Concrete forming can be tricky, however, not when you’re prepared and knowledgeable on the subject. There are many factors that can influence the success of your concrete forming project, but the likely most important factor is the pour rate of concrete. Pour rates refer to the speed at which you can safely pour concrete into your forms. The faster concrete is poured the more pressure is exerted on the bottom of the forms as Hydrostatic pressure builds.  Much like if you were to dive into a swimming pool, the deeper you dive into the water the more pressure you experience.  This is the reason why most forms blow out at the bottom of the form rather than the center. A blowout is the failure of either the form or the tie bursting. Blowouts are caused by 2 things: ​

• Faulty product (ties or forms)​
• Too much hydrostatic pressure from fast pour rates. ​

Most failures are due to concrete being poured too quickly in a short period of time. Temperature greatly affects the set time of concrete. Most blowouts occur in the spring and fall months when morning temperatures are cooler. Pour rate in these months needs to be adjusted accordingly. Most people will blame faulty product for a blowout result from pouring too fast. As blowouts result in a loss of concrete, man hours, and can even result in injury, the following data must be collected as soon as possible when you’ve been informed of a blowout.

• Time and Date of pour​
• Weather report from that date and time ​
• Concrete Ready Mix pour schedule and log​
• Batch code from Ties being used on project (Advance batch codes can be found stamped on the top of the box. Should be an 8-digit number)​
• Samples of ties from the site​
• Pictures and comments are appreciated too

As avoiding blowouts are clearly important, concrete pour rates are of significant importance. A poor/nonexistent final product plus major losses in time and money are the last things you want with your concrete project. Being aware and proactive regarding what was discussed above is crucial to the success of your concrete jobs. Form & Build has been the spot for your local concrete forming professionals for just about 50 years now, meaning we have any and all concrete forming related products you need for any job. You can click here and see for yourself online or give any of our 6 branches a call to speak with any of our representatives.