In the history of human engineering, the shield tunneling machine has become the "subterranean behemoth" of modern tunnel construction, owing to its powerful functionality and outstanding performance. As an advanced tunneling device, the shield tunneling machine plays an irreplaceable role in tunnel construction, making significant contributions to human transportation and infrastructure development.

　　The working principle of a shield tunneling machine combines mechanical excavation with soil support. It cuts and breaks through strata using a rotating cutterhead while supporting and protecting the excavation face with a shield structure to prevent ground collapse. During the advancement of the shield tunneling machine, structural materials such as tunnel segments are progressively installed within the excavated tunnel to form a complete tunnel structure.

　　Shield tunneling machines come in various types such as slurry shield tunneling machines, earth pressure balance tunneling machines, and hard rock tunneling machines, tailored to different geological conditions and engineering requirements. Slurry shield tunneling machines are mainly used in soft soil layers, earth pressure balance tunneling machines are suitable for sand, clay, and similar formations, while hard rock tunneling machines are employed in rock formations.

　　The application scope of shield tunneling machines is extensive, spanning railway and highway tunnel construction to fields like water conservancy, subway, and urban rail transit. For instance, in the construction of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway, shield tunneling machines were extensively used for tunneling through complex geological conditions such as crossing the Yangtze River. Furthermore, shield tunneling machines can achieve long-distance, high-precision tunneling, significantly enhancing the efficiency and quality of tunnel construction.

　　The advantages of shield tunneling machines lie in their efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness. Compared to traditional tunnel excavation methods, they reduce ground destruction and disturbance, thus lowering environmental impact. Moreover, shield tunneling machines boast fast construction speed and high precision, meeting the stringent requirements of modern tunnel construction for schedule and quality.

　　However, the use of shield tunneling machines also faces challenges and limitations. Firstly, the procurement and maintenance costs are high, necessitating substantial financial investment. Secondly, operating and managing shield tunneling machines require skilled technical personnel and teams, demanding high standards of personnel qualifications and skills. Additionally, the construction effectiveness of shield tunneling machines can be influenced by special geological conditions, requiring corresponding measures to address.

　　As a crucial tool in modern tunnel construction, shield tunneling machines have been widely applied globally. In the future, with the continuous advancement of technology and the growing demand for engineering, shield tunneling machines will continue to innovate and make greater contributions to human infrastructure development. Simultaneously, there is a need to strengthen technical research and talent development in the shield tunneling machine industry to promote its sustainable development.

　　Recently, the Haizhu Bay Tunnel project has completed the comprehensive task of pouring tunnel segments, marking a significant milestone. Starting from September 2022, the first tunnel segment was poured, and after more than 700 days and nights of work, the entire task of pouring tunnel segments has been completed, providing solid support for the project's goal of full line connection by July this year.

　　Located in Guangzhou, the Haizhu Bay Tunnel project traverses the Haizhu District and Panyu District, with a total length of 4.35 kilometers, making it the first super-large-diameter municipal shield tunnel in the Pearl River Basin. The tunnel consists of a total of 2117 rings of tunnel segments, with each ring composed of 10 segments, adopting a "7+2+1" segmented form, namely 7 standard segments, 2 adjacent segments, and 1 top segment.

　　To ensure the quality and safety of tunnel construction, the Haizhu Bay Tunnel project has adopted an advanced tunnel segment management system. Each tunnel segment is assigned a unique "identity card" and information archives are established through QR code spraying, recording the full life cycle information from production to use, achieving full traceability management of the tunnel segments.

　　The construction of the Haizhu Bay Tunnel is carried out in accordance with urban expressway standards, with a design speed of 60 kilometers per hour, a mainline bidirectional 6-lane road, including a 3.46-kilometer-long river-crossing tunnel and 3 interchanges. The total investment in the project is approximately 11.68 billion yuan, and it is invested, constructed, and managed by Guangzhou Transportation Investment Group in an operational mode, spanning both Haizhu District and Panyu District.

　　After the completion of the Haizhu Bay Tunnel, it will significantly shorten the travel time between the central urban area of Guangzhou and Guangzhou South Station, with an estimated travel time of within 15 minutes, which is of great significance for residents' travel and promoting the interconnection of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. As of now, the project has completed 71% of the visual progress, and the overall project is expected to be fully open to traffic in June 2025.

