EN
Entering precast concrete production is associated with high investment costs, long lead times and structural challenges for many construction companies. Especially in cases of fluctuating demand or when a rapid start-up for a new project is required, the question often arises as to a flexible and economically viable solution. A modular casting table can provide a pragmatic alternative, enabling companies to quickly produce precast elements directly on or in close proximity to the construction site.
Flexible system for on-site use
Ratec has developed a modular casting table primarily for the requirements of Asian markets, specifically designed for the production of precast concrete elements on construction sites. The system is based on standardized table segments measuring 1,990 Ă— 3,980 mm, which can be combined as required to achieve the desired casting area. Thanks to pre-drilled holes on all sides, the segments can be bolted together in both longitudinal and transverse directions and expanded as needed. This allows the casting surface to be precisely adapted to the geometry and dimensions of the precast elements being produced. Compared to conventional methods, where segments are welded together, and the surface subsequently ground, bolting the segments offers a significantly simpler approach.
The table surface consists of an 8 mm thick steel plate. The working height is configured on a project-specific basis and, in previous applications, has typically ranged between 50 and 60 cm. Feet and supports for height adjustment are available as additional components.
Technical features and variants
The modular table is suitable for the production of concrete elements with wall thicknesses of up to 450 mm. In addition to the standard version, a light version is available for elements up to 250 mm in height. Both variants are characterized by their robust design, ease of assembly and excellent transportability.
A key advantage lies in compact design: the modular structure allows the modular table to be easily transported from one project to the next and saves storage space during idle periods. The individual segments can be transported on standardized carriers and are suitable for both truck and container transport. For handling on site, each table is equipped with four lifting points, which are connected via shackles to detachable end ribs.
If required, the equipment can also be permanently installed in a precast plant at a later stage.
Easy alignment and installation
For precise alignment of the table segments, levelling plates with thicknesses of 0.5 mm, 1 mm and 2 mm are used. These serve as a basis for fine adjustment. In addition, the table legs are equipped with adjustment screws that allow height differences in the subsoil to be compensated. Larger uneven areas or depressions in the ground must be levelled in advance using suitable filling material to ensure a flat and stable installation surface.
Practical examples from the Philippines
Ratec has been active as a supplier to precast concrete manufacturers in the Philippines for more than 15 years. Its customers include several of the country’s largest construction companies. Interest in precast concrete construction continues to grow in this Southeast Asian market, but is often constrained by infrastructural conditions, limited precast design experience and the high investment costs required to establish precast concrete plants.
To bridge this gap with a practical solution, Ratec developed its first modular table in 2019 for a customer in the Philippines—an established construction company that had not previously produced its own precast concrete elements. The objective was to reduce dependency on external suppliers while gaining the ability to manufacture precast elements directly on the project site.
Producing precast elements directly on or adjacent to the construction site proved to be a significant advantage over supply from remote precast plants, both in terms of time savings and economic efficiency.
Current projects
The solution continues to be successfully deployed in the Philippines. In 2025, a modular table with a total casting area of 8 Ă— 4 m was realized, consisting of four table segments. The installation is designed for concrete elements with wall thicknesses of up to 450 mm and includes supports to achieve a working height of 600 mm.
Another project is currently in the final stages of preparation. This modular table with dimensions of 11.94 Ă— 5.97 m, consisting of a total of nine segments, is scheduled for installation in the next weeks. This system is also designed for concrete elements with wall thicknesses of up to 450 mm.
Combination with magnetic formwork systems
The casting surface is optimized for the use of magnetic formwork systems. In this context, the Easy Form system from Ratec is particularly well suited, as it can be flexibly adapted to different geometries, is easy to handle manually or by crane, and offers advantages when working with protruding reinforcement. In combination with the modular table, this results in a versatile solution for changing components and projects.
Conclusion
The modular table offers a mobile, expandable and economically attractive way to enter precast concrete production, or to complement existing production with a mobile, site-based manufacturing unit. Short lead times, high flexibility and the option of on-site production help reduce investment risks while enabling companies to gain initial experience in precast construction. At the same time, the system can later be integrated into a stationary precast plant—an approach that has generated considerable interest, particularly in growth markets such as the Philippines.