Losses and Productivity Parameters for Cladding Technology with Wet-Process Sprayed Mortar

Abstract

Background and Objective: The wet-process sprayed mortar is a potential solution to minimize the traditional application negative points. However, its use is still incipient and a recent technological innovation in several regions of Brazil. Few available parameters that attest gains to subsidize the budget, design, and execution of cladding are systematized. This paper aims to evaluate the industrialized mortar loss and labor productivity in the execution of internal and external cladding for buildings. Methods: The first step was to define the elements to characterize the constructive cladding technology with mechanical projection of mortar and method for effective data collection. The second step consisted in the accomplishment of the field research, which took into account the case studies in 08 buildings under construction. The third step intended to describe the best practices highlighted in the construction works analyzed and the fourth step described the identification of actions able to succeed in the implementation and operation of the system. Result: The results allowed verifying industrialized mortar loss varying from 6.38% to 150.02%, as well as masons’ productivity from 0.18M’hr/m2 up to 5.91M’hr/m2. The present research also made it possible to identify factors influencing the increase in the loss indicator, such as the fresh mortar consistency, failure in the transport and control of bagged materials, and high thicknesses in the cladding layer. As for the factors that favored productivity, it is important to highlight: the experience of the masons involved, the mortar application to the windows, and good logistics for the transportation of bagged goods. Conclusion: Identification of the best practices, opportunities to improve production management, and obtainment of quantitative references comprise the main contributions of this research, which may help in adoption of this technology and solution of similar problems by construction companies.