The term "gunite machine" was used before the introduction of "shotcrete machine", referring to dry mixing jetting. It was invented by American Carl Akley in 1907 and registered as a trademark by the Cement Gun Company in 1911. The spraying gun, also invented by Akeley, is the eponym of “gunite machine”. This is also the reason for the use of the verb “gunning” to refer to the spraying process.
In 1920, this innovative process first spread to Europe, India, and South Africa, and then to the West Coast of the United States and South America, despite their geographical proximity. This may be the explanation for the term “gunite machine” (Spanish: “gunita”), stemming from this earlier period, still being used a lot in Spain, whereas South American countries prefer the term “sprayed concrete” (Spanish: “hormigón/concreto proyectado/lanzado”), as well as “shotcrete machine” stemming from a later period of development.
Gunite Machine was a proprietary trademark until 1971 and is still used as a generic term, especially in North America where the entire process began. Nowadays, "shotcrete machine" is a widely accepted term, equivalent to “sprayed concrete machine” or “sprayed mortar machine”.
