The first mixed-face EPB machine to work in Hong Kong has started tunnelling on part of the US$6.5bn WestRail project planned by the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC).
Named Mu Lan after an ancient Chinese warrior princess, NFM‘s 8.6m diameter TBM is building the Tsing Tsuen tunnels, part of a US$246.7m design+construct contract awarded by KCRC to Dragages et Travaux Publics of France and local firm Zen Pacific Civil Contractors for the Kwai Tsing tunnels.
The TBM was commissioned by Hong Kong’s treasury secretary, Denise Yue Chung-yee, in a ceremony on March 31.
KCRC chairman Yeung Kai-yin said: “This tunnel boring machine is the largest used in Hong Kong. Because of the mixed ground conditions, conventional tunnel boring machines cannot handle the job. That is why we have specified a tunnelling machine capable of excavating through both soft ground as well as hard rock.”
He added: “The machine will advance at a rate of about 11m a day. Drilling of the twin bore tunnel will take about 14 months to complete.”
Dragages spokeswoman Jane Field said that Mu Lan was chosen as a result of a competition involving staff from the contractors and KCRC.
She said: “Mu Lan was a princess during the Sung dynasty who dressed as a man and went into battle because her father was too ill. Mu Lan is a symbol of bravery, courage and strength.”
