IS 49902011AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Plywood for concrete shuttering work - Specification

IS 4990:2011 specifies the requirements for plywood used in concrete shuttering work, ensuring durability, strength, and surface quality under wet and dry conditions. This standard applies to manufacturers, suppliers, and engineers involved in producing or using preservative-treated plywood designed to withstand the stresses of concrete formwork, including repeated use and exposure to moisture.

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Wood and other Lignocellulosic productsCategory
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What This Standard Covers

IS 4990:2011 specifies the requirements for plywood used in concrete shuttering work, ensuring durability, strength, and surface quality under wet and dry conditions. This standard applies to manufacturers, suppliers, and engineers involved in producing or using preservative-treated plywood designed to withstand the stresses of concrete formwork, including repeated use and exposure to moisture.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Civil Engineers
  • Structural Engineers
  • Construction Project Managers
  • Formwork Designers
  • Plywood Manufacturers
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Building Material Suppliers

Key Topics Covered

Material specifications for concrete shuttering plywood
Preservative treatment and adhesive requirements
Dimensions, thickness, and tolerances
Mechanical properties including glue shear strength and adhesion
Water resistance and durability tests
Surface finish and coating with plastic overlays or mould oil
Scarf jointing and panel assembly methods
Handling, storage, and maintenance guidelines
Design and use of shuttering formers and frameworks
Eco-mark certification requirements
Testing procedures for plywood quality
Recommended timber species for plywood manufacture

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 4990 Scope - Key Specifications & Tables

IS 4990 covers structural plywood used in construction, specifying mechanical properties, testing, and quality criteria.

Key Tables:

1. Minimum Average Failing Load & Wood Failure (Table 1)

Wood Failure %Dry Load (N)Water Resistance (N)Micro-organism Resistance (N)
No req.≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250–1349900–999900–999
≥ 801100–1249800–899800–899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800

2. Static Bending Strength (Table 2)

DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min Indiv (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min Indiv (N/mm²)
Along750067005045
Across400036003027

3. Wet Bending Strength (Table 3)

PropertyAlong Face GrainAcross Face Grain
MOE Avg (N/mm²)37502000
MOE Min Indiv34001800
MOR Avg (N/mm²)2515
MOR Min Indiv2213

Additional Notes:

  • Use IS 2:1960 for rounding off test values.
  • For architectural curved forms, design per Clause E-5.3.
  • Refer to Annex A for related standards and updates.

flowchart LR
    A[Structural Plywood] --> B[Mechanical Properties]
    B --> C[Failing Load & Wood Failure]
    B --> D[Static Bending Strength]
   
2References

IS 4990 Key References: Structural Plywood Properties & Design


1. Structural Plywood Strength Requirements (Table 1)

Wood Failure (%)Dry State Load (N)Water Resistance Load (N)Micro-organism Resistance Load (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250 - 1349900 - 999900 - 999
≥ 801100 - 1249800 - 899800 - 899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800

2. Static Bending Strength (Table 2)

Grain DirectionMOE Average (N/mm²)MOE Min Individual (N/mm²)MOR Average (N/mm²)MOR Min Individual (N/mm²)
Along Grain750067005045
Across Grain400036003027

3. Wet Bending Strength (Table 3)

PropertyAlong Face GrainAcross Face Grain
MOE Average (N/mm²)37502000
MOE Min Individual (N/mm²)34001800
MOR Average (N/mm²)2515
MOR Min Individual (N/mm²)2213

4. Additional Notes:

  • Use E-5.3 data for curved architectural concrete formers.
  • Refer to Annex A for related standards; always check for latest editions.
  • Round off test values per IS 2:1960 rules, matching significant digits.

This concise data aids in plywood formwork design and quality control per IS 4990.

3Definitions

IS 4990 Key Definitions & Specifications (Referencing IS 707)

1. Definitions

  • As per IS 4990, all definitions are adopted from IS 707 (Plywood Specification).

2. Loading & Deflection (Clause 5.2, Table E-5.2)

Centre Distance of Bearers (mm)Max Load for 9 mm Plywood (kg/m²)Max Load for 12 mm Plywood (kg/m²)
30012701950
400540850
450320640
600170360
  • Max deflection allowed: 1/270th of span.
  • Face grain of plywood must be perpendicular to bearers' length.

