Large Weldment Parts Machining for Tunnel Boring Machine

Recently, we're working on some large weldments' fabrication and machining for a Tunnel Boring Machine.

What is Tunnel Boring Machine?

Tunnel Boring Machine is a special kind of construction equipment used to excavate tunnels in the ground for various purposes such as transportation, water supply, sewage disposal, and mining.

The machine is typically made up of a rotating cutting wheel that is equipped with cutting tools, and a shield or shell that protects the workers and equipment inside from the surrounding soil and rock. As the TBM moves forward, the cutting wheel excavates the soil and rock, and the shield supports the tunnel walls and ceiling until they can be lined with a permanent material, such as concrete segments.

Tunneling shield machines are highly efficient and precise, allowing for the construction of tunnels with minimal surface disruption and environmental impact. They can excavate tunnels of various shapes and sizes, and can operate in a range of ground conditions, including soft soils, hard rock, and everything in between.

Composition of Tunnel Boring Machine

A Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is a large and complex piece of equipment designed to excavate tunnels in rock and other hard materials. The composition of a TBM can vary depending on the specific design and purpose of the machine, but it typically consists of the following components:

• Cutter head: The cutter head is the front part of the TBM that cuts through the rock or other hard material. It typically includes a rotating cutter wheel or disc that is fitted with cutting tools such as disc cutters, roller cutters, or drag bits.
• Shield Body: The shield body is the main part of the TBM that surrounds the cutter head and protects the workers and equipment inside the machine. The shield typically consists of several sections that are bolted together to form a cylindrical or box-shaped structure.
• Thrust system: The thrust system is used to push the TBM forward as it excavates the tunnel. It typically includes hydraulic jacks or thrust cylinders that apply force to the shield or the tunnel lining behind the TBM.
• Screw conveyor system: The screw conveyor system is used to extract the excavated material from the tunnel and transport it to the rear of the TBM, where it is removed by a conveyor system.
• Segmental lining system: The segmental lining system is used to install precast concrete or other materials to line the tunnel walls. The segments are typically transported to the front of the TBM via a conveyor system and installed behind the TBM as it progresses forward.
• Control cabin: The control cabin is the operator's compartment and houses the controls and instrumentation for the TBM. It is typically located at the rear of the machine and is isolated from the excavation chamber.
• Power and support systems: The TBM requires a power source to operate the cutter head, screw conveyor, and thrust system. It also requires support systems such as ventilation, lighting, and water supply systems to maintain a safe working environment inside the tunnel.

The parts we're working on are parts of the shield body.

How are the parts made?

The shield body of a tunneling shield is typically made using steel plates that are welded together to form a cylindrical or box-shaped shell. The process of manufacturing the shield body can vary depending on the specific design and purpose of the machine, here are the fabrication processes of the body parts we're processing:

• Steel fabrication: The steel plates that will make up the shield body parts are cut, bent, and shaped to the required dimensions using specialized equipment such as plasma cutting machines, press brakes, and plate rolling machines.
• Welding: The steel plates are then welded together to form the shell of the shield body. This is done using a combination of manual and automated welding techniques.
• Machining: After the welding is complete, the shield body is machined to ensure that it is the correct size and shape so that all the components fit together correctly. This involves the use of milling machines, lathes, and other precision machining tools.
• Surface treatment: Finally, the surface of the shield body is treated to protect it from corrosion and wear. This involves the application of coatings such as epoxy or polyurethane, or the use of galvanization or other metal surface treatments.

The manufacturing process of the shield body is critical to ensure that it is strong and durable enough to withstand the loads and stresses it will be subjected to during tunneling operations.

In addition to those shield body parts processing, we have also processed shield body parts, brackets, steel shells, manholes, conveyors, frames, and other parts for different types of tunnel boring machines.

Contact us at sales3@openex.com.cn or call us at +86 186 5928 0806 for more information about our metal fabrication capability or to receive a free project quote today.