Web Summary
Q1: What is the company name and its industry?
A1: The company name is HC MATCON INC., and it operates in the construction industry, specifically in the field of shotcrete and other geotechnical engineering services.
Q2: What type of concrete is shotcrete?
A2: Shotcrete is a term used to describe concrete that is pneumatically projected at high velocity onto a surface. It can be classified into two categories: wet mix process and dry mix process.
Q3: What are the main differences between the wet mix process and dry mix process in shotcrete?
A3: The wet mix process involves batching, delivering, and pumping concrete to the shotcrete nozzle where compressed air is added just prior to shooting. In contrast, the dry mix process delivers concrete ingredients excluding water to the shotcrete nozzle using compressed air, with water added at the nozzle just prior to shooting.
Q4: What are some common applications of shotcrete?
A4: Shotcrete is commonly used in blind wall applications, structural liners (such as silos, tanks, and tunnels), architectural concrete, restoration or rehabilitation of existing structures, and infrastructure rehabilitation projects.
Q5: What types of finishes can be achieved with shotcrete?
A5: Shotcrete can produce various finishes, including nozzle finish, architectural finish, smooth steel troweled finish, and textured finishes as per request.
Q6: Are there any special design considerations for shotcrete?
A6: While no special design considerations are required, qualified installers, material suppliers, and quality control practices are necessary to ensure the overall quality of the shotcrete. Additionally, shotcrete mix designs can be proportioned to meet specified performance requirements, including chloride, sulphate, and freeze/thaw resistance.
Q7: How does shotcrete compare to conventional formed wall construction with respect to shrinkage cracking?
A7: Shotcrete generally has higher shrinkage characteristics than conventional formed wall mixes due to its lower water to cement ratio, increased cement paste demand, and need for high cohesion. However, proper proportioning, design, placement, and curing can moderate the shrinkage characteristics of shotcrete.
Q8: What is the advantage of shotcrete over conventional formed wall construction?
A8: The main advantage of shotcrete is that the reinforcing steel is visible until it is encapsulated by shotcrete, providing an additional layer of protection against corrosion.