　　There are various types of tunneling machines designed to meet different engineering requirements and geological conditions. Here are some common types:

　　1. Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM): A TBM is a specialized mechanical equipment used for excavating underground tunnels. It includes various types such as shield machines, hard rock TBMs, and earth pressure balance TBMs, chosen based on specific project needs.

　　TBMs typically consist of a cutting head, disc cutters, propulsion system, screw conveyor, and support systems. The cutting head can be adapted with different tools and operating modes according to geological conditions.

　　2. Drilling Jumbo: Primarily used for drilling and blasting operations in underground projects like tunneling pre-works, rock control, and support, commonly employed in mining and tunneling projects. A drilling jumbo typically comprises multiple drill heads, enabling simultaneous drilling operations to enhance efficiency.

　　3. Roadheader: A mechanical device utilized for excavating underground roads, tunnels, and other subterranean passages, suitable for various types of rock and soil geology. Roadheaders typically employ rotary cutting heads or disc cutters to excavate rock and soil, while hydraulic systems control and propel the machine.

　　4. Mining Tunneling Machine: Similar in function to tunnel boring machines, mining tunneling machines are employed for excavation operations in underground mines. They include light and heavy-duty machines used for extracting minerals, coal, salt, etc. Mining tunneling machines generally possess higher production capacity and stronger drilling capabilities to meet the demands of mining operations.

　　5. Foundation Engineering Tunneling Machine: Primarily used for underground excavation in building foundation projects such as digging underground tunnels, pipelines, and excavations for basements, contributing to improving the efficiency and quality of foundation engineering construction.

　　These are just a few common types of tunneling machines. With ongoing technological advancements and evolving engineering requirements, new types and improved models may emerge in the future.

　　Shield tunneling machines are commonly used construction machinery in underground tunneling projects. They possess advanced features such as automation control, multifunctionality, precise guidance, environmental protection, energy conservation, and data monitoring, providing reliable technical support for large-scale underground construction projects. Let's introduce the top 10 shield tunneling machine manufacturers in China.

　　1. CREC (China Railway Engineering Equipment Group Co., Ltd.) Heavy Industry: A significant subsidiary of China Railway Engineering Corporation, specializing in the design, manufacturing, and sales of shield tunneling machines and subway engineering equipment. The company boasts advanced technology and rich experience in the field of shield tunneling machines.

　　2. Northern Heavy Industries Group Co., Ltd.: A renowned engineering machinery manufacturing enterprise in China, with shield tunneling machines being one of its main products. The company holds a leading position in both technology and market share in the field of shield tunneling machines.

　　3. Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd.: As one of the leading enterprises in China's engineering machinery industry, Sany Heavy Industry not only has extensive business in areas like cranes and concrete machinery but also possesses its own research and development capabilities in shield tunneling machines.

　　4. XCMG (Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group Co., Ltd.): A significant member of China Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group, also one of the leading engineering machinery manufacturers in China. Its shield tunneling machine products enjoy a good reputation in both domestic and international markets.

　　5. CRRC (China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation) Industrial Group: An important enterprise under China CRRC Group, focusing on infrastructure construction such as railways, highways, and subways, with shield tunneling machines as one of its core products.

　　6. China Railway Engineering Equipment Co., Ltd. (CREG): A Chinese enterprise specializing in urban rail transit engineering, with shield tunneling machines as one of its important products. The company is committed to providing intelligent engineering solutions.

　　7. Tianhe Mechanical: A professional enterprise in China specializing in the manufacture of tunnel engineering machinery, with many years of experience in shield tunneling machine manufacturing, ensuring stable and reliable product quality.

　　8. XGMA (Xiamen Engineering Machinery Co., Ltd.) Machinery Co., Ltd.: An important representative of the engineering machinery manufacturing industry in Xiamen, China. Its shield tunneling machine products have certain competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

　　9. Zosen Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.: A professional manufacturer of shield tunneling machines and related equipment, with a complete production line and quality control system, selling products both domestically and internationally.

　　10. China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC): One of the leading enterprises in China's heavy equipment manufacturing industry, with shield tunneling machines being one of its important products, possessing strong technological research and development capabilities and production capacity.

