Shotcrete - gunite

Shotcrete is a method of applying concrete or mortar using a high-pressure hose and nozzle. The process involves spraying the concrete or mortar mixture onto a surface, such as a wall or ceiling, using compressed air to force the mixture out of the nozzle at high speed.

The process of shotcrete can be done in two ways: dry-mix shotcrete and wet-mix shotcrete. In dry-mix shotcrete, the dry mixture of cement and aggregates is loaded into a hopper and then fed into a compressed air stream, which then delivers the mixture to the nozzle. Water is then added at the nozzle and mixed with the dry mixture as it is being sprayed onto the surface.

In wet-mix shotcrete, the mixture of cement, aggregates, and water is prepared beforehand and then fed into the compressed air stream at the nozzle. This method is often preferred over dry-mix shotcrete because it results in a more consistent and uniform mixture and allows for better control of the water-to-cement ratio.

Shotcrete can be used for a variety of applications, including building and repairing structures, lining tunnels and mines, creating water features, and stabilizing slopes and embankments. It is often preferred over traditional concrete pouring methods because it can be applied to complex shapes and surfaces, requires minimal formwork, and can be applied quickly and efficiently.

A shotcrete machine is a piece of equipment used in the construction industry to apply sprayed concrete or shotcrete in a rapid and efficient manner. It is also known as a concrete spraying machine, gunite machine, or cement sprayer.

The machine consists of a pump, a spraying nozzle, and a delivery system for the concrete mix. The pump pushes the concrete mix through the delivery hose to the nozzle, which sprays the mix onto the surface that requires covering. The nozzle can be manually or mechanically controlled to direct the concrete flow.

Shotcrete machines are commonly used in construction projects where traditional concrete casting methods are not feasible, such as in underground mining, tunneling, and slope stabilization. The use of shotcrete machines can also reduce labor costs and improve productivity as it requires less time and personnel than conventional methods.