EARTH PRESSURE BALANCE TBM
Efficient Tunneling Solutions for Soft & Cohesive Ground Conditions
For soft soil and clay-rich formations, the Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) Shield Machine developed by Sunward Machine provides the optimal tunneling solution. Unlike traditional methods, EPB technology uses the excavated soil itself as a plastic support medium—turning it into a paste-like material that balances earth pressure at the tunnel face. This innovative design ensures safe excavation with minimal surface settlement (≤30mm in urban areas) and enables continuous, high-efficiency tunneling, making it the first choice for urban underground projects.
Principle of Operation
- 01
Face Stabilization
Maintains pressure of excavated soil in balance with surrounding ground and groundwater, preventing tunnel collapse. - 02
Soil Excavation & Mixing
Rotating cutterhead loosens soil, which enters the excavation chamber and mixes into paste-like consistency, often requiring soil conditioning (foam/bentonite). - 03
Pressure Transmission
Pressure bulkhead sends thrust from main jacks to conditioned soil, ensuring stable advance when chamber pressure matches face pressure.
Key Advantages (EPB TBM)
High Efficiency & Advance Rate
Maintains high advance rate (8-15m/day) in cohesive clay soils and reduces project duration.
Geological Adaptability
Suitable for mixed soft-hard formations through active soil conditioning and custom cutterheads.
Typical Applications
- ✓Urban Metro Tunnels and Utility Tunnels
- ✓Road/Railway Tunnels in Soft Ground
- ✓Projects requiring strict Settlement Control
Technical Excellence
Sunward Machine EPB Shield integrates advanced design and reliable intelligent control systems for optimal performance in complex geology.
Control System: Real-time pressure monitoring (up to ±0.5kPa accuracy).
Cutterhead: Wear-resistant alloy steel for long service life.
Interested in EPB Shield Solutions?
Contact Sunward Machine today for customized TBM selection and project consulting.
