What are vertical shafts and what is their function in infrastructure works?

The vertical wells are deep excavations that are made vertically from the surface to the subsoil. These structures act as access and control points in infrastructure works, allowing the mobilization of machinery and the transfer of personnel, as well as facilitating maintenance, inspection and ventilation tasks in subway systems.

In excavation and microtunneling projects, vertical shafts serve crucial functions. First, they serve as conduits for bringing equipment in and out, allowing controlled progress of the work in tunnels and other subway structures. They also function as evacuation routes for materials, where debris is collected and water is removed, avoiding accumulations that could affect the stability of the ground. In addition, these shafts facilitate access for inspections and technical adjustments during the execution and maintenance of the infrastructure, which is essential to ensure the safety and durability of the work.

Another important aspect is that vertical shafts allow the implementation of ventilation systems in subway works, ensuring a safe working environment and minimizing the risks associated with the accumulation of gases or lack of oxygen. Also, in many projects, these wells are used to inject or extract fluids, regulating ground pressure and contributing to the stabilization of the excavation. Therefore, their correct design and execution are essential for the success and operational continuity of complex projects in urban and high traffic environments.

In summary, vertical shafts are fundamental elements in subway construction, as they allow safe access, facilitate the logistics of equipment and materials, and ensure environmental and structural control during the execution of infrastructure works. These aspects make them an indispensable strategic tool to guarantee efficiency and safety in large-scale projects.