Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

Under normal conditions using ordinary Portland cement, the period of removal of the form work is:

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: D. All options are correct

Detailed Explanation: Verifying All Three Stripping Time Statements

Why D (All options correct) is correct: Each statement maps directly to a row in the IS 456:2000 formwork stripping table for Ordinary Portland Cement.

IS 456:2000 Reference Table

S.No.Type of FormworkOPC (Minimum Period)RHC (Minimum Period)
1Vertical formwork to columns, walls, beams16–24 hours12 hours
2Soffit formwork to slabs (props refixed immediately)3 days2 days
3Soffit formwork to beams (props refixed immediately)7 days5 days
4aProps to slabs: spanning up to 4.5 m7 days5 days
4bProps to slabs: spanning over 4.5 m14 days10 days
5aProps to beams and arches: spanning up to 6 m14 days10 days
5bProps to beams and arches: spanning over 6 m21 days14 days

Verification of Each Statement

StatementIS 456 ReferenceVerdict
A. 7 days for beam soffitsRow 3: Soffit formwork to beams = 7 days (OPC)Correct
B. 14 days for slabs spanning 4.6 m and moreRow 4b: Props to slabs spanning over 4.5 m = 14 daysCorrect
C. 21 days for beams over 6 m spansRow 5b: Props to beams spanning over 6 m = 21 daysCorrect
  • Longer spans require longer curing before prop removal because the bending moment (and thus required concrete strength) is greater.
  • All three values apply to OPC under normal conditions. Rapid Hardening Cement allows earlier striking.