Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206

Paraslim Parapet Formwork

1.0 Introductio n
Paraslim is a modular formwork system for use
in the construction of bridge deck cantilevers.
The system allows formwork to be erected and
dismantled quickly either piecemeal or in
modular panels.
This document is not to be used as a working
method statement. It is the customer’s
responsibility to assimilate this information into a
document specific to the site conditions.
This guidance note shall be read in conjunction
with the RMD Kwikform (RMDK) drawings.
It is assumed that work with RMDK equipment is
undertaken or supervised by personnel familiar
with the products. Where necessary product
familiarisation can be provided by RMDK.

2.0 References
Please refer to RMDK Paraslim brochure,
Paraslim Technical Data Sheets and the
attendant RMDK Risk Assessment. Reference
should also be made to the contract method
statement and construction drawings provided
by the contractor for specific details and
sequence.

3.0 Health & Safety

This document is for general guidance only and does not remove the responsibility for safe
erection, use and dismantling from the customer.
We recommend that only trained, competent operatives erect or dismantle Paraslim.
Some components weigh in excess of 25kg. Plan all lifts and execute in accordance with
applicable crane and manual handling regulations.
Provide safe access and a safe working platform at all times. Safe systems of work shall
reflect industry best practice and comply with applicable local legislation.

4.0 Design Pa ramete rs

The Paraslim equipment is designed to support reinforced concrete, other dead loads and
live loads. All design parameters used are clearly shown on the RMDK drawing. If any of
this information is incorrect the relevant RMDK office must be contacted prior to erection.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 1 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

5.0 Support for Parasli m Syste m

Paraslim equipment can be configured in different ways to suit varying bridge beam
profiles. Figure 1 shows a common arrangement with Superslim based frames fitted to
steel bridge girders. The information in this document applies equally to equipment
mounted on pre-cast concrete bridge beams and to other frame arrangements.
Each Paraslim frame is supported via a diagonal tie bearing at its upper end on a support
bracket fixed to the top surface of the bridge beams and connected at its lower end to the
top chord of the Paraslim frame.
A number of options and methods of fixing to the bridge beam are available. The
numbered configuration selected for your project is shown on the RMD Kwikform drawing
in detail. Ensure that RMD Kwikform and any anchor supplier’s instructions are adhered to
during installation.

Figure 1.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 2 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

6.0 Pre- Asse mbly of t he Fra mes

Bolt the Super Slim Soldier sections together in the configuration shown on the drawing.
The orientation of the components is often critical to ensure that the diagonal tie will miss
the soldier stiffeners. In order to minimise joint deflections nuts joining horizontal Soldiers
shall be torqued to 140Nm.
• Assemble the remaining components to make the frames. Ensure equal thread
projections each end of the turnbuckle and adjust to achieve the drawing dimensions.
• Secure and protection required to prevent damage to the bridge beam finishes.

7.0 Erection
• For single use projects attachment of Paraslim frames to bridge beams may be carried
out piecemeal whilst the beams are at ground level. More usually and especially when
multiple use is envisaged, several Paraslim frames are pre-assembled into modular
panels complete with soffit members and ply for erection by crane. The dismantling
operation is nearly always carried out in modular panels by crane.
• Prior to any erection, grease the Paraslim Ties and assemble them with the Stripping
Cones. Insert the lower end of the assembly through the Paraslim Support Brackets
from above.
• Place the greased Paraslim Porthole Bearings in the correct Soldier porthole and pass
the safety chain tee through one of the small web holes to ensure the unit cannot
accidentally become dislodged.

7.1. Piecemeal Erection

7.1.1. Erecting Paraslim Frames

• Lift the Paraslim frame into position and attach the Paraslim Tie to the Paraslim
Porthole Bearing. Ensure the threaded section of the tie passes right through the
captive nut on the bearing. During attachment install the flexihose around the lower
section of the Paraslim Tie. Note the length of the flexihose must be such that it
projects a minimum of 150mm below the plywood soffit.
• Check the top of the soldier for level directly above the Paraslim Porthole Bearing.
Rotate the Paraslim Stripping Cone whilst holding the Paraslim Tie immobile until the
correct level is achieved.
• Check the slope angle of the Superslim top chord and rotate the turnbuckle to carry out
fine adjustment. (Note the angle should have been set approximately correct by the
dimensions given on the RMD Kwikform drawing.) Repeat the erection procedure for
remaining frames. Ensure that the Paraslim Tilt Plates are seated snugly against the
web of the girder.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 3 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

