The boring machine is a comprehensive equipment used to mechanically break rocks, remove debris and support tunnel walls. It plays a vital role in modern tunnel engineering and is widely used in the construction of tunnels, mines and underground projects. According to its cutting method on the working surface, boring machines can be divided into full-section boring machines and partial-section boring machines.
Full-section boring machine
A full-section boring machine is a device that can cut the entire tunnel section at one time. This type of tunnel boring machine is usually equipped with a huge circular cutterhead on which many cutting tools are installed. When the tunnel boring machine is started, the cutterhead rotates and advances forward, and the cutting tools can efficiently break the rock or soil in front to form a complete circular tunnel section. The cut chips are transported outside the tunnel via a conveyor belt system, where they are subsequently used to support the tunnel wall. The advantage of this boring machine lies in its efficient continuous operation capability, which can significantly shorten the tunnel construction cycle and reduce labor costs.
Full-section boring machines are commonly used in the construction of subways, railways, and highway tunnels. Because it can operate in various geological conditions, it is especially suitable for construction in soft soil and hard rock formations. Modern full-section boring machines are also equipped with advanced automated control systems and monitoring equipment, which can monitor the construction status in real time to ensure construction safety and project quality.
Partial section boring machine
Some cross-section boring machines use step-by-step cutting to complete tunnel boring tasks. Such boring machines usually have multiple cutting heads, each cutting a different part of the tunnel section. During excavation, the cutting heads work in sequence, gradually breaking up the rock and removing debris. Although the operating efficiency of the partial-section boring machine is slightly lower than that of the full-section boring machine, it is more flexible and is especially suitable for tunnel projects with irregular cross-section shapes or segmented construction.
Partial-section boring machines are widely used in the construction of mine tunnels and some specific underground projects. They are able to adapt to complex geological conditions and can be customized to suit specific engineering needs. In addition, the maintenance and operation of partial-section boring machines are relatively simple, making them suitable for construction environments with limited resources.
As the core equipment of modern tunnel construction, boring machines are promoting the continuous development of underground engineering technology due to their high efficiency and continuous operation. Whether it is a full-section boring machine or a partial-section boring machine, it shows its unique advantages in different construction scenarios and contributes to infrastructure construction around the world.