Both types of plates, typically made of durable materials like mild steel (M.S.), are temporary molds (or formwork). Once the concrete gains sufficient strength, the plates are removed (a process called stripping).
Benefits of Using Steel Plates
Using steel plates (M.S. Plates) over traditional wood or plywood for formwork offers several advantages:
Durability and Reuse: They are long-lasting and can be reused many times, making them cost-effective for large projects.
Dimensional Accuracy: They ensure a high degree of precision in the final concrete shape.
Smooth Finish: The concrete surface visible after removal is typically very smooth, reducing the need for extensive further finishing work.
Watertight: They prevent the seepage of cement slurry from the wet concrete, which helps to increase the final strength of the structure.