Shotcrete is a specialized type of concrete that is sprayed or applied to a surface through a high pressure hose. Shotcrete is commonly used in the construction industry, especially in tunnelling, underground excavation and mining. There are two different types of shotcrete machines used to apply shotcrete materials: dry and wet shotcrete machines. sinogrout has compiled a list of the differences, advantages and disadvantages of dry and wet shotcrete machines. If you are not sure, please read what is the shotcrete machine?
Dry Shotcrete Machines
Dry shotcrete machines are also known as gunite machines. These machines use a pre-mixed dry mixture of cement and aggregates that are fed into a hopper. The dry mixture is then propelled through a hose by compressed air to a nozzle where water is introduced to wet the mixture before it is sprayed onto the surface.
Dry shotcrete machines are typically used in applications where the thickness of the shotcrete layer is relatively thin and the surface is relatively flat. Dry mixes are ideal for applications requiring high strength, dense shotcrete layers, such as the construction or rehabilitation of retaining walls, ponds and other structures.
Advantages of dry shotcrete machines
High work efficiency
Dry mixes are easier to handle, transport and store. Dry mix is also more resistant to the effects of moisture, which means it can be stored for longer periods of time without losing its strength or consistency.
Less Rebound
Rebound is the amount of shotcrete that bounces off the surface being sprayed and is wasted. Dry shotcrete machines produce less rebound because the dry mix adheres better to the surface being sprayed, reducing the amount of material that bounces off.
Disadvantages of dry shotcrete machines
Requires more labor to operate
Dry shotcrete machines require the operator to mix the dry mix with water and load the mixture into a hopper. This can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially for larger projects.
May be more difficult to control
Because the dry mix is propelled by compressed air, controlling the flow of material and the direction of spraying can be a challenge. This can result in a less uniform application of shotcrete and may require additional time and labor to correct.
Wet Shotcrete Machines
Wet shotcrete machines use a pre-mixed slurry of cement, sand and water, pumped through a hose to a nozzle where compressed air is introduced to spray the mixture onto the surface being shot.
Wet shotcrete machines are typically used in applications where the thickness of the shotcrete layer is relatively thick and the surface being shot is irregular. Wet mixes are well suited for applications that require more flexible shotcrete layers, such as repairing or reinforcing tunnels, bridges and other infrastructure.
Advantages of wet shotcrete machines
Easy to control
Wet mixes can be adjusted to achieve the desired consistency and flow rate, making it easier to apply shotcrete uniformly to the surface being shot.
Can be operated by one person
Wet shotcrete machines do not require an operator to mix the shotcrete material or load it into a hopper, reducing worker labor and labor costs.
Disadvantages of wet shotcrete machines
Limited Spraying Distance
The spraying distance of wet shotcrete machine usually does not exceed 30 meters, so it is not suitable for the construction of large buildings or high-rise buildings. Choose a robotic shotcrete machine for large buildings, the best robotic shotcrete mahcines & shotcrete trucks buying guide.
Limited spraying area
Concrete wet sprayers are usually only suitable for smaller construction areas as they require frequent reloading and adjustment.
The decision of which spraying machine to choose usually depends on our project, if youz are struggling with the choice of concrete spraying machine, you can contact us for free professional help.
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