Concrete Formwork – Stripping time for sides of beams After how long can the side forms of reinforced concrete beams generally be removed under normal conditions (no frost, ordinary Portland cement), assuming the beam is not loaded and soffit props remain as required?

Introduction / Context:
Side forms to beams primarily retain concrete laterally and do not carry significant bending loads once the concrete sets. Therefore, they can typically be struck earlier than soffit forms or props. Correct timing saves program days without compromising safety or surface quality.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Ordinary Portland cement, moderate ambient temperatures.
• No imposed loads; props to soffit remain as needed.
• We seek an indicative minimum period for sides of beams.

Concept / Approach:
The earliest formwork to be removed is usually that to vertical faces (walls/columns) and the sides of beams, often after about 24 hours, provided the surface is hard enough to avoid damage. Longer periods apply to soffits and to removal of props, which support bending.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify component: sides of beams (not soffit).Adopt standard practice: about 24 hours in normal conditions.Choose option: 1 day.

Verification / Alternative check:
Site QA checks include surface hardness, nail/scratch resistance, and protection of arrises before striking. Many specifications align with ~24 h for sides, longer for soffit.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 4–14 days: unnecessarily long for side forms if conditions are normal.
• 2 days: conservative but not the earliest common standard where 1 day suffices.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing side forms with soffit supports; removing supports prematurely risks deflection and cracking. Cold weather or slow cement require longer times.

Final Answer:
1 day