The 4.03m diameter TBM CREC 1456 will excavate a 9.59km tunnel, with no immediate access and a maximum overburden of 790m.
The project poses three major tunnelling challenges: the tunnel length; the small cross-section; and complex strata.
To mitigate risks such as large fault zones and mud and water bursts during construction, the CREG TBM features an advanced geological prediction system capable of real-time detection and warning of water and adverse geological conditions ahead of the cutterhead. The machine is also equipped with a system that enables independent and smart tunnelling.
Once completed, the tunnel will connect the Eping Reservoir with the Zhuxi River basin to establish a water network aimed at co-ordinating water resources, social economy and the environment, and address the issue of water scarcity in the Zhuxi River basin.