3. Structural Strength Requirements

Table 1: Wet Bending Strength (Clause 10.1.3.1.1)
Wood Failure %Dry Load (N)Water Resistance (N)Micro-organism Resistance (N)
No req.≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250–1349900–999900–999
≥ 801100–1249800–899800–899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800
Table 2: Static Bending Strength (MOE & MOR)
Grain DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min (N/mm²)
Along grain750067005045
Across grain400036003027
Table 3: Wet Bending Strength (MOE & MOR)

| Property | Along Face

4Materials

IS 4990 - Key Formulas, Tables & Specifications for Materials (Structural Plywood)


1. Glue Shear Strength (Clause 10.1.3.1.1)

Average Wood Failure (%)Dry State (N)Resistance to Water (N)Resistance to Micro-organisms (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250 - 1349900 - 999900 - 999
≥ 801100 - 1249800 - 899800 - 899
Failed< 1100< 800< 800

2. Static Bending Strength (Modulus of Elasticity & Rupture) (Table 2)

Grain DirectionMOE Average (N/mm²)MOE Min Individual (N/mm²)MOR Average (N/mm²)MOR Min Individual (N/mm²)
Along grain750067005045
Across grain400036003027

3. Wet Bending Strength (Table 3)

PropertyAlong Face Grain (N/mm²)Across Face Grain (N/mm²)
MOE Average37502000
MOE Min Individual34001800
MOR Average2515
MOR Min Individual2213

Notes:

  • Tests per IS 1734 (Part 4) for glue shear strength.
  • Conditions: Room temp 27 ± 2°C, samples tested dry, wet, or boiled.
  • Use E-5.3 data for architectural concrete curved form design (Clause 6.8).

flowchart TD
    A[
5Timber Species

IS 4990: Timber Species - Key Specifications & Tables

Timber Species (Annex B)

  • The code lists 85 timber species with botanical names and abbreviations, e.g.:
    • Teak (Tectona grandis) - TEA
    • Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo) - SIS
    • Gurjan (Dipterocarpus spp.) - GUR
  • Use any timber species if it meets the standard's technical requirements.

Manufacturer's Data (Clause 13)

Manufacturers must provide:

  • Timber species and density (mass/m²)
  • Adhesive and preservative types
  • Loading/deflection tables for shuttering design
  • Bendable radii for architectural concrete

Strength & Performance Tables

PropertyAlong Grain (N/mm²)Across Grain (N/mm²)
Dry Bending Strength (MOR)50 (avg), 45 (min)30 (avg), 27 (min)
Dry Modulus of Elasticity (MOE)7500 (avg), 6700 (min)4000 (avg), 3600 (min)
PropertyAlong Grain (N/mm²)Across Grain (N/mm²)
Wet Bending Strength (MOR)25 (avg), 22 (min)15 (avg), 13 (min)
Wet Modulus of Elasticity (MOE)3750 (avg), 3400 (min)2000 (avg), 1800 (min)

Wood Failure & Load Requirements (Structural Plywood)

Wood Failure %Dry Load (N)Wet Load (N)Micro-organisms Load (N)
No requirement≥1350≥1000≥1000
≥60%1250-1349900-999900-999
≥80%1100-1249800-899800-899
Fail<1100<800<800

Summary

  • Timber species are diverse; select based on manufacturer data.
  • Verify MOE
6Manufacture and Workmanship

IS 4990: Manufacture and Workmanship Key Points

1. Tolerances on Finished Boards (Clause 7.4, Table 7.4)

DimensionTolerance
Length-0 mm, +6 mm
Width+3 mm, -0 mm
Thickness<6 mm: ±10%
≥6 mm: ±5%
Edge Straightness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
Squareness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
  • Edge straightness and squareness tested as per Annex C.

2. Mechanical Properties and Workmanship (Clause 10.1.3.1.1, Tables 1-3)

Table 1: Minimum Average Failing Load & Wood Failure (%)

Wood Failure %Dry Load (N)Water Resistance (N)Micro-organism Resistance (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250-1349900-999900-999
≥ 801100-1249800-899800-899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800

Table 2: Static Bending Strength (Dry)

Grain DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min (N/mm²)
Along Grain750067005045
Across Grain400036003027

Table 3: Wet Bending Strength

PropertyAlong Grain AvgAlong Grain MinAcross Grain AvgAcross Grain Min
MOE (N/mm²)37503400
7Dimensions and Tolerances

IS 4990: Dimensions and Tolerances for Plywood Boards

Key Tolerances (Clause 7.4)

DimensionTolerance
Length-0 mm / +6 mm
Width+3 mm / -0 mm
Thickness < 6 mm±10%
Thickness ≥ 6 mm±5%
Edge Straightness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
Squareness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
  • Note: Edge straightness and squareness testing as per Annex C.

