EPB earth pressure tunnel boring machine
Excavation with EPB earth pressure tunnel boring machines (TBMs)
At Eurohinca, our tuneladoras EPB de presión de tierras están diseñadas para afrontar con eficacia los retos de la excavación en suelos blandos o poco cohesionados. Este tipo de closed shield trabaja estabilizando el frente de excavación mediante presión balanceada, lo que lo convierte en una solución ideal para túneles urbanos.
Esta técnica se complementa con otros métodos avanzados, como el Direct Pipe, que combina características de perforación dirigida y microtunelación, o la horizontal directional drilling, ideal para obras sin zanja en zonas sensibles.
Advantages of using a tunnel with an earth pressure shield
Optar por una tuneladora EPB (Earth Pressure Balance) proporciona importantes ventajas: control de presión frontal, avance seguro en suelos complejos y mínima afección en superficie.
Este tipo de maquinaria ha sido determinante en numerosos proyectos de urban sewage systems, drainage works y gas pipeline tunnels.
Para condiciones más extremas, como suelos saturados o con alto nivel freático, se puede optar por un hydro shield, otra variante de escudo cerrado con inyección de lodos para estabilización.
Esta tecnología está respaldada por las Directrices ITA-AITES sobre excavación mecanizada, referencia internacional para la planificación y operación de escudos cerrados.
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Projects around the world
Gracias a nuestra experiencia en técnicas como pipe ramming y excavación con escudo cerrado, hemos desarrollado obras en más de 20 países.
Desde submarine emissaries hasta cruces de ríos y cursos de agua, Eurohinca ha participado en proyectos de referencia que exigen precisión, sostenibilidad y tecnología puntera.
Conoce más en nuestra sección de obras ejecutadas.
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Consulta nuestras últimas noticias sobre tuneladoras EPB y otros métodos de excavación, donde exploramos casos reales de aplicación, avances técnicos y comparativas con otros sistemas como la hinca convencional o el microtúnel con escudo abierto.
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Frequently asked questions on closed shield TBMs
Resuelve tus dudas sobre el funcionamiento de las tuneladoras de presión de tierras, su aplicación en distintos suelos y sus diferencias con otras tecnologías como el open shield or the hinca convencional. Accede a todas en nuestra sección de preguntas frecuentes.
What is an EPB TBM and how does it work?
A EPB tunnel boring machine (Pressurized Earth Balance) is a type of earth pressure shield that excavates tunnels while maintaining a constant pressure at the tunnel face. It works by using the excavation spoil to balance the pressure and avoid subsidence. This type of TBM is ideal for soft or mixed soils, providing stability and safety during the excavation process.
What are the main benefits of using an EPB TBM?
The EPB tunnel boring machines offer several key benefits, such as precise control over ground pressure, which reduces the risk of collapse. In addition, they enable excavation in difficult terrain and tunnel construction with less impact on surface infrastructure. They also help maintain tunnel stability and facilitate efficient muck removal.
How is the pressure in the tunnel face controlled with an EPB TBM?
In a EPB tunnel boring machineThe pressure in the tunnel face is controlled by the use of rubble accumulated in the extraction chamber. This material helps to balance the pressure exerted by the ground. The spoil is extracted by means of a worm screw, and the speed and force of the thrust cylinders adjust the pressure to maintain tunnel stability.
What kind of soils are most suitable for using an EPB TBM?
The EPB tunnel boring machines are especially effective in soft, mixed or high water soils. This equipment is designed to handle challenging terrains in terms of stability and pressure, allowing tunnels to be constructed safely and efficiently in difficult conditions.
What technology is used in EPB TBMs to ensure accurate excavation?
The EPB tunnel boring machines use advanced technologies such as laser systems and levels to guide the shield and ensure precise excavation. These systems allow precise control of tunnel direction and alignment, optimizing the excavation process and minimizing the impact on surface infrastructure.
What measures are taken to protect nearby infrastructure during excavation of an earth pressure shield tunnel?
To protect nearby infrastructures during the excavation of a tunnel using earth pressure shield o EPB tunnel boring machineIn addition, the tunnel face pressure is meticulously controlled and the ground is continuously monitored. The accumulation and transport of muck, along with precise adjustments in auger speed and thrust cylinder force, help prevent subsidence and damage to surface structures.
Solve your doubts in our section of frequent questions.
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