We'll be using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at during this project. The tunneling process occurs underground using a tunnel boring machine (TBM); however, shafts are required along the alignment and placed in engineered distances. During tunneling, it may appear not much work is occurring; however, this is being done underground.
The Tunnel Boring Machine will be operating 24 hours a day at the following locations:
About the Tunnel Boring Machine
A Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is machine used to excavate tunnels by breaking the surrounding soil, earth and / or rock to create a large diameter tunnel.
The TBM being used for this project is 4 metres long, 2.3 metres in diameter and weighs approximately 35 tonnes. It's anticipated that the TBM will tunnel at a speed of about 6 meters per day in the expected conditions.
The TBM operates under a pressure system to move forward. This is facilitated by the use of a slurry (water and material mixture) to lubricate the pipes and reduce the friction. When tunneling stops, the slurry may harden and cause the pipes and TBM not be able to be pushed forward. Because of this, the TBM will need to operate 24 hours a day.