What does the segment tunnel consist of and what are its advantages?

The segment tunnel is a high-tech construction technique in subway engineering that uses precast concrete segments, called "segments", to form the structural lining of the tunnel. These elements are manufactured under controlled conditions, ensuring quality and precision, and then transported to the site to be assembled in consecutive rings as the tunnel is excavated. During the excavation process, the lining with segments is immediately installed, providing immediate support to the ground and preventing possible collapse, a fundamental feature in drilling projects in complex geotechnical conditions.

Among the main advantages of the segmental tunnel is the speed of execution, since the prefabrication of the segments considerably reduces on-site installation times. This allows the lining to be placed continuously as the excavation progresses, improving safety and stability throughout the operation. In addition, the precision in the fabrication and assembly of the segments ensures that each segment fits perfectly with the next, resulting in a robust and highly durable structure, ideal for critical infrastructure. The system's adaptability is another important advantage: it is applicable to a wide variety of terrains and conditions, both in urban and rural environments, allowing its use in a variety of projects, from the construction of sewage networks to tunnels for transportation or supply.

This technique also minimizes the need for additional post-construction interventions, as the lining significantly contributes to the long-term structural integrity of the tunnel. In short, the segmental tunnel combines efficiency, speed, safety and durability, offering an ideal solution for those infrastructure projects that require minimizing risk during construction and guaranteeing a reliable and durable structure.