7.1.2. Completing the System

• Add the tube and fitting lacing and bracing members. Ensure the tube is placed so as
to split the run of frames up into modules to allow the dismantling operation to take
place by crane.
• Place the secondaries and clamp to the Superslim Soldiers as shown. Again ensure
joints in secondaries fall above joints in tube and fitting lacing and bracing members to
allow modular dismantling.
• Place the plywood and fix to the secondaries. Ensure the ply layout too permits
modular dismantling. Place the handrail posts and tubes to complete the system.
• Check that all Paraslim Ties in the module are tightened and carrying approximately
equal load by rotation of each in turn
• Inject a small quantity of expanding polyurethane foam into the top of the flexitubes to
ensure grout can not enter. Coat the Paraslim Stripping Cones liberally with RMDK
Anchor Screw Grease to ease removal.
• Cut a section of Plas Tube and place over the section of tie above the stripping cone to
protect the tie threads from grout during concrete placement.
• Add a reinforcement protection cap to the top end of the Paraslim Tie to safeguard
operatives

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 4 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

7.2. Erection in Modules

Erection in modules affords the quickest and safest means of construction for multispan
structures where re-use of modules is to be employed. Successful erection without access
below the soffit and easy subsequent adjustment relies on the fixing of the bridge deck
reinforcement being carried out after Paraslim equipment is in position.

7.2.1. Pre-assembly of Frames into Modules

• If many modules are to be assembled it is advisable to construct them the correct way
up in a tube and fitting jig, otherwise the following procedure may be used.
• Lay the Paraslim frames on their backs on a flat level surface (Superslim Soldier down
most) and space out to the noted dimensions. Ensure the frames are parallel and
square to each other and attach the tube and fitting lacing and bracing members.
• Turn the module skeleton over and add the secondaries and clamp to the soldiers as
noted. Do not fix the backing member that will fall nearest to the bridge at this time.
• Nail the plywood into position leaving it about 150mm short of the ends of the
secondaries. The edge of the ply that will fall nearest to the bridge beam should tie up
with the centreline of the last backing member that has been fixed.
• Attach the guardrail system. Ensure guardrail equipment does not project beyond the
ends of the secondaries to avoid clashes during erection. Repeat assembly for the
remaining modules.
Figure 2.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 5 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

7.2.2. Slinging the Modules

Sling the modules with a set of four legged chains with shortening clutches. Attachment
should be via two legs at the rear of the unit and two legs at the nose of the unit. Adjust
the lengths of the chain legs so that the angle of the plywood approximately matches the
finished soffit profile. Attach tag lines prior to lifting.

7.2.3. Access During Erection

Attachment of the modules may be carried out safely from behind the confines of a
temporary edge handrail fixed to the top of the bridge edge beam.
Levelling and tilt adjustment will require operatives to access the part completed ply deck.
A suitably attached safety harness may be used to enable this operation.

7.2.4. Attaching the Modules

Raise the module up to the outside of the bridge edge beam and guide into position from
behind the edge handrail. Insert the Paraslim Ties via their Flexitube sheathing into the
Paraslim Porthole Bearings and rotate the ties to engage the threads. Ensure that threads
on the ties project through the nuts on the bearings. Once all ties are attached, lower
crane to allow module to sit against bridge edge beam. Detach the two crane chains at
the nose of the module. Leave the other two legs attached.

7.2.5. Levelling and Tilt Adjustment

• Check the soffit level above the Paraslim Porthole Bearings and adjust by rotating the
Paraslim stripping tubes whilst holding the Paraslim Ties immobile (RMDK Ratchet
spanner sets are ideal for this operation). If the module is to be raised, a little
assistance with the crane chains still attached to the rear end may be required to
overcome friction generated between the equipment and the bridge beam. (A lever up
with a scaffold tube may suffice on lighter modules).
• If the module is to be lowered, a little assistance with a scaffold tube lever may be
required to overcome friction generated between the equipment and the bridge beam.
• Once the level is correct the fine adjustment of tilt may be carried out by rotating the
turnbuckle via the missing plywood access strip adjacent to the bridge beam. A tall
operative lying on the ply deck should be able to carry this out. A chain wrench may be
required to grip the turnbuckle.
• Further level adjustments should not be necessary. Check that each of the Paraslim
Ties is carrying roughly equal load by rotating in turn.

• Ensure that all of the Paraslim Tilt Plates are in contact with the girder webs.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 6 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

7.2.6. Finishing Off the System

• Make good any gaps in the edge protection between modules. Place the backing
member closest to the bridge edge beam. Usually this will be a timber notched to
avoid the diagonal ties. Cut plywood to fill the access strip adding mastic or
compressible foam filler to seal against grout loss. Close the ply gaps between the
modules. Remove the temporary guardrail attached to bridge edge beams.
• Inject a small quantity of expanding polyurethane foam into the top of the flexitubes to
ensure grout can not enter. Coat the Paraslim Stripping Cones liberally with
RMDKwikform Anchor Screw Grease to ease removal.
• Cut a section of Plas Tube and place over the section of tie projecting above the
stripping cone to protect the tie threads from grout during concrete placement
• Add a reinforcement protection cap to the top end of the Paraslim Tie.

8.0 Checks
The customer should satisfy himself or herself that the equipment has been correctly
erected prior to any loading of the structure.

