural and structural concrete elements.
3. Reusability:   High-quality shuttering plywood can be reused multiple times, making it a cost-effective choice for construction projects. Proper handling and maintenance extend its lifespan, providing significant savings over the long term.
4. Ease of Handling:   Compared to alternatives such as metal or plastic formwork, shuttering plywood is lightweight and easier to transport, handle, and install on-site. This characteristic enhances efficiency and reduces labor costs during construction.
5. Customizability:   Shuttering plywood can be easily cut and shaped according to specific project requirements. This versatility allows for the creation of complex formwork configurations, adapting to diverse architectural and structural designs.
6. Water Resistance:   Shuttering plywood is typically treated with waterproof adhesives and coatings, enhancing its resistance to moisture. This property is essential for maintaining the formwork's strength and durability under varying weather conditions.

Benefits of Shuttering Plywood in Construction:- 

1. Structural Integrity and Performance:  Shuttering plywood ensures the structural integrity of concrete elements during the casting process. Its robust construction and high load-bearing capacity support the weight of wet concrete without deformation. This capability is critical for constructing durable and resilient buildings and infrastructure.
2. Quality of Concrete Finish: The smooth surface of shuttering plywood imparts a high-quality finish to concrete surfaces. It minimizes imperfections and irregularities, resulting in uniform textures and appearances across exposed concrete surfaces. This aesthetic appeal enhances the overall visual appeal and architectural value of constructed structures.
3. Cost Efficiency:  The reusability of shuttering plywood reduces material costs and waste associated with formwork systems. By investing in durable shuttering plywood, construction companies can achieve significant savings over multiple construction projects. The cost-effectiveness of shuttering plywood extends beyond material expenses to include labor efficiencies and project timelines.
4. Operational Efficiency: Lightweight and easy-to-handle shuttering plywood streamlines construction operations. Its manageable weight simplifies transportation, installation, and dismantling processes on construction sites. This operational efficiency translates into reduced labor requirements, accelerated project timelines, and enhanced overall productivity.
5. Adaptability to Complex Designs:  Shuttering plywood's versatility allows it to conform to diverse architectural and structural designs. It can be tailored to create intricate shapes, curves, and geometries in concrete formwork. This adaptability enables architects and engineers to realize creative visions and innovative construction solutions without compromising structural integrity or construction efficiency.
6. Environmental Sustainability: The reusability and recyclability of shuttering plywood contribute to environmental sustainability in construction practices. By minimizing material consumption and waste generation, shuttering plywood reduces the ecological footprint of construction projects. Sustainable construction practices supported by shuttering plywood promote responsible resource management and conservation.

SHUTTERING PLYWOOD (Red Film Faced Plywood):

1. Used for:  Making molds in construction work for pouring concrete.
2.  Strength: Strong and tough to handle the weight and pressure of wet concrete.
3.  Surface: Smooth surface to help concrete set evenly.
4.  Water Resistance: Resists moisture to prevent damage from wet concrete.
5.  Durability: Designed to be used multiple times for concrete jobs.

COMMERCIAL PLYWOOD:

HESA is a perfect Shuttering Plywood that gives you more & more repetitions in Compare to other ordinary Shuttering Plywood's. HESA Film Face Shuttering Plywood has 100% PF Resin, Eucalyptus Core, And High Glossy Film Face, which gives you more strength High Density, and Smooth Mirror Finish.

1. Available in 12 mm & 18 mm Thickness
2. Available in 30, 34, 45 & 50 kg Weight 

"क्वालिटी है दमदार 
मिले बेमिसाल मजबूती हर बार "

AK Panels Pvt. Ltd. is leading Shuttering Plywood Manufactures in India.  Owing to our competitive rates and ability to fulfill the requirement of customers and provide delivery as soon as possible. Shuttering Plywood is highly densified Fil faced plywood with smooth mirror finish on both sides of the plywood.

