Build like everybody is watching!
Cobute is committed to building the best structures with its precast concrete shutters for slabs, beams, stairs and edge ribs. The only question is - is it going to be your structure?
Cobute beam system
“Thank you for your help and your beam. I am very happy with the way it is working and the ease of it all. Your products are great and forward thinking!”
The Cobute precast shutters for beams consists of two concrete L-shaped elements, reasonably light (20-37kg per linear meter), with additional steel fixed during the manufacturing process. This ensures that the steel will not be moved during casting while dramatically reducing carpentry costs.
Laboratory tests conducted by the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Cape Town (UCT) on behalf of Cobute in 2004 have shown that R.C. beams constructed using the Cobute precast system have a higher bending moment capacity (approximately 10%) and practically the same shear strength capacity, compared to conventionally cast beams.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Width
As the Cobute beams consist of 2 L members whose soffit goes from 90 to 175 mm, the Cobute precast permanent shutters cover the width from 180 to 350 mm, going through any intermediate size. For width greater than 350 mm, it's possible to introduce a 3rd member or a panel to meet the design requirements
Depth
The height of the side panel goes from 50 to 600 mm max. In case of deeper beams, it's possible to either add extra shutter on side or Cobute can manufacture the beam’s soffit with the steel cast in the factory and the contractor on site will shutter the sides using shutter board.
Installation
Installation simply consists of lifting the two L shaped elements into place and tying them together, using either binding wire or a timber clamp. Since only minimal shuttering and reduced number of props are required (approximately 2m centers), installation is a fast process. A 6 m long beam can be installed, ready for casting, in 30 minutes by 6 construction workers.
Installation layouts are provided to assist the process.
What sets the Cobute beams apart?
They favour timber saving
Promote efficient time management
Shuttering is minimised, no stripping required
Carpentry costs are reduced
Beams longer than 7m can be split along the length, staggering the joint
Minimal steel fixing on site
Off-steel shutter mold finish
When integrated with stairs and decking, the project can be cast in one pour, minimizing risks of cold joints and crack
To learn more, visit out FAQ section or download our brochure. We are always a phone call away!