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World Tunnelling Congress
Abstract: It is common not to consider the spatial heterogeneity of geomechanical properties when numerical analysis is used in the support design of mountain tunnels. For this reason, tunnel behaviour that greatly exceeds the predictions by numerical analysis may occur at the site. In this study, in order to clarify the effects of the spatial heterogeneity of geomechanical properties in soft rock mass...
Abstract: Every major project has a significant challenge. How to manage and implement change! Engineers make decisions based on multi-disciplinary input and efforts. Compressed programs require parallel design development. The change management approach influences how you price, design, and manage project delivery within budget. In most cases, shaft configurations are standardized to ensure consistent...
Abstract: In slurry shield tunnelling, knowledge of the existing support mechanism at the tunnel face is of great importance. So far, no precise statements can be made about the storage of bentonite particles in the soil structure of soft soil. Geoelectrics offers the possibility to create structural models of soils in real time by determining the electrical resistance of the soil. The electrical...
Abstract: Dry-Flo® is a DNV verified, unique technology that allows deluge systems to be tested for performance without the use of water. Originally developed for oil and gas applications to minimize corrosion and the inherent disruption of wet testing operations. Dry-Flo® was utilized as a World first on a major road tunnel project in Australia in 2020, saving significant water and energy usage whilst...
Abstract: The Emerald Book includes a provision for adjustment of time, in addition to current contract standards that only foresee extension of time for completion. Having been published in 2019, at present there are no direct experiences of contracts under the Emerald Book. However, in various national contexts the adjustment of time is being applied in contracts similar to the new FIDIC Form of...
Abstract: Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) or microprocessors are standard features on Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) to monitor and record various sensory systems providing options for control and automation of machine processes. The data collected from these sensory systems and channelled through PLC is stored for real-time analysis and use by the operators and per typical construction specifications...
Abstract: A significant part of the energy consumed during the tunnelling process of Earth Pressure Balanced (EPB) Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) is related to the main drive, consisting of a set of motors driving the rotation of the cutting wheel. An energy efficient EPB design requires the optimization of the main drive to avoid over- or under powering of the machine. Key aspect is therefore a precise...
Abstract: Energy consumption in the operation of tunnels is an underestimated topic considering the high energy needs for this type of infrastructure. Energy savings in tunnels can be achieved through innovative design and management, above all, during the operation of ventilation and lighting. The best way to achieve immediate and effective benefits must be identified through a cost-benefit analysis and...
Abstract: HIS is a grouting system of high cement content modified with some reaction resin in a one-shot application. It accelerates cement sticking and hardening. Therefore, the material is not washed out and the strength development in early states is activated. With these benefits the Hybrid Injection System closes the gap between economically pure cement grouting and technical highly effective...
Abstract: Ventilation is a primary requirement for all kinds of complex underground facilities, both in normal operating conditions and in case of fire. Experience shows that the environmental footprint of complex ventilation systems can be very large. Different ventilation concepts used for underground facilities can have widely different energy consumptions. The present paper focuses on the importance...
Abstract: “Riachuelo - Lote 3” forms part of a massive hydraulic scheme being implemented in Buenos Aires to increase the sewage capacity of one of the biggest metropolitan areas worldwide. The overall scheme is intended to treat the wastewater and then discharge it into the “Rio de la Plata” river thereby relieving the “Riachuelo” river basin from its pollution. The project foresees the execution of a...
Abstract: Many subway tunnels near tidal rivers are reported to have chloride induced deterioration, with the damage often found recurring where previously repaired. This project studied chloride induced deterioration of tunnels, focusing on the influence range of chloride ions contained in leakage water, and established examination and repair methods to prevent damage recurrence. Sections near rivers or...
Abstract: During the tunnel excavation process the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) advances by thrusting against the newest assembled ring. At this stage, the thrust jacks exert very high concentrated loads on the precast tunnel segments, resulting in high compression stresses and tensile bursting forces under the thrust jack plate, as well as spalling tensile forces between the pads. In the presented...
Abstract: At the Mont Terri Underground Rock Laboratory (URL), in Switzerland, a series of scientific research projects are being undertaken to enhance knowledge and capability for the development of deep geological repositories for disposal of radioactive waste. This paper presents the monitoring campaign carried out as part of the Tunnel Support (TS) Experiment, in order to assess the performance of...
Abstract: Excavation and construction of long industrial tunnels, as one of the major sustainable development’s infrastructures, causes few hundreds of casualties around the world. FARAB Co. despite of performing numerous excavation activities in 10 years and constructed 26km tunnels with 4.3 diameter, using Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) and Drilling-Blasting method, has achieved the record of 20,000,000...
Abstract: There frequently exists inadequacy regarding the number of boreholes installed along tunnel alignment. While geophysical imaging techniques are available for pre-tunnelling geological characterization, detecting specific object (e.g. water body and karst cave) is still a tedious task and has space for accuracy to improve. There remains great motivation for the industry to develop a real-time...