Putzmeister America Brings Wet Shotcreting Unit for Tunnel Construction to North America May 2001

Large shotcreting applications for tunnel construction can now be handled with Putzmeister America's special self-propelled Tunnel-Kreter SP 40.

"We brought the Tunnel-Kreter to the North American market, as wet shotcreting is becoming more common in tunnel construction," according to Bill Carbeau, special projects manager for Putzmeister America. "Our new, state-of-the-art unit offers speed, efficiency and a semi-automatically controlled continuous output when handling larger shotcreting applications."

The most significant feature of the Tunnel-Kreter SP 40 is the unique kinematics of its spraying arm and its oscillating nozzle, which increases spraying speed. The 10-foot lance can be aligned parallel to the tunnel wall. The lance can be set to travel at variable speeds - automatically back and forth - so the operator can cover a 10-foot section of the tunnel by simply controlling the main boom. Remote controls allow easy handling at a safe distance.

The unit is highly compact, making it ideal for low tunnels and convenient transportation. It is only 10-1/2 feet high, and its fully hydraulic outriggers do not extend over the width of the vehicle. Plus, the unit's telescopic 10-foot lance enables access to small areas while providing a great reach.

The Tunnel-Kreter is self-propelled and easy to maneuver. From its operator's cab, it can be driven to the point of spraying with the arm extended in front and quickly repositioned on site. It can also travel at quick speeds up to 12 mph in and out of the tunnel.

Provides smooth, surge-free spraying The double-piston concrete pump supplies a pressure of 1088-psi (75 bar) and achieves outputs up to 40 cubic yards an hour. Proportional controls and a quick changeover S-valve in the hopper provides smooth, surge-free spraying.

The chemical additive pump works with all appropriate accelerators. It is proportionally controlled and "automatically" adds the chemicals in the same proportions to the mix, regardless of pump volume.

The all-wheel drive unit is equipped standard with its own air compressor, concrete pump, additive pump and spraying boom. It is offered in electric/diesel combinations to accommodate tunnel ventilation systems.