Mivan shuttering technology is a revolutionary construction method that offers faster, stronger, and more durable structures. Originally developed by a European company named Mivan Company Ltd., this aluminum formwork system has become increasingly popular in high-rise buildings and mass housing projects. It involves a modular formwork system made from lightweight aluminum panels used to cast entire structures—walls, floors, and slabs—on-site in a single operation.
What is Mivan Shuttering Technology?
Mivan shuttering is a type of formwork made from aluminum alloy. Unlike conventional wooden or steel formwork, Mivan uses prefabricated panels designed to fit together like a puzzle. The entire structural framework—walls, columns, beams, slabs—is cast in one go, using monolithic concrete pouring.
Key Features
- Made from high-strength aluminum
- Reusable up to 200 times
- Offers smooth concrete finish
- Reduces need for plastering
The Process of Mivan Shuttering Technology
Step 1: Design and Planning
Panels are designed based on the architectural and structural drawings of the building. Each panel is customized to fit specific sections of the project.
Step 2: Fabrication and Delivery
Once the design is approved, the aluminum formwork is manufactured off-site and delivered to the construction site.
Step 3: Assembly of Formwork
Workers assemble the panels on-site using pins and wedges. The modular design ensures quick and accurate setup.
Step 4: Reinforcement Placement
Rebar is placed within the formwork as per structural requirements before the concrete is poured.
Step 5: Pouring Concrete
Concrete is poured into the fully assembled formwork for walls, floors, and slabs simultaneously. This results in a monolithic structure.
Step 6: Formwork Removal
After the concrete sets, the aluminum panels are removed, cleaned, and reused for the next cycle.
Components of Mivan Formwork System
- Wall Panels: For vertical sections like walls and columns
- Deck Panels: For casting floor slabs
- Beam Soffits: To support beams
- Props and Pins: For alignment and support
- Service Panels: For electrical and plumbing conduits
Uses of Mivan Shuttering Technology
Residential Projects
Ideal for mass housing developments due to its rapid construction capability.
High-Rise Buildings
Perfect for repetitive floor plans, ensuring uniformity and speed.
Commercial Spaces
Used in offices and malls where quick project turnaround is required.
Infrastructure Projects
Adopted in metro stations, airports, and institutional buildings for durability and finish.
Benefits of Mivan Shuttering Technology
1. Speedy Construction
The pre-engineered formwork and monolithic casting reduce construction time significantly.
2. High-Quality Finish
Produces smooth, uniform concrete surfaces, minimizing the need for plastering.
3. Cost-Effective in Long Term
While initial investment is high, reusability of the panels makes it cost-effective over multiple uses.
4. Structural Durability
Monolithic concrete casting improves structural integrity and seismic resistance.
5. Minimal Labor Dependency
Reduces dependence on skilled carpentry labor due to modular, easy-to-install panels.
6. Environment-Friendly
Aluminum is recyclable, and reduced plastering means less cement and sand consumption.
Limitations of Mivan Shuttering
- High initial setup cost
- Not economical for low-rise or single-house projects
- Limited design flexibility
- Requires precision and trained labor for best results
Comparison: Mivan vs Traditional Shuttering
| Feature | Mivan Shuttering | Traditional Shuttering |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum | Wood or Steel |
| Speed | Very Fast | Moderate to Slow |
| Finish Quality | High | Moderate |
| Labor Requirement | Less | High |
| Reusability | Up to 200 times | Limited |
| Cost | High Initial, Low Long-Term | Low Initial, High Long-Term |
Suitability of Mivan Technology
Best Suited For:
- Mass housing schemes
- Government housing projects
- Repetitive structure designs
- Tall buildings with tight deadlines
Not Ideal For:
- Custom-designed houses
- Irregular floor layouts
- Small-scale residential projects
Mivan Shuttering in India
In India, Mivan technology has been embraced by both public and private sectors. Large-scale affordable housing projects under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) often use Mivan technology to meet construction targets.
FAQs on Mivan Shuttering Technology
Is Mivan shuttering expensive?
The initial cost is high, but long-term reusability makes it cost-effective for large projects.
How many times can Mivan formwork be reused?
The aluminum panels can be reused up to 200 times if maintained properly.
Does it reduce construction time?
Yes, the integrated casting of walls and slabs speeds up construction significantly.
Can it be used for small buildings?
It is not cost-effective for small or single-unit buildings due to high setup costs.
What type of concrete is used?
Typically, high-flow, self-compacting concrete (SCC) is used to ensure full coverage within the formwork.
Conclusion
Mivan shuttering technology is a game-changer for large-scale construction, offering unmatched speed, quality, and efficiency. It’s best suited for repetitive, high-volume construction projects where time and quality are critical. While it may not be ideal for custom or small-scale buildings, the benefits in urban and infrastructure development make it a vital part of modern construction practices.
