ILPA - FAQ Formwork Panels
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What are formwork panels?
Formwork panels are temporary structural elements used in construction to contain and shape fresh concrete. They function as a mould: the concrete is poured inside the formwork, which defines its shape until it hardens. For more information, see the Formwork page.
In which applications are formwork panels used?
Formwork panels are used in the construction of walls, columns, slabs, foundations, tunnels, bridges and any reinforced concrete structure. They are employed in both residential construction and large-scale infrastructure projects.
What is the difference between a formwork panel and generic plywood?
A formwork panel is specifically designed to withstand concrete pressure, abrasion, moisture and the chemical agents in cement. Unlike generic plywood, it features specialised surface coatings and water-resistant bonding, and is optimised for multiple reuses.
What determines the quality of the concrete surface?
The surface finish of the concrete depends directly on the quality and condition of the panel. A panel with a smooth, intact surface produces concrete with a uniform finish. Composite panels with plastic coating guarantee the best surface finishes.
ILPA PRODUCTS
What is the difference between STRATO-STOCK®, FIR-STOCK® and PUR-STOCK®?
STRATO-STOCK® is ILPA's original composite panel with a birch plywood core and polyolefin coating – maximum strength and durability. FIR-STOCK® combines a three-layer spruce core with the same plastic coating – lighter and more economical. PUR-STOCK® adds to these technologies a perimeter protection made of high-pressure injected polyurethane, which seals the edges against moisture infiltration.
What makes ILPA's plastic coating technology unique?
ILPA patented the application of polyolefin coatings on formwork panels in 1994. Unlike traditional phenolic film, polyolefins offer up to 10 times greater abrasion resistance, total impermeability, excellent chemical resistance and the ability to nail without chipping.
What is PUR-STOCK® perimeter protection?
It is a protective polyurethane edge injected at high pressure along the entire perimeter of the panel. This technology, patented in 2017, completely seals the cross-sections of the wood, eliminating the most vulnerable point of traditional panels: moisture infiltration through the edges.
What sizes are ILPA panels available in?
ILPA panels are available in the standard sizes required by the major international formwork systems. For the specific dimensions of each product, please refer to the respective pages: STRATO-STOCK®, FIR-STOCK®, PUR-STOCK®, Cassero.
PERFORMANCE AND USE
How many reuse cycles can I achieve?
The number of cycles depends on the panel type, conditions of use and proper maintenance. Composite panels with plastic coating achieve a significantly higher number of cycles compared to traditional panels with phenolic film. The perimeter protection of PUR-STOCK® further extends the service life.
How should I prepare the panel before pouring?
Apply a uniform layer of release agent on the panel surface. Panels with polyolefin coating require less release agent than traditional panels, resulting in cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
Can ILPA panels be cut and adapted on site?
Yes, all ILPA panels can be cut with standard site equipment. After cutting, it is advisable to seal the exposed edges to maintain moisture protection. PUR-STOCK® panels offer the advantage of integrated perimeter protection on the original edges.
How can I extend the service life of the panels?
Clean the panels after each use, removing concrete residues. Store panels horizontally, sheltered from the weather. Always apply release agent before pouring. Avoid heavy mechanical impacts on edges and corners.
SUSTAINABILITY AND CERTIFICATIONS
Are ILPA panels FSC® and PEFC™ certified?
Yes, ILPA exclusively uses wood sourced from FSC® and PEFC™ certified sources, which guarantee the responsible management of the forests of origin. The certified chain of custody ensures complete traceability from the forest to the finished product.
Are ILPA panels recyclable?
Yes, ILPA panels are fully recyclable. At end of life, the wood components can be used for thermal energy recovery or transformed into wood-based panels, while the plastic coatings can be sent separately for recycling. For more information, see the Sustainable Construction page.
What does it mean that ILPA products are REACH compliant?
The European REACH regulation ensures the protection of human health and the environment from the risks of chemical substances. REACH compliance of ILPA products certifies that all materials and substances used in production meet the most stringent European safety standards.
How does ILPA contribute to environmental sustainability?
ILPA operates with a circular economy approach: 100% of wood residues from production are used to generate thermal energy through a biomass plant, eliminating the need for fossil fuels for heating. Approximately 50% of the electricity requirement is covered by the company's photovoltaic system.
ORDERS AND SUPPORT
How can I request a quote?
You can request a quote by contacting ILPA directly through the Contact page. The sales team is available to provide personalised advice based on the specific needs of your project.
Does ILPA offer technical support?
Yes, ILPA makes its technical know-how available to support customers in choosing the most suitable panel for their specific conditions of use. The company has been collaborating for decades with the leading formwork system manufacturers at an international level.
Is it possible to request product samples?
Yes, it is possible to request samples of ILPA products to evaluate their characteristics. Contact the sales department through the Contact page.
Where can I download product technical data sheets?
Technical data sheets for all ILPA products are available in the Download section of the Products menu. To access them, click on "Products" in the navigation menu and select "Download".