Dimension Definitions (Clause 7.1.1)

  • Length: Parallel to grain of faces.
  • Width: Perpendicular to length.
  • Thickness: Board thickness.

Minimum Bending Radii (Clause 5.3, Table E-5.3)

Thickness (mm)Across Grain (m)Parallel Grain (m)
60.901.25
91.652.15
122.553.30

Summary Diagram of Dimensions

graph LR
A[Length (parallel to grain)] --> B[Width (perpendicular to length)]
B --> C[Thickness]

This concise guide ensures plywood boards conform to IS 4990 tolerances for quality and fit in construction applications.

8Workmanship and Finish

IS 4990: Workmanship and Finish - Key Specifications & Tolerances


1. Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 7.4, Table 7.4)

DimensionTolerance
Length-0 mm / +6 mm
Width+3 mm / -0 mm
Thickness< 6 mm: ±10%
≥ 6 mm: ±5%
Edge Straightness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
Squareness2 mm per 1000 mm (0.2%)
  • Edge straightness and squareness tested as per Annex C.

2. Workmanship and Finish (Clause 8.3)

  • Faces of plywood for concrete shuttering with plastic coating or overlay must be:
    • Dense and smooth
    • Free from blisters and patch marks
    • Uniform color
  • Sampling & conformity as per IS 7638.

3. Mechanical Properties

a) Wet Bending Strength (Clause 10.1.3.1.1, Table 1)

Wood Failure (%)Dry Load (N)Water Resistance (N)Micro-organisms (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250-1349900-999900-999
≥ 801100-1249800-899800-899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800

b) Static Bending Strength (Table 2)

DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min (N/mm²)
Along grain750067005045
Across grain400036003027
9Sampling

IS 4990 Sampling - Key Specifications & Tables

The code does not explicitly detail sampling procedures but emphasizes test result rounding per IS 2:1960.

Key Tables for Structural Plywood Testing:

1. Failing Load & Wood Failure % (Table 10.1.8)

Wood Failure %Dry State (N)Water Resistance (N)Micro-organism Resistance (N)Status
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000Pass
≥ 601250-1349900-999900-999Pass
≥ 801100-1249800-899800-899Pass
-< 1100< 800< 800Fail

2. Static Bending Strength (MOE & MOR) (Table 2)

Grain DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min Indiv (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min Indiv (N/mm²)
Along Grain750067005045
Across Grain400036003027

3. Wet Bending Strength (Table 3)

PropertyAlong Face GrainAcross Face Grain
MOE Avg (N/mm²)37502000
MOE Min Indiv34001800
MOR Avg (N/mm²)2515
MOR Min Indiv2213

Rounding Off Test Results:

  • Follow IS 2:1960 rounding rules.
  • Retain same significant figures as specified values.

Summary

  • Sampling results are evaluated against above tables for compliance.
  • Wood failure % and failing load thresholds define pass/f
10Tests and Test Methods

IS 4990: Tests and Test Methods - Key Formulas & Tables


1. Wet Bending Strength Requirements (Clause 10.1.3.1.1, Table 1)

Wood Failure %Dry State Load (N)Water Resistance Load (N)Micro-organisms Resistance Load (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 601250 - 1349900 - 999900 - 999
≥ 801100 - 1249800 - 899800 - 899
Fail< 1100< 800< 800

2. Static Bending Strength (Clause 10.1.7, Table 2)

Grain DirectionMOE Avg (N/mm²)MOE Min Individual (N/mm²)MOR Avg (N/mm²)MOR Min Individual (N/mm²)
Along grain7,5006,7005045
Across grain4,0003,6003027

3. Wet Bending Strength (Table 3)

PropertyAlong Face Grain (N/mm²)Across Face Grain (N/mm²)
MOE Average3,7502,000
MOE Minimum Individual3,4001,800
MOR Average2515
MOR Minimum Individual2213

4. Additional Notes

  • Tests conducted at 27 ± 2°C (room temperature).
  • Final test values must be rounded off as per IS 2:1960.
  • Wet bending strength test method is newly specified.

flowchart TD
    A[Sample Preparation] --> B[Conditioning at 
11Additional Requirements for ECO-Mark

IS 4990 - Additional Requirements for ECO-Mark (Clause 11)

  • ECO-Mark Purpose:
    Label for environment-friendly plywood under Ministry of Environment and Forests (MEF), administered by BIS.