　　These are the top 10 shield tunneling machine manufacturers in China. These enterprises have different characteristics and advantages in the field of shield tunneling machines, providing important technical support and equipment guarantee for tunnel engineering construction in China and even globally.

　　Shield tunneling machines, seemingly complex yet fascinating mechanical behemoths, have become the cornerstone of modern tunnel construction. With their powerful excavation capabilities and precise construction techniques, they have opened a new chapter in underground engineering for humanity. Let's delve into the world of shield tunneling machines to explore the mysteries and allure behind them.

　　I. Origin and Development of Shield Tunneling Machines

　　The history of shield tunneling machines can be traced back to early 19th-century England. In order to construct a tunnel beneath the Thames River, engineer Marc Isambard Brunel invented a construction method called "shield tunneling." This method involved supporting the tunnel walls by constructing a movable steel "shield" within the tunnel, facilitating excavation and construction. With technological advancements, shield tunneling machines have evolved into the high-tech marvels we know today.

　　II. Working Principle of Shield Tunneling Machines

　　The working principle of shield tunneling machines is not overly complicated; they mainly rely on a series of precision mechanical devices and advanced control systems to perform complex operations such as excavation, support, and propulsion. Specifically, the front end of a shield tunneling machine is equipped with a rotating cutterhead that cuts through the soil with high-speed rotating blades. Simultaneously, an internal screw conveyor transports the excavated soil to the rear discharge chute. Behind the cutterhead, the machine's support system automatically deploys prefabricated concrete segments, forming a sturdy tunnel lining to ensure construction safety.

　　III. Advantages and Challenges of Shield Tunneling Machines

　　The emergence of shield tunneling machines has greatly improved the efficiency and safety of tunnel construction. They can operate under various complex geological conditions and boast a high degree of automation, significantly reducing labor costs. However, their use also presents some challenges. For instance, in certain geological conditions such as soft soil or hard rock, shield tunneling machines require tailored design and adjustments to adapt to different construction environments. Additionally, the maintenance and upkeep of shield tunneling machines pose a formidable task, necessitating regular inspections and maintenance by skilled technicians.

　　IV. Applications of Shield Tunneling Machines in Modern Tunnel Construction

　　Today, shield tunneling machines are widely used in tunnel construction across various sectors including railways, highways, water conservancy, and municipal infrastructure. Whether traversing mountain ranges or crossing major rivers, shield tunneling machines showcase their unique advantages. For example, in the construction of subway tunnels crossing the Yangtze River in Wuhan, shield tunneling machines were employed to successfully overcome challenges posed by complex geological conditions. Furthermore, with the continuous advancement of technology, the functionality of shield tunneling machines is expanding and improving, offering promising prospects for playing crucial roles in future tunnel construction projects.

　　As the "giants" of modern tunnel construction, shield tunneling machines have made significant contributions to underground engineering for humanity with their powerful excavation capabilities and precise construction techniques. Despite facing challenges during operation, it is believed that with ongoing technological progress and innovation, shield tunneling machines will play an even more significant role in future tunnel construction, contributing to the creation of a better living environment for humanity.

　　As the core equipment in tunnel engineering, tunnel boring machine (TBM) manufacturers are widely recognized worldwide. These manufacturers provide strong support for tunnel construction globally with advanced technology, excellent quality, and rich experience. So, do you know which manufacturers produce TBMs? Next, let's explore the well-known TBM manufacturers both domestically and internationally.

　　I. Domestic TBM Manufacturers

　　1. China Railway Construction Heavy Industry (CRCHI): A subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), specializing in TBM research, development, and manufacturing, with products widely used in urban rail transit, railway tunnels, and other fields.

　　2. Northern Heavy Industries Group Co., Ltd. (NHI): A large enterprise located in Dalian, Liaoning Province, with qualifications for TBM production and manufacturing covering various models and specifications.

　　3. XCMG Group: A well-known construction machinery manufacturer in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, also involved in the TBM field, providing high-quality TBM products.

　　4. Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd.: One of China's largest construction machinery manufacturers, with its TBM business continuously growing and boasting strong technological capabilities.