9.0 Steel Fixing and Co ncreti ng

Set out the bridge edge line and fix the bridge cantilever
reinforcement and embedments. The arrangement of the edge beam
formwork affects the way that concrete loads are carried by the
equipment, and must be in accordance with the outline details shown.
Consult the drawing for any specific requirements for placement of
concrete and any restrictions to loading. Issue Permit to Load
document to site operatives
Place concrete evenly on a module. Restrict local heaping to 100mm
and ensure that excess concrete is removed prior to filling of the edge
beam forms. Allow curing.
Should the equipment need to be left in-situ for an extended period, crack the bond
between the concrete and the stripping cones by sequential part rotation and re-tightening
once the concrete is self supporting.

10.0 Striki ng and Re moval

Erect the permanent works bridge parapet rail or temporary edge handrail to ensure safe
access once the Paraslim module has departed.
Using the RMDK Multispanner (Ratchet Spanners are not designed for heavy use) loosen
the stripping cones on all of the ties on the module just sufficient to remove the tie load
and leave the tie supporting the self weight of the module. Do not allow the tie to rotate.
See Plate 1.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 7 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

10.1. Slinging During Dismantling

Modules are handled during dismantling using the RMD Kwikform Folding C-Hook
(ASX10067) in tandem with the Chain Assembly (ASX10042).
C-hook and chain assembly components are classified as lifting equipment, carry
individual serial numbers and are supplied with load test certification documents. Once the
equipment is on site it is the customer’s responsibility to arrange for inspection, load
testing and the keeping of records of such at the statutory intervals.

10.2. Using the Folding C-Hook

Lifting Points

Lashing Points

Side Stabilisers

For details of the load rating, assembly and adjustment of the Folding C-Hook refer to
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10606. For the majority of Paraslim modules there should
be no need to extend the two forks. The side stabilisers can be extended to provide
additional width to the C-Hook if required.
In the following sequence, photos referred to show a different version of the C-Hook but
apply equally
• Adjust the length of the legs on the Chain Assembly so that the angle of the C-Hook
forks approximately matches that of the soffit
• Lift the C-Hook into position. Working from a safe access on the deck and using tag
lines, guide the C-Hook forks into the Paraslim module between the secondaries and
the scaffold tube lacers. See Plates 2-7
• Secure the Paraslim module to the C-Hook lashing points using (lashings are not
supplied) See Plate 8.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 8 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

• Lengthen the adjustable chain to move the centre of lift towards the combined centre of
gravity of the C-Hook plus the module. Keep the weight of the C-hook on the crane and
gently lift the Paraslim C-Hook until the forks are tight under the secondaries.
• Use the smaller Ratchet Spanner or the central hole on the Multispanner to undo all of
the ties in the module. When the tie thread is free from each porthole bearing withdraw
the ties upward through the cast deck. The C-hook now supports the module. See
Plates 9-12.
• Lower the C-hook, complete with the module and crane away from the bridge. Some
persuasion may be required if the module is stuck to the soffit. Take care not to allow
the equipment to foul or snag any part of the girders to avoid damage to the paintwork.
See plates 13-18.
• Lower the module to the ground for inspection and maintenance prior to immediate re-
erection with the C-hook, adjustment, storage or dismantling.
• Where Paraslim modules are to be stored before re-erection, attach temporary scaffold
tube legs with right angle couplers to the tube lacer at the end of the frames. Adjust the
length of the legs so that the module can be landed with the soffit slope matching that
used on the bridge to facilitate ready removal of the Paraslim C-Hook.
• Repeat for successive modules adjusting the point of lift to balance the load throughout

11.0 Maki ng Good Holes left by Parasli m T ies.

Once the complete bridge deck is cast the diagonal tie holes must be made good.

11.1. Access
Access below the soffit is required for this brief period where all tie holes can be filled in a
single operation. Access can be provided from scaffolding, cherry picker or scissor lift
working from below, or an underbridge inspection unit working from above.

11.2. Procedure
• Withdraw the projecting Flexihoses by hand from the soffit. Insert RMDK tie stoppers
to seal the hole from below. Pour RMDK Adogrout into the holes from above and
allow curing.
• Remove the tie stoppers from below for re-use and make good from below with RMDK
Adopatch mortar.

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 9 of 11

The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

Plate 1 Plate 2 Plate 3

Plate 4 Plate 5 Plate 6

Plate 7 Plate 8 Plate 9

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 10 of 11
The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions
Equipment Guidance Note UIX10206
Paraslim Parapet Formwork

Plate 10 Plate 11 Plate 12

Plate 13 Plate 14 Plate 15

Plate 16 Plate 17 Plate 18

Issue G Further info: +44 (0) 1922 743743 Sheet 11 of 11
The information contained within these data sheets remain the property of RMD Kwikform and is not to be altered or reproduced without permission.
10/01/09 RMD Kwikform reserves the right to change any specification without giving prior notice
It is the customers responsibility to incorporate this generic information into a document specific to the site conditions