  • Certification:
    Manufacturer must provide documentary evidence (certificate/declaration) to BIS for ECO-Mark application.

  • Compliance:
    Plywood must meet all relevant ECO-specific clauses within IS 4990, plus general quality tests (Clauses 10.1.1 to 10.1.9).

  • Testing Procedure:

    • If initial sample fails, two additional samples from the same batch are tested.
    • All tests must pass; otherwise, batch is rejected (Clause 10.1.1).
  • Marking:
    ECO-Mark is combined with ISI Mark as a single BIS Standard Mark for eco-friendliness.
    Use of ECO-Mark is optional; manufacturers may choose ISI Mark alone.


Summary Table: ECO-Mark Requirements

AspectRequirement
Governing AuthorityBIS under Ministry of Environment & Forests
DocumentationCertificate/declaration to BIS
TestingPass all relevant IS 4990 tests (10.1.1 - 10.1.9)
Retesting on FailureTwo additional samples tested
MarkingCombined ISI + ECO logo
Optional UseECO-Mark use is voluntary

flowchart TD
    A[Manufacture Plywood Batch] --> B[Test Initial Sample]
    B -- Pass --> C[Apply for ECO-Mark with Documentation]
    B -- Fail --> D[Select 2 Additional Samples]
    D --> E[Test Additional Samples]
    E -- All Pass --> C
    E -- Any Fail --> F[Reject Batch]

This ensures only environmentally compliant plywood is ECO-Mark certified as per IS 4990.

12Marking and Certification

IS 4990: Marking and Certification for Plywood

Key Specifications (Clauses 12.1 & 12.2)

Each plywood panel must be legibly and indelibly marked with:

  • Manufacturer's identification mark
  • Year of manufacture
  • Type of plywood (see Clause 4)
  • ECO-Mark labelling criteria (if applicable)
  • BIS Standard Mark (optional, per Clause 12.2)

Certification Marking (Clause 12.2.1)

  • Use of BIS Standard Mark is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 1986.
  • Licence conditions for use of the Standard Mark must be obtained from BIS.

Manufacturer's Information to Supply (Clause 13)

  • Adhesive type
  • Preservative type
  • Recommended bending radii for architectural concrete work
  • Loading and deflection tables for support design
  • Density or mass per square meter
  • Timber species used (see Annex B for species list)

Important Tables and References

Annex B: Timber Species ExamplesBotanical NameAbbreviation
TeakTectona grandisTEA
SissooDalbergia sissooSIS
GurjanDipterocarpus spp.GUR
AiniArtocarpus hirsutusAIN

Testing & Batch Acceptance (Clause 10.1.1)

  • If initial samples fail, two more batches tested.
  • Batch rejected if further samples fail.

Summary Diagram: Marking & Certification Flow

flowchart TD
    A[Plywood Panel] --> B[Mark with Manufacturer ID]
    B --> C[Mark Year of Manufacture]
    C --> D[Mark Type of Plywood]
    D --> E[Mark ECO-Mark Criteria (if any)]
    E --> F[Apply BIS Standard Mark (optional)]
    F --> G[Supply Technical Data on Demand]

This ensures traceability, quality assurance, and compliance with IS 4990 for plywood products.

13Information to be Supplied by the Manufacturer

IS 4990: Information to be Supplied by Manufacturer

Key Specifications & Requirements:

  • Glue Shear Strength (Clause 10.1.3.1.1 & 10.1.5.1):

    • Test method: IS 1734 (Part 4)
    • The average failing load must meet or exceed values in Table 1 (values depend on plywood type/thickness).
  • Rounding Off Values (General Clause):

    • Follow IS 2:1960 for rounding numerical results.
    • Maintain the same number of significant digits as specified in the standard.
  • Curved Surface Design Data (Clause E-6.8):

    • Use data from Clause E-5.3 for architectural concrete and curved form design.

Typical Table 1 (Glue Shear Strength) Example:

Plywood Thickness (mm)Minimum Average Failing Load (N)
41000
61500
123000

(Note: Refer to IS 4990 Table 1 for exact values)


Summary for Manufacturer:

  • Provide glue shear strength test results per IS 1734 (Part 4).
  • Specify plywood thickness and type.
  • Confirm curved form design data compliance if used for architectural concrete.
  • Round off test values per IS 2:1960 rules.
flowchart TD
    A[Manufacturer] --> B[Provide Glue Shear Strength Data]
    B --> C[Test per IS 1734 (Part 4)]
    C --> D[Compare with Table 1 Values]
    A --> E[Provide Curved Form Design Data]
    E --> F[Use Data from Clause E-5.3]
    A --> G[Round off Values]
    G --> H[Follow IS 2:1960]
Annex AList of Referenced Indian Standards

