In the case of installing a lining inside of an existing pipe, there are robotic methods available, such as spin lining, where the cementitious material is cast from a rotating head as the carrier is moved along the pipe. For pipe smaller than 42 in. (1067 mm) diameter, the spin lining is likely the best method.
For pipe larger than 42 in. (1067 mm) and up to 6 or 8 ft (1.8 or 2.4 m) diameter, either hand shotcrete nozzling or spin lining are applicable. For pipes much larger than 6 to 8 ft (1.8 to 2.4 m), hand nozzling is likely the best solution.
In the case of clearance between a wall to be shotcreted and an obstruction, 3 ft (1 m) is a good rule of thumb, but a qualified and experienced shotcrete contractor can use modified equipment to place quality shotcrete in tighter spaces. A recent article on shotcreting in confined spaces can be found here.
I am interested in any information or suggestions you may have regarding practical working space requirements for shotcrete applications. Shotcrete is a common approach for sewer pipeline and storm-water culvert rehabilitation projects. My concern relates to the space requirements necessary to best ensure a quality installation—for pipelines, this boils down to the question: What is the smallest diameter pipe that can be used for this method? Technical specifications that I have come across call for a minimum of 3 ft (1 m) between the surface being covered and the application nozzle. To me, this means that pipes that are much smaller than 6 ft (1.8 m) would create some difficulty. Similarly, for applications between vertical walls, how much room does a nozzleman need between the wall receiving the shotcrete and the wall at his/her back? Are there robotic means or other methods in use that would allow shotcrete applications without a hands-on nozzleman? Are there any other workspace limitations or controls that should be considered when determining feasibility of shotcrete application methods?
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