In modern engineering construction, tunnel excavation is a complex and arduous task. One of the key equipment to achieve this task is the tunnel boring machine. Tunnel boring machine, referred to as TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine), is an advanced construction machine that uses a rotary cutter to excavate, crush the surrounding rock in the hole and excavate, thereby forming the entire tunnel section.

　　Working principle of tunnel boring machine

　　The tunnel boring machine cuts and crushes the rock and soil in front through the rotary cutter installed at the front end. The cut debris is transported out of the tunnel through the conveying system, and the support system at the rear is responsible for supporting and stabilizing the newly excavated tunnel section. The entire excavation process is carried out continuously. The tunnel boring machine not only has to complete the excavation task, but also needs to carry out lining work at the same time to ensure the safety and stability of the tunnel.

　　Characteristics of tunnel boring machine

　　1. Fast and efficient: Compared with traditional blasting and manual excavation methods, tunnel boring machines can significantly increase the excavation speed. It has a high degree of automation and can work continuously and uninterruptedly, greatly shortening the tunnel construction period.

　　2. High safety: Traditional tunnel excavation methods are often accompanied by a lot of dust and explosion hazards, while the use of tunnel boring machines can effectively reduce these dangerous factors. The closed operating environment of the tunnel boring machine can reduce the time workers are exposed to dangerous environments and improve the overall construction safety.

　　3. Economic benefits: Although the initial investment of the tunnel boring machine is high, its high efficiency and low maintenance cost give it obvious economic advantages in long-term operation. Shorter construction period and less labor demand further reduce the total project cost.

　　4. High quality: The tunnel boring machine can accurately control the shape and size of the tunnel section to ensure the construction quality of the tunnel. Its high-precision construction method can meet the high requirements of modern engineering for tunnel quality.

　　Application prospects

　　Tunnel boring machines play an increasingly important role in the construction of transportation infrastructure. Whether it is a subway tunnel, a highway tunnel or a railway tunnel, the tunnel boring machine has demonstrated its excellent performance and advantages. With the continuous advancement of technology, the scope of application and excavation capacity of the tunnel boring machine are also constantly improving. In the future, it will play an irreplaceable role in more engineering projects.

　　As a new and advanced tunnel construction machinery, the tunnel boring machine has become an indispensable and important equipment in modern tunnel construction due to its characteristics of speed, safety, economy and high quality.