Advances and Prospects of Tunnel Boring Machine Technology in China
Since the 1950s,Chinese enterprises have commenced research on tunnel boring machine technology,tra-versing a journey from independent exploration and technological import to indigenous innovation.Today,China has attained the capability for technological innovation in designing and manufacturing various types of tunnel boring machines.Chinese enterprises have successfully developed an array of new equipment,including mixed-mode boring machines,irregular cross-section boring machines,connection passage boring machines,vertical and inclined shaft boring machines,etc.The overall technology level of China's tunnel boring machines has reached the international advanced standard,leading the industry in the research of new rock-breaking technologies and the development of new models.The future development of tunnel boring machine technology in China can be explored from the per-spective of"three levels and one enhancement,"which includes improving the technological level under the existing framework of boring machine technology through improving the function and performance of the equipment;breaking through in rock-breaking technology and innovating underground support structures to promote the development of new tunnel boring machine;and advancing tunnel boring technology progress in response to evolving tunnel con-cepts.Concurrently,the enhancement of intelligent tunnel construction is necessary to boost construction efficiency and safety.
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