Final answer:
A reusable forms comprising a system of panels, hardware, and ties refers to a formwork system in construction. This system is essential for shaping and supporting concrete during the curing process, and its reusability makes it an efficient and eco-friendly option in the construction industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term you're referring to is known as a formwork system, which is used in construction. A formwork system consists of reusable panels, assorted pieces of hardware, and ties that are designed to hold concrete in place as it hardens. This system enables the creation of structures of various sizes and shapes, catering to the specific requirements of a building or a civil engineering project. These systems are crucial in ensuring that the concrete is molded into the desired form with the necessary support until it cures and can support itself.
Formwork systems are an example of a rigid structure, where slender pieces are connected to form a substantial framework that can be used in a wide range of applications such as supports in buildings, engineering works, machinery, and more. The concept of reusability in these systems makes them cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as they can be dismantled and used multiple times across different projects.