China Railway Engineering Equipment Group Co., Ltd. (CREG) recently unveiled the world’s first “green” Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) in Zhengzhou, China. These state-of-the-art machines, named CREC 1193 and CREC 1237, mark a significant step forward in sustainable tunneling technology. Designed with a focus on eco-friendliness, they are set to revolutionize the construction of underground infrastructure.
Technical Specifications and Design
The green TBMs boast impressive dimensions and capabilities:
- Diameter: 9.16 meters
- Length: 135 meters
- Weight: Approximately 1,900 tons
These cutting-edge machines are specifically engineered for challenging tunneling projects, offering advanced features to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency and precision.
Application: High-Speed Rail in Sicily
The CREC 1193 and CREC 1237 TBMs will play a pivotal role in the construction of the Fiumefreddo-Giampilieri section of a high-speed railway in Sicily, Italy. This section forms part of the Palermo-Catania-Messina high-capacity railway, a critical infrastructure project designed to enhance connectivity and transportation efficiency in the region.
Key details of the project include:
- Total Tunnel Length: 42 kilometers (twin-tube single-track tunnels)
- TBM-Driven Subsections: 6, with the longest subsection measuring approximately 9.1 kilometers
- Buried Depth: Ranges from 10 to 300 meters
- Minimum Curve Radius: 300 meters
Geotechnical Challenges
The geological conditions along the alignment present a complex set of challenges. The strata consist of:
- Rock Types: Marlstone, metamorphic clastic rock, limestone, dolomite, phyllite, gravel, and silt
- Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS): 15 to 60 MPa
These diverse and demanding conditions require advanced tunneling technology, making the green TBMs an ideal choice for the project
A Greener Future for TBMs
CREG’s green TBMs are designed to minimize their environmental footprint. While specific eco-friendly features of the machines have not been disclosed, the designation “green” suggests innovations such as energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and minimized impact on surrounding ecosystems. These advancements align with global efforts to promote sustainability in large-scale infrastructure projects.
Conclusion
The launch of the CREC 1193 and CREC 1237 TBMs represents a significant milestone in tunneling technology and sustainable construction. As they prepare to tackle the ambitious Fiumefreddo-Giampilieri section of the Palermo-Catania-Messina railway, these green TBMs demonstrate the potential for innovative engineering to address complex challenges while supporting environmental stewardship.