Vertical tunnel boring machines are engineering equipment used to excavate large diameter shafts or tunnels accurately and efficiently. This type of machinery is used in urban infrastructure projects, mining, and in the construction of outfalls and other subway utilities. Thanks to their ability to excavate vertically, large subway spaces can be created with less impact on the surface.
In this post, we will explain in detail how a vertical tunnel boring machine works and the benefits of its use in subway construction projects.
Basic principles of a vertical tunnel boring machine
A vertical tunnel boring machine, also known as a "vertical TBM", is the most common type of tunnel boring machine.raise boring machineThe "vertical tunnel boring machine," uses a rotating cutterhead to dig downward instead of forward. Unlike horizontal TBMs, which are mainly used to excavate tunnels in a straight line, vertical TBMs can bore shafts and vertical shafts of large diameters.
The operation of a vertical TBM begins with the creation of a small pilot hole that guides the machine as it digs downward. Subsequently, the cutting head expands to enlarge the hole until the desired final diameter is reached.
This process is highly controlled, allowing safe and precise excavation. In addition, the vertical TBMs are equipped with monitoring systems that allow the pressure and cutting speed to be adjusted in real time to adapt to ground conditions.
Vertical tunnel boring machine applications
Vertical tunnel boring machines are widely used in various sectors due to their versatility and precision. Among the most common applications are:
Construction of wells and pipelines
In remediation projects, vertical tunnel boring machines play a key role in the construction of ventilation shafts or access for large outfall tunnels. This allows subway infrastructure, such as subsea outfalls, to efficiently connect to the surface, improving the handling and distribution of treated or wastewater.
Mining excavation
In the mining sector, vertical tunnel boring machines are used for the creation of extraction and ventilation shafts, facilitating access to the deepest levels of mines. Their ability to work in complex and harsh terrain is critical to the success of these operations.
Construction of urban infrastructure
Cities that are constantly expanding often require subway tunnels and shafts for the installation of essential services such as electricity, drinking water or sewage systems. In such projects, vertical tunnel boring machines minimize the impact on the surface, which is especially important in densely populated areas.
Horizontal directional drilling projects are also often complemented by vertical tunneling works to connect different subway levels.
Main components of a vertical tunnel boring machine
A vertical tunnel boring machine is composed of several key elements that work together to perform boreholes:
Cutting head
The cutterhead is the key part of the vertical tunnel boring machine. This component is equipped with heavy-duty cutting discs that rotate to penetrate and break up the rock or soil. As it moves forward, the cutterhead removes the excavated material and transports it to the surface.
Anchoring system
Since vertical TBMs dig straight down, it is crucial that the machine remains perfectly aligned. To achieve this, vertical TBMs are equipped with anchoring systems that ensure the stability of the machine during the drilling process.
Material extraction system
As the TBM excavates, the excess material must be removed efficiently. To do this, mechanical conveying systems are used to bring the waste to the surface for disposal.
This type of system is similar to the system used in drilling with tunnel boring machines horizontal, but adapted to the vertical characteristics.
Benefits of using vertical TBMs
The use of vertical tunnel boring machines offers a number of advantages over other excavation techniques. The main benefits include:
Accuracy and safety
Thanks to their advanced design and technology, vertical tunnel boring machines allow excavations to be carried out with a very high level of precision. This reduces the risk of damage to nearby structures and ensures safety throughout the process.
Reduction of surface impact
One of the main advantages of vertical tunnel boring machines is that they allow large shafts to be excavated without the need for extensive surface trenching. This is especially important in urban areas, where space is limited and disruptions to traffic and other daily activities must be minimized.
Speed in project execution
The use of vertical tunnel boring machines significantly speeds up the excavation process. Compared to traditional boring methods, TBMs can complete projects in less time, resulting in greater efficiency and lower costs.
Adaptability to different types of terrain
Vertical tunnel boring machines are designed to operate in a wide variety of terrains, from soft soils to hard rock. This makes them an ideal solution for projects where different types of materials must be drilled.
Recent innovations in vertical TBMs
In recent years, vertical tunnel boring machine technology has advanced considerably. More compact and efficient models have been developed, capable of adapting to more complex and specific projects. For example, remote monitoring and control systems have allowed operators to make real-time adjustments without stopping the operation, increasing efficiency and reducing downtime.
This type of innovation can also be observed in other areas of the drilling and excavationThe company's environmental impact and sustainability of these projects has been improved.
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