Tunnelling

Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) are employed in tunnel digging, with different functions: the main one is to dig the tunnel profile, stabilise the digging front, and carry excavated soils away from the tunnel head. When digging in soft and unstable soils, two different types of TBM are employed: Slurry Shield Machines and Earth Pressure Balance Machines (EPBM). The main difference between these two types lies in the method used to stabilise the excavation front. Slurry Shield machines use bentonite or polymer slurries injected onto the head of the tunnel to cool it down and prop up the front of the working face. Further, slurries form a cake which, in turn, stabilises and seals the tunnel face. In EPBM, pressure digging of the soil provides the necessary support to the working face. In this latter case, the soil is conditioned with foaming agents and additives selected depending on soil features and EPBM specs. Our products can be employed with every available technology and under all working conditions. We can also provide customised solutions to meet specific requirements.