China’s Revolutionary Most Advanced 95-Meters Tunnel Boring Machine in Turkey Turkeyin Istanbul, Turkey, witnessed a significant milestone. The cutterhead of the “CREC No. 1294” earth pressure balance tunnel boring machine (TBM), developed by China Railway Hi-Tech Industry under CRCC, began to rotate, signaling the commencement of excavation work. This event also marked the deployment of the largest TBM exported by China, showcasing the nation’s engineering and technological prowess.
The Sariyer-Kilyos Highway Tunnel, an ambitious infrastructure project, spans approximately 7 kilometers and is designed as a twin-tube, single-lane structure. This construction project employs a combination of traditional drilling and blasting techniques alongside advanced TBM technology. The “CREC No. 1294” TBM will undertake the excavation of an impressive 8.7 kilometers of the tunnel, navigating a maximum depth of 172 meters and accommodating a minimum horizontal curve radius of 190 meters.
95-Meters Tunnel Boring Machine China’s Revolutionary Most Advanced in Turkey
One of the project’s most notable challenges lies in its demanding geological and environmental conditions. The tunnel’s deep burial, high water pressure, and the logistical complexities of machinery installation within confined spaces necessitated the design and deployment of an exceptionally advanced TBM. The “CREC No. 1294” TBM rises to these challenges with a cutterhead diameter of 13.65 meters, a total length of approximately 95 meters, and a weight of around 2,850 tons. This state-of-the-art machine incorporates cutting-edge technologies that enable continuous tunneling, ensuring a construction process that is efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly.
The “CREC No. 1294” TBM boasts several key features designed to address the unique demands of the Sariyer-Kilyos Highway Tunnel. Its massive cutterhead is capable of handling complex geological formations while maintaining stability and minimizing disruptions. Additionally, the machine’s continuous tunneling capabilities streamline the excavation process, reducing project timelines and associated costs. Advanced monitoring systems integrated into the TBM provide real-time data on geological conditions, enabling precise adjustments to the excavation strategy and enhancing overall safety.
Environmental protection has also been a priority in the development of this TBM. The machine’s design includes measures to reduce noise, vibration, and dust emissions, minimizing its impact on the surrounding environment and communities. Furthermore, the TBM’s efficiency in material removal and waste management supports sustainable construction practices, aligning with global trends toward environmentally conscious infrastructure development.
The Sariyer-Kilyos Highway is a critical project for Istanbul, aiming to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion in the region. Once completed, the highway will provide a faster and more direct route linking northern Istanbul communities to the city center, significantly improving accessibility and reducing travel times. This infrastructure development is expected to bolster economic activity, facilitate trade, and improve the quality of life for residents in the area.
The commencement of tunneling with the “CREC No. 1294” TBM represents a collaborative effort between international stakeholders and highlights the growing role of Chinese engineering in global infrastructure projects. The machine’s deployment not only demonstrates the technical capabilities of CRCC and its subsidiaries but also underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in addressing complex engineering challenges.
Beyond its immediate impact on the Sariyer-Kilyos Highway, the “CREC No. 1294” TBM serves as a testament to the advancements in tunnel boring technology and their potential applications in future projects worldwide. The successful implementation of such sophisticated machinery sets a precedent for tackling similar infrastructure challenges in diverse environments, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable tunneling solutions.
The Sariyer-Kilyos Highway Tunnel Project is part of Istanbul’s broader efforts to modernize its transportation network and accommodate the city’s growing population and urban expansion. As one of the key highway projects currently underway, it reflects the city’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports economic growth and improves the daily lives of its residents.
In conclusion, the launch of the “CREC No. 1294” TBM at the Sariyer-Kilyos Highway Tunnel marks a pivotal moment in the project’s timeline and highlights the intersection of advanced engineering, environmental stewardship, and international collaboration. As the TBM carves its way through Istanbul’s challenging terrain, it brings the city one step closer to realizing a modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation solution. The project not only strengthens Istanbul’s infrastructure but also sets a benchmark for future tunneling endeavors around the globe.
