Revolutionizing Underground Support and Surface Structures

At Altecrete, we specialize in high-performance shotcrete applications for both mining operations and general construction projects. This comprehensive guide explains how our sprayed concrete technology delivers superior strength, safety, and efficiency compared to traditional pouring methods.

Shotcrete in Mining: Critical Ground Support

Why Mines Choose Shotcrete

✔ Immediate stabilization of excavation walls
✔ Seamless coverage of irregular surfaces
✔ Corrosion-resistant formulations for wet environments
✔ Faster installation than conventional methods
✔ Reduced labor costs versus form-and-pour techniques

Mining-Specific Applications

• Tunnel linings - Uniform structural support

• Shaft walls - 360° stabilization

• Ore pass protection - Abrasion-resistant mixes

• Slope stabilization - Prevents rock falls

• Refuge bays - Fire-resistant construction

Our mining shotcrete solutions feature:

• Robot-assisted application for consistency

• Fiber-reinforced mixes (steel/polypropylene)

• Accelerated set times (as fast as 1-hour initial set)

• Low-rebound formulations (<10% waste)

Shotcrete Concrete for Construction

Advantages Over Poured Concrete

Construction Applications

• Swimming pools - Watertight shells

• Retaining walls - Curved or angled designs

• Architectural features - Complex geometries

• Bridge repairs - Minimal traffic disruption

• Industrial flooring - Rapid return to service

Explore our general shotcrete services for commercial and civil projects.

Altecrete's Shotcrete Systems

Wet-Mix Process

• Pre-mixed concrete pumped to nozzle

• Smoother finish quality

• Ideal for architectural applications

• Better for robotic application

Dry-Mix Process

• Water added at nozzle

• Preferred for remote sites

• Faster setup time

• Easier equipment transport

Specialty Mix Designs

• Early-strength - 10MPa in 4 hours

• Fiber-reinforced - Crack resistance

• Low-permeability - Watertight structures

• Abrasion-resistant - High-traffic areas

Quality Assurance Process

1. Pre-application

   • Surface preparation (scaling, cleaning)

   • Reinforcement placement (if required)

   • Test panels for mix validation

2. Application

   • Robotic arm or manual spraying

   • Continuous thickness monitoring

   • Ambient condition controls

3. Post-application

   • Curing compound application

   • Core sampling for strength testing

   • Final inspection and certification

Industry Compliance

All shotcrete work meets:
✔ SANS 586 (South African shotcrete standards)
✔ ASTM C1604 (International testing standards)
✔ Mine Health & Safety Act requirements
✔ Project-specific engineering specifications

Why Choose Altecrete?

1. 30+ Years Expertise - Since 1992

2. Mining Focus - Understanding underground challenges

3. Advanced Equipment - Robotic sprayers, GPS mapping

4. Quality Materials - Premium cement and additives

5. Nationwide Service - Projects across Southern Africa

Project Gallery

Mining Case Study:
Installed 1,200m² of fiber-reinforced shotcrete in platinum mine tunnel in 72 hours, allowing production to resume 5 days ahead of schedule.

Construction Example:
Completed 25 swimming pools in luxury estate using architectural-grade shotcrete with custom pigmentation.

Getting Started

1. Consultation - Site evaluation and needs assessment

2. Engineering - Custom mix design and application plan

3. Execution - Certified crew deployment

4. Handover - Documentation and maintenance guidance