IS 4990: List of Referenced Indian Standards & Timber Species

Key Referenced IS Standards (Annex A)

IS No.Title
IS 707:1974Glossary of terms applicable to timber technology and utilization
IS 1734 (Parts 1,4,5,7):1983Methods of test for plywood (density, glue shear strength, adhesion, mycological test)
IS 2753 (Part 1):1991Estimation of preservatives in treated timber
IS 5539:1969Specification for preservative treated plywood
IS 7638:1999Sampling methods for wood/lignocellulosic panel products

Timber Species (Annex B)

  • Common species with botanical names and abbreviations:
Trade NameBotanical NameAbbreviation
TeakTectona grandisTEA
SissooDalbergia sissooSIS
MangoMangifera indicaMAN
SalaiBoswellia serrataSAA
GurjanDipterocarpus spp.GUR
Indian OakQuercus spp.IOA

Full list includes 80+ species with trade and botanical names.


Important Notes for Manufacturers (Clause 13)

  • Must supply technical data on adhesives, preservatives, bending radii, loading/deflection tables, density, and timber species.

Certification Marking (Clause 12.2.1)

  • Use of BIS Standard Mark governed by BIS Act 1986 and related rules.

flowchart TD
    A[IS 4990 Standard] --> B[Annex A: Referenced IS]
    A --> C[Annex B: Timber Species]
    B --> D[IS 707 - Glossary]
    B --> E[IS 1734 - Plywood Tests]
    B --> F[IS 5539 - Preservative Plywood]
    C --> G[Teak (TEA)]
    C --> H[Sissoo (SIS)]
    C --> I[Mango (MAN)]

This summary aids quick cross-reference of standards and timber species critical for plywood and timber product compliance under IS 4990.

Annex BTimber Species for Plywood

IS 4990: Timber Species for Plywood - Key Points

Timber Species (Clause 5.1 & Annex B)

  • Any timber species can be used for plywood for concrete shuttering.
  • Annex B lists 86 species with trade and botanical names for selection.
  • For ECO-Mark plywood, only plantation or non-natural forest species (e.g., rubber, coconut, cashew) are allowed.
Example SpeciesBotanical NameAbbreviation
AiniArtocarpus hirsutusAIN
GamariGmelina arboreaGAM
TeakTectona grandisTEA
SissooDalbergia sissooSIS
PoplarPopulus deltoidesPOP

(Full list in Annex B of IS 4990)


Mechanical Properties (Clause 10.1.3.1.1 & Tables)

PropertyAlong Grain (Face Veneer)Across Grain (Face Veneer)
Dry State MOE (Avg.)7,500 N/mm²4,000 N/mm²
Dry State MOR (Avg.)50 N/mm²30 N/mm²
Wet State MOE (Avg.)3,750 N/mm²2,000 N/mm²
Wet State MOR (Avg.)25 N/mm²15 N/mm²

Adhesion & Strength Requirements (Table 1)

Wood Failure %Failing Load (N) DryResistance to Water (N)Resistance to Micro-organisms (N)
No requirement≥ 1350≥ 1000≥ 1000
≥ 60%1250 - 1349900 - 999900 - 999
≥ 80%1100 - 1249800 - 899800 - 899
Fail< 1100

Popular Questions About IS 4990

?What are the required mechanical properties for plywood used in concrete shuttering according to IS 4990?

According to IS 4990 (2011) for plywood used in concrete shuttering:

  • Grade: BWP (Boiling Water Proof) grade plywood, preservative treated.
  • Durability: Must withstand alternate wetting and drying without deterioration.
  • Surface: Hard, resistant to softening, checking, cracking after 72 hours of boiling (Clause 10.1.4).
  • Strength: Adequate to resist:
    • Load of fresh concrete.
    • Forces from pouring and vibration.
  • Reusability: Should sustain repeated use if handled properly.
  • Manufacturer's Data: Strength and density vary by timber species; follow manufacturer instructions for specifics.

Key Mechanical Properties Summary:

PropertyRequirement
Water ResistanceNo surface deterioration after 72h boiling
StrengthSufficient to withstand concrete pressure
Surface HardnessHard and durable under wet-dry cycles
DurabilityPreservative treated for longer life

This ensures plywood maintains integrity during formwork and repeated cycles of use.

