Tunnel Boring Machine Herrenknecht / EPB SHIELD

Revolutionising Underground Construction: EPB Shield Tunnel Boring Machines In the world of tunnelling, Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) Shield machines are changing the game. These innovative tunnel boring machines (TBMs) excel in soft ground conditions, providing a fast and efficient solution for underground construction. Key features: - Ideal for soft ground with low water permeability (clay, silt, loam) - Diameter range: 1.7-16m - Uses excavated material as support How it works: 1. A cutting wheel excavates the soil 2. Excavated material is mixed into a malleable paste 3. The pressure of the paste is balanced by the pressure of the surrounding soil 4. Excavated material is removed by screw conveyor Advantages: - High feed rates in cohesive soils - Versatile use due to soil conditioning - No additional support required - Minimal surface disturbance EPB Shields can be conditioned to suit different soil conditions, extending their usefulness. This makes them ideal for urban tunnelling projects where minimising surface disturbance is critical. As cities grow and infrastructure needs increase, EPB Shield TBMs will play a key role in shaping our underground future. Their combination of speed, efficiency and adaptability makes them the first choice for modern tunnelling projects.