Shuttering oil plays a crucial role in construction, especially in the process of forming concrete structures. It is a high-quality mineral oil applied to shuttering plates and moulds to ease the removal process and ensure a smooth finish on concrete surfaces. This blog will cover the purpose of shuttering oil, why it’s essential in construction, and a step-by-step method to calculate the quantity and cost for a given project size.
What is Shuttering Oil?
Shuttering oil is a mineral-based releasing agent used in concrete formwork. When applied to shuttering plates or moulds, it prevents concrete from sticking, ensuring an easy deshuttering process and leaving the concrete surface with a clean and smooth finish.
Why Use Shuttering Oil in Formwork?
The main reasons for using shuttering oil in construction are as follows:
- Acts as a Releasing Agent: Shuttering oil forms a barrier between the concrete and the shuttering plates, allowing the formwork to be easily removed without damaging the concrete surface.
- Improves Finish: After deshuttering, the oil helps achieve a smooth, high-quality finish on the concrete surface, making it visually appealing and free from marks or imperfections.
- Extends Shuttering Life: Shuttering oil protects the shuttering plates and moulds, allowing them to be reused multiple times, ultimately saving time and costs on new formwork materials.
Types of Shuttering Used in Construction
There are two primary types of shuttering materials used in construction:
- Wood Shuttering: Often used in small projects, wooden shuttering requires more frequent oiling as it absorbs oil.
- Steel Shuttering: Preferred in large-scale projects due to its durability and reusable properties, steel shuttering requires comparatively less oil.
How to Calculate the Quantity of Shuttering Oil Needed
Calculating the quantity of shuttering oil required depends on the area of the slab or formwork and the type of shuttering material used, as wood and steel have different oil coverage rates. Let’s look at an example for a slab size of 12 m x 10 m.
Step 1: Calculate the Area of the Slab
To find the total area that needs shuttering oil:
Area of slab=Length×Breadth
Given:
- Length = 12 m
- Breadth = 10 m
Area of slab=12 m×10 m=120 m2
Step 2: Determine the Coverage Rate and Calculate the Quantity of Shuttering Oil
Shuttering oil coverage varies with the type of shuttering material:
- Wood Shuttering: 1 litre covers approximately 30 to 40 m².
- Steel Shuttering: 1 litre covers approximately 60 to 70 m².
Let’s calculate the shuttering oil required for both wood and steel options.
For Wood Shuttering:
Using a coverage rate of 1 litre per 30 m²:
For Steel Shuttering:
Using a coverage rate of 1 litre per 60 m²:
Quantity of oil=120/60=2 litres
Pricing Calculation of Shuttering Oil
Once you have the quantity, calculating the price is straightforward. Let’s assume the cost of 1 litre of shuttering oil is Rs. 250.
For Wood Shuttering
Using 4 litres for wood:
Price=4 litres×250 Rs/litre=1000 Rs
For Steel Shuttering
Using 2 litres for steel:
Price=2 litres×250 Rs/litre=500 Rs
Important Considerations When Using Shuttering Oil
When using shuttering oil, there are a few key points to remember:
- Application Method: Shuttering oil should be applied evenly with a brush or spray to avoid pooling, which could cause marks on the concrete.
- Weather Conditions: In hot climates, oil may evaporate quickly, so reapplication might be necessary.
- Quantity Adjustment: Coverage rates can vary slightly based on oil viscosity, temperature, and material type. Adjust as needed for best results.
Conclusion🎯
Shuttering oil is a cost-effective solution in construction projects that require formwork, especially in India’s diverse climate. By acting as a releasing agent, it ensures smooth concrete surfaces, preserves shuttering materials, and contributes to efficient and quality-focused construction practices. Properly estimating the amount of oil and the associated cost based on material type helps optimize project budgeting and reduce wastage.