?Which timber species are recommended for manufacturing plywood for concrete shuttering?

Recommended Timber Species for Plywood in Concrete Shuttering (IS 4990)

  • IS 4990 Clause 5.1 states any timber species can be used, but Annex B lists preferred species for selection.
  • For ECO-Mark plywood, timber must come from plantations or non-natural forests (e.g., rubber, coconut, cashew, industrial/social forestry, shade trees from tea/coffee estates).
  • The plywood must be BWP grade (Boiling Water Proof), preservative treated, and durable under wet/dry cycles.
  • It should have a hard surface and adequate strength to withstand concrete loads and vibrations.
  • Manufacturers may vary species; always refer to their specific data for density and strength.

Summary Table (Typical Timber Sources for Shuttering Plywood)

Timber SourceNotes
RubberwoodPlantation timber, eco-friendly
Coconut woodPlantation timber
Cashew woodPlantation timber
Industrial forestry woodSustainable source
Shade trees (tea/coffee)Plantation shade trees

This ensures durability, reusability, and environmental compliance for concrete shuttering plywood.

?What tests are specified to ensure water resistance and durability of shuttering plywood?

IS 4990 Tests for Water Resistance and Durability of Shuttering Plywood

  1. 72-hour Boiling Test (Clause 10.1.4 & 10.1.3.1):

    • Test pieces (250 mm × 100 mm) are boiled continuously or intermittently for 72 hours.
    • After boiling and cooling, plywood must show no softening, checking, cracking, or surface deterioration.
  2. Wet Bending Strength Test (Clause 10.1.8):

    • Specimens undergo 3 cycles of 4 hours boiling + 16 hours drying at 65 ± 2°C or continuous 72-hour boiling.
    • Then, kept in water at 27 ± 2°C for 1 hour and tested per IS 1734 (Part 11).
    • Minimum Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and Modulus of Rupture (MOR) values must be met (see Table below).
  3. Minimum Mechanical Properties after Water Resistance Tests:

PropertyAlong Grain (N/mm²)Across Grain (N/mm²)
MOE Average3,7502,000
MOE Minimum Individual3,4001,800
MOR Average2515
MOR Minimum Individual2213
  1. Wood Failure & Load Requirements (Clause 10.1.3.1.1):
    • Average wood failure ≥ 60%
    • Minimum failing load for water resistance ≥ 900 N

These tests ensure plywood maintains structural integrity and durability under wet conditions typical in shuttering applications.

?How should plywood panels be handled and maintained to maximize their service life in formwork?

To maximize plywood panel service life in formwork per IS 4990:

  • Handling:

    • Do not drag panels over each other to avoid surface scratches, especially coated or plastic-overlay types.
    • Lift and carry panels carefully; avoid damaging corners and edges.
    • Use waterproof paper or polythene sheets between panels during transport to prevent scratches.
  • Storage:

    • Store on a flat, level, raised surface in a clean, dry, covered place with free air circulation.
    • Protect stacks from rain and dampness.
    • Keep edges vertically aligned; cover top with a board weighted down.
  • Maintenance:

    • Apply mould oil (heavy mineral oil with viscosity 70-80 cP, light grey, particle-free) before use and reapply after 3-4 uses or long storage.
    • Seal cut edges with chlorinated rubber paint or similar sealants.
    • Dry panels by stacking with spacers for air circulation if stored long-term.
    • Clean surfaces regularly and fix nails/screws carefully to avoid damage.

This care preserves surface quality and extends plywood life in concrete shuttering.

?What are the dimensional tolerances and thickness requirements for plywood under this standard?

IS 4990: Dimensional Tolerances and Thickness Requirements for Plywood

  • Thickness per Number of Plies (Clause 7.3):
Number of PliesThickness (mm)
3-ply4, 5, 6
5-ply6, 8, 9
7-ply12, 16
9-ply16, 19
>9-ply22, 25, 30, 35, 40
  • Dimensional Tolerances:

    • The standard does not specify exact dimensional tolerances.
    • Note: Length, width, and thickness can be agreed upon between manufacturer and purchaser.
  • Quality & Performance (Clause 11.1.1):

    • Plywood must meet quality and performance criteria as per IS 4990.
  • Application:

    • Plywood is intended for concrete shuttering/formwork.

Summary: Use thickness values from the table above for respective plies. Tolerances for dimensions are flexible and mutually agreed. Thickness uniformity and quality must conform to IS 4990 requirements.

Loading diagram...

This ensures plywood thickness suits formwork needs with agreed dimensional control.

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