What is a shotcrete machine?

A shotcrete machine is a specialized device that sprays concrete at high pressure onto various surfaces.

The most critical components of a shotcrete machine include:

✔ Air compressor – Determines the pressure at which the concrete is sprayed.
✔ Hopper – Holds the mix before it is projected.
✔ Hoses – Available in different sizes depending on the maximum aggregate size in the concrete mix.

The hopper’s capacity determines the amount of material the machine can hold, although more product can be continuously added during operation.

How does a concrete spraying machine work?

The shotcrete process is relatively simple. Cement and aggregates are mixed to the desired consistency. All concrete components—except water—are placed into the hopper. This mix is then fed into the machine, which propels it through the hose using high-pressure air.

At this stage, the mechanism is the same for all shotcrete methods. The key difference lies in when the water is introduced:

. If the water is added at the nozzle, it is called the dry-mix process.
. If the water is added 5 to 6 meters before the nozzle, it is known as the semi-wet process.
. If all components (aggregates, water, and additives) are pre-mixed before entering the hose, it is the wet-mix process.