How often should strength tests of shotcrete be conducted based on the distance of application?

Strength tests of shotcrete should be conducted every 50 yards based on the distance of application. This standard is established to ensure that the quality and strength of the shotcrete being applied remain consistent throughout the project. By testing at this interval, contractors can monitor the performance of the shotcrete in more manageable segments, making it easier to identify any potential issues that could arise during application. This practice helps safeguard the structural integrity of the construction by ensuring that material requirements are met and that any deviations from expected strength can be addressed promptly.

Conducting tests at shorter intervals such as every 25 yards may lead to unnecessary testing and increased costs, while longer intervals like every 75 or 100 yards could increase the risk of latent issues, making remediation more complex and costly if problems are identified later on. Therefore, the choice of every 50 yards strikes a balance between thoroughness and efficiency, making it the optimal testing frequency for verifying shotcrete application quality.