SLURRY PRESSURE BALANCE MACHINE
Advanced Tunneling for Water-Rich and Highly Permeable Ground
The Slurry TBM developed by Sunward Machine is the optimal solution for tunneling projects in water-bearing soft ground, sand, and gravel. Instead of relying on excavated soil, this machine utilizes a pressurized bentonite slurry medium to counterbalance the high soil and water pressure at the tunnel face. This innovative design ensures superior settlement control and prevents water inrush, making it essential for complex deep-water and metropolitan underground construction.
Principle of Operation (SPB)
- 01
Face Stabilization (Slurry)
Maintains pressure of bentonite slurry in the excavation chamber, precisely balancing the surrounding high water pressure and ground stress. - 02
Muck Mixing & Circulation
Excavated soil is mixed with the slurry and continuously transported out via the slurry circulation system (pipelines), enabling uninterrupted advance. - 03
Air Cushion Control
Advanced models use an air cushion behind the bulkhead to regulate pressure with superior accuracy (often within ±0.1 bar), independent of slurry flow.
Key Advantages (Slurry TBM)
Superior Settlement Control
Achieves near-zero ground settlement required for sensitive urban tunneling and crossing beneath critical structures.
High Permeability Adaptation
Ideal for highly permeable sandy ground and gravel where EPB methods would fail to maintain face stability.
Ideal Applications
- ✓Metro and Rail Tunnels Crossing Rivers/Seas
- ✓Sewage and Drainage Tunnels in Coastal Areas
- ✓High Water Pressure Tunneling Projects
Technical Excellence
Sunward Machine Slurry TBM design integrates proprietary Air Cushion technology for independent, high-precision pressure regulation, minimizing manual intervention.
Cutterhead Tools: Specialized Clay/Sand/Gravel Cutters for rapid change and reduced wear.
Slurry Management: Optimized pipe velocity control to prevent clogging and ensure flow stability.
Interested in Slurry Shield Solutions?
Contact Sunward Machine