The primary use of this type of plywood is for cement form-work during construction. AK PANELS PVT. LTD takes to order in bulk and urgent orders of patron’s at least possible time-period; we have our dealers in every state of India. Shuttering Plywood is commonly used to make the ceiling, walls, drains, highways, pillars, etc. The main benefit of shuttering plywood is that, it forms a mold which is weather resistant and will not stick to the concrete itself.

If you are looking for best Shuttering Plywood Manufacturer, so try once our (AK PANELS PVT. LTD) shuttering ply, we sure you will never leave our hand because we understand our customers demand and make a high quality shuttering ply which makes your construction perfect. Everyone knows that higher the density gives more repetitions. A High Densified Shuttering Plywood, can deliver more & more slabs without getting swollen or splitting due to water absorption.

In India the following standard grades are highly demanded, which are also we manufacture at our plant.

HESA Shuttering plywood is a term quite commonly used in the construction industry. The shuttering process – pouring the concrete into moulds – cannot happen without using shuttering plywood.This is a kind of plywood that is designed in a way to prevent concrete from coming out of the mould. This material is not used for aesthetic purposes, but to hold concrete till it densifies to form a solid structure. It is weather-resistant and doesn’t stick to the concrete itself.

It is like any other plywood or wooden panel, created using thin veneers layered on top of each other and glued together. Veneers are laid in such a way that their grains run perpendicular to each other. If constructed properly, they have high strength. This kind of construction ensures that they are high in strength and would not split when used for construction. Shuttering plywood manufacturers provide these materials in different thickness and sizes to meet different construction demands.

As understood, shuttering plywood is used for outdoor applications. So, they are naturally water-resistant, do not warp or rot. Also, the glue used to make the shuttering plywood is resistant to water penetration to ensure strength and durability. This kind of plywood can be reused, albeit with some precautions. They should be cleaned carefully and stored in a cool, dry place.

Shuttering plywood can also have a smooth and attractive outer veneer of higher quality than those used in the inside layers. This type of surface is usually needed for clean and attractive construction where aesthetic matters the most. However, plywood requires regular sanding and finishing after every use. Shuttering plywood that doesn’t feature a clean surface is not meant for aesthetic purposes. It is less expensive than the polished ones.

Construction professionals use temporary wood or metal supports to hold shuttering plywood in place. Once the plywood is in place, concrete is poured into the mould to give it the desired shape. 12mm shuttering ply is quite popular in the construction industry for moulding concrete.

Advantages of HESA Shuttering plywood-

• Strong and rigid panels
• Smooth durable overlays
• Favorable weight to strength ratio
• Minimal deflection due to exceptional stiffness
• High Density and scratch resistance
• Weather and boil-proof bonding
• Easy to clean and re-use
• Easy to handle on-site
• Easy to handle with conventional woodworking tools.
• Can withstand impacts and other forms of bruising
• Environment friendly.

Apart from these manufacturing factors, there’s also the usage factor which also matters a lot in delivering higher repetitions. For example, before each application, these panels’ surfaces have to be coated with oil to give a better finish as well as render the panel some resistance against the corrosive effect of cement & water. If not coated with oil, the film coating of the panels starts to wear off real soon.

Another important lookout at the construction site is to seal any cut ply’s edges with acrylic paint to ensure water doesn’t find its way inside the ply. If not done properly, water tends to seep inside the core layers of the ply therefore allowing for absorption, bulging and finally splitting of the core layers due to weakened bonding which will in effect make the panel useless. I hope all this helps in getting a better understanding.

For More Info.  

1.    12mm - 30Kg - Good for 10 - 12 Repetitions or it’s depends on handling.

2.    12mm - 34Kg - Good for 12 - 15 Repetitions or it’s depends on handling.

3.    18mm – 45Kg - Good for up to 15 - 17 Repetitions or it’s depends on handling.

4.    18mm - 50Kg - Good for 17 - 20+ Repetitions or it’s depends on handling.