Design and Construction of Machine Tunneling

Machine tunneling refers to the method of excavating tunnels using specialised machines called Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). These machines are designed to bore through various geological formations efficiently and safely. Machine tunnelling is crucial in civil engineering for creating underground passages for transportation, water supply and sewage systems without disrupting surface activities. As the machine advances, it installs tunnel supports simultaneously, such as concrete segments or precast lining, to stabilise the tunnel walls. This method reduces the need for manual labour and minimises environmental impact compared to traditional drilling and blasting techniques. Machine tunnelling requires careful planning to accommodate geological conditions and make certain the structural integrity and safety of the tunnel throughout its lifespan. This book presents the complex subject of machine tunnelling in the most comprehensible and easy to understand language. The topics covered in this extensive book deal with the core subjects of civil engineering. For someone with an interest and eye for detail, this book covers the most significant topics in the field of design and construction of machine tunnelling.