Representatives of MCGM and contractor Soma Enterprise witnessed the FAT remotely. The TBM is now ready to be shipped to site
This machine is a 3.2m-diameter Open TBM with a modular design that allows it to be launched and potentially retrieved via shafts (or disassembled inside the tunnel). The cutterhead is equipped with 18 heavy-duty back-loading disc cutters, while the VFD-controlled electric motors enable the cutterhead to rotate at over 10rpm with optimum torque. The TBM is designed to be disassembled with all components being removed through the completed tunnel. The cutterhead has a flange that allows it to be removed in two pieces.
To allow safe tunnelling through all sections of the alignment, the machine includes a fixed probe-drilling unit, two rock-bolting drills, shotcrete pump and a steel arch erector. The first machine delivered last year is already working on the Amar Mahal II Tunnel Project and is said to be progressing smoothly.
The AMT-I tunnel is one of a number of projects being undertaken by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) to augment and improve its water distribution system, to meet increased demand and ensure reliable supply.
The project comprises two TBM drives totalling 9,683m in length between three shafts. A major challenge is to assemble the TBM at a depth of 110m with space inside the tail tunnel and the jobsite being extremely tight. The first drive runs from Hedgewar Udyan to Pratiksha Nagar; the second runs from Pratiksha Nagar to Parel at an average depth of 80 to 90m.
TBM operation will be assisted by Terratec’s field service staff, providing continuous after-sales support to ensure optimum performance and successful project completion.
