The shotcrete method is booming in the construction industry due to the tremendous benefits it provides. The method was developed more than 100 years ago, but it gained more popularity over the past few decades. As the demand for more construction-related projects with better strength rose, it also needed a better concrete application method. The Shotcrete method uses a shotcrete gun, air compressor, concrete pump, and skilled nozzleman to place concrete mixtures in even hard-to-reach places.
Even though this method was introduced for several repair works, it is now widely used in different construction projects. It is being used to construct tunnels, domes, basements, lining works, swimming pools, and more.
However, quality assurance is important to ensure that the process is up to the standards. Establishing strong quality control/assurance (QC/QA) principles is necessary to ensure the final product is designed with full safety.
So, how do you maintain the quality of a shotcrete process or determine that the shotcrete company you hired is following the rules? This blog post guides you about that and mentions some common ways to assure the quality of a shotcrete process.
When Is Testing Required For Shotcrete?
Shotcrete testing is required during these three stages of the process.
- Preconstruction
- During the process
- Post-construction (Done either immediately after the work or after a few days)
Material Testing For Shotcrete
Material testing is one of the most important quality assurance tests in the shotcrete method. The cement, water, stones, and admixture should be up to certain standards. Any material having sand pockets, void spaces, or other problems should be immediately eliminated from the process. This is because coarse or fine aggregate material may be of poor quality and not withstand the test of time.
Therefore, you must assure the material quality and check the capability of it withstanding harsh conditions. Check the particle size distribution before the selection of the material. Moreover, carefully consider the material’s proportioning requirements to create the perfect mixture for application.
Check The Machinery
Another common thing to check on when ensuring quality assurance of your shotcrete process is to check the machinery. Make sure the machinery is suitable for this purpose. Check the capacity, reliability, performance, and timely maintenance record of the machine.
In such cases, hiring a reliable and professional shotcrete company is a wise decision. They have the necessary machines suitable for the shotcrete process. Also, blockages might occur in the shotcrete machine. Therefore, have repair kits ready for this purpose so that a machine can be repaired on time.
Check Placing Temperature
Mixing and environmental temperature have a lot to do with the shotcrete application and its quality. 40 °F – 90 ° F is the preferred temperature range for the mixture. You can test the temperature of the mixture using a needle thermometer.
Maintaining an ideal mixture temperature level is necessary to create a solid construction output. Professionals take time to analyze the material temperature and apply it to the necessary areas.
Other Types Of Tests
Some other types of tests that might be involved in checking your shotcrete include:
- Test Panels
- Slump Test
- Air Content And Density
- Bleeding
Conclusion
The shotcrete method is a much safer and efficient way of placing concrete material in construction projects. However, it doesn’t mean that it is void of any testing. The scope and details of the work are required to properly determine the amount and type of material required.
Furthermore, defining the clear goals of the project will help in conducting the required pre-construction testing. It is best that you hire reliable shotcrete services, experienced with the quality assurance of the work.
About SprayForce Concrete
Shotcrete is an efficient way of completing several phases of your construction project. It is the most versatile concrete application method in the construction industry today. It can be used for soil retention (shoring), structural shotcrete, decorative rockwork, and infrastructure repairs.
SprayForce Concrete is a reliable shotcrete contractor that not only offers its services in Calgary but also in other surrounding areas such as Airdrie, Banff, Canmore, Chestermere, Cochrane, and the surrounding area, as well as Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Saskatoon. We are COR certified and a BBB – A+ accredited business. Our ACI – certified nozzleman have over ten years of experience providing complete shotcrete services. Learn more about our services here or call us today.