　　5. China Railway Construction Heavy Industry Corporation (CRCHI): Affiliated with China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), focusing on the research and manufacturing of TBMs and related equipment, offering reliable product quality.

　　6. Tianhe Machinery: Specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of TBMs and supporting equipment, with strong technological innovation capabilities.

　　7. China Railway Shanhe Intelligent Equipment Group Co., Ltd.: A high-tech enterprise in Changsha, Hunan Province, venturing into TBM manufacturing, providing intelligent and efficient TBM products.

　　8. Xugong Machinery: A renowned construction machinery manufacturer in Xiamen, Fujian Province, also producing TBMs, known for high quality and excellent after-sales service.

　　9. Jereh Group: A machinery manufacturing enterprise in Jinan, Shandong Province, with qualifications for TBM production, mainly applied in the tunnel construction field.

　　10. China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC): A subsidiary of China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, besides shipbuilding, also involved in the TBM field, offering customized TBM solutions.

　　II. Well-known Foreign TBM Manufacturers

　　1. Herrenknecht AG: A German company, one of the largest TBM manufacturers globally, providing various types and sizes of TBMs.

　　2. The Robbins Company: An American company, specializing in the design and manufacturing of TBMs and tunneling equipment.

　　3. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries: A Japanese company, offering a wide range of engineering and construction equipment, including TBMs.

　　4. Hitachi Zosen Corporation: A Japanese company primarily engaged in shipbuilding and heavy industry, also producing TBMs and tunneling equipment.

　　5. NFM Technologies: A French company specializing in underground engineering and tunneling technology, providing TBMs and related equipment.

　　6. Komatsu Ltd.: A Japanese company mainly producing construction and mining equipment, also offering TBMs.

　　7. Terratec Pty Ltd: An Australian company focusing on TBM and tunneling technology, providing solutions for the global market.

　　8. SELI S.p.A.: An Italian company providing TBM and underground engineering solutions.

　　9. Lovsuns Tunneling Canada Ltd.: A Canadian company specializing in the design and manufacturing of TBMs and tunneling equipment.

　　10. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.: A Japanese company mainly engaged in heavy industry and machinery manufacturing, also offering TBMs and related equipment.

　　How many meters can a tunnel boring machine advance in a day? The working speed of a tunnel boring machine depends on various factors, including geological conditions, machine model and specifications, and operator skills. Generally, in favorable geological conditions, a tunnel boring machine can advance several tens to several hundred meters per day. However, progress may be limited in complex geological conditions. The specific progress is usually evaluated and planned by the construction unit according to the actual situation and project requirements. Below are the excavation speeds of different types of tunnel boring machines under normal conditions.

　　1. Small handheld drilling rigs: These machines are suitable for small-scale projects such as house construction and road maintenance. Their daily advance rate is generally around 10 meters.

　　2. Medium-sized machinery: Such as reverse circulation drilling rigs, hydraulic drilling rigs, etc., they perform well in medium-sized projects. The daily advance rate is between 30-50 meters.

　　3. Large machinery: For example, shield tunneling machines, which are mainly used in large-scale construction projects such as subways and tunnels. Their daily advance rate can reach over 100 meters, and even in ideal geological conditions, it can exceed 200 meters.

　　How much does a pipe jacking machine cost per unit? The price of a pipe jacking machine is influenced by various factors, including the model, specifications, technical parameters, manufacturer, and market supply and demand conditions. Generally, a small used pipe jacking machine may cost tens of thousands of RMB, while a large new pipe jacking machine, especially those with advanced technology and functions, may cost millions or even tens of millions of RMB.

　　For example, the price of some ordinary small earth pressure balance tunnel boring machines (TBMs) may range from 2 to 5 million RMB, while larger and more complex machines, such as hard rock tunnel boring machines (TBMs), may cost 50 to 100 million RMB or more.

　　It should be noted that these prices are for reference only, and actual purchase prices may vary depending on specific circumstances. If you need to purchase a pipe jacking machine, it is recommended to directly contact professional machinery equipment dealers or manufacturers to obtain detailed quotations and product introductions. At the same time, considering that operating and maintaining a pipe jacking machine requires professional knowledge and skills, it is also necessary to ensure appropriate technical support and service guarantees before purchase.

　　As a crucial piece of machinery in tunnel construction, arch anchor Trolley have played an indispensable role in tunnel construction projects both domestically and internationally in recent years. They have not only improved construction efficiency but also made significant contributions to ensuring construction safety and quality.

　　The application of arch anchor Trolley in tunnel support has greatly increased construction efficiency. By mechanizing the process of arch installation, they significantly reduce the demand for manpower and shorten the construction period. Additionally, the precise positioning and installation functions of arch anchor Trolley ensure the quality of the support system, reducing the need for later maintenance and repair work.

　　The adaptability and reliability of arch anchor Trolley under complex geological conditions have also been fully demonstrated. In adverse geological conditions such as soft rock and fractured rock, arch anchor Trolley can provide stable support, effectively preventing collapses and landslides, ensuring the safety of construction personnel.

　　The advantages of arch anchor Trolley in green construction are also significant. Their use reduces environmental damage because they require relatively small excavation volumes and have minimal impact on the surrounding surface. Furthermore, their rapid construction reduces energy consumption and waste generation during construction, promoting sustainable development.

　　The application of arch anchor Trolley has also promoted innovation and development in tunnel construction technology. With increasing demands for the performance of arch anchor Trolley, manufacturers and research institutions are continuously investing in research and development, driving advancements in related technologies such as automation control and remote monitoring. These advancements not only improve the performance of arch anchor cars but also provide valuable insights for the development of other tunnel construction equipment.

　　The application of arch anchor Trolley in tunnel construction has not only improved construction efficiency and safety but also had a positive impact on environmental protection and technological innovation. With the continuous progress of tunnel engineering technology, we have reason to believe that arch anchor Trolley will play an even more important role in future tunnel construction, making greater contributions to the development of human transportation networks.

　　The Huangbai Railway, which spans Guizhou and Guangxi provinces, connects the Nanning-Kunming Railway to the south and the Shanghai-Kunming Railway to the north, forming an essential part of the Western Land-Sea New Channel West Passage. Passing through the revolutionary old areas of Baise, as well as ethnic minority areas such as the Miao, Yao, and Buyi, the railway has a total length of approximately 315 kilometers and is designed for a speed of 160 kilometers per hour. It is classified as a Grade I single-track electrified railway.

　　On May 7th, the tunnel project section of the Guangxi segment of the Huangbai Railway officially entered the construction phase in Lingyun County, Baise City, Guangxi. This marks the comprehensive initiation of the tunnel project section of the Huangbai Railway in Guangxi. The Guangxi section of this railway will include the construction of 33 new tunnels, totaling 109.735 kilometers in length, as well as 33 new bridges, with a total length of 15.974 kilometers. With a bridge-to-tunnel ratio as high as 90.6%, it currently has the highest bridge-to-tunnel ratio among railways in Guangxi.

　　The first super-large tunnel under construction is the Nafu Tunnel, with a total length of 12,357 meters, making it one of the seven super-large tunnels exceeding 10 kilometers along the entire Huangbai Railway line. The tunnel construction adopts the layout of "2 inclined shafts and 1 level guide," with a total of 7 working faces for construction. Due to the enormous length of the tunnel, ventilation poses a significant challenge, with ventilation distances of around 4 kilometers for five of the working faces.

　　To ensure construction quality and progress, the construction unit will deploy 375 construction workers and 60 sets of various construction equipment and vehicles. Additionally, through advanced geological forecasting, monitoring, and specialized optimization design, such as rock drilling cars, hydraulic arch stackers, and automatic pouring of the second lining, the construction level of mechanization and automation has been improved, enhancing construction efficiency and ensuring smooth tunneling.

　　The completion of the Huangbai Railway will play a vital role in the layout of the regional railway network, especially for the freight transport corridor from Sichuan-Chongqing-Guizhou to the Beibu Gulf Port, providing the shortest, optimal, and fastest transportation route and significantly promoting regional economic and social development.

　　The completion of the Huangbai Railway will also serve as a convenient route from northern Guizhou to the northern Beibu Gulf region of Guangxi, accelerating the construction of the Western Land-Sea New Channel and promoting the coordinated development of the regional economy and society, which is of great significance.