What is a dual-mode TBM? A dual-mode TBM is a highly efficient equipment designed for tunnel projects with large geological differences and long construction distances. This type of TBM can switch modes according to changes in hydrogeological conditions during construction, thereby increasing construction speed and reducing construction costs.

　　Dual-mode TBMs have two slag discharge modes or two pressure balance modes. At present, common dual-mode TBMs have the following two combinations:

　　1. Earth pressure and mud water dual-mode TBM: This type of TBM can switch between earth pressure balance and mud water balance modes, and is suitable for geological conditions with large changes in water content.

　　2. Earth pressure and rock dual-mode TBM: This type of TBM can switch between earth pressure balance and rock excavation modes, and is suitable for tunnel projects with alternating soft and hard geology.

　　Technical features of dual-mode TBMs

　　Dual-mode TBMs are a derivative of balanced shield and shield rock TBMs, and have the technical features of these two different types of TBMs. During the construction process, when the geological conditions change significantly, the dual-mode TBM can quickly switch to the appropriate working mode. This flexibility not only ensures the safety of construction, but also improves the overall efficiency of construction.

　　1. Strong adaptability: The dual-mode TBM can cope with various complex geological conditions, whether it is soft soil with high water content or hard rock, it can work effectively.

　　2. High construction efficiency: Through mode switching, the TBM can maintain efficient operation under different geological conditions, reducing the time loss caused by equipment replacement or adjustment.

　　3. Cost saving: Since there is no need to frequently replace equipment or stop work for adjustment, the dual-mode TBM can significantly reduce construction costs in long-distance tunnel construction.

　　Application Cases

　　In some large-scale tunnel projects, the dual-mode TBM has demonstrated its excellent performance. For example, in the construction of mountain tunnels with drastic geological changes, the dual-mode TBM successfully overcame the challenges brought by the alternation of soft and hard geology by flexibly switching between earth pressure mode and rock mode, significantly improving the construction speed and ensuring the quality of the project.

　　With the advancement of science and technology, the technology of dual-mode TBM is also constantly improving. In the future, this equipment will be widely used in tunnel projects with more complex geological conditions, providing more reliable and efficient solutions for engineering construction. Through flexible mode conversion, the dual-mode tunnel boring machine not only improves construction efficiency, but also effectively reduces construction costs, and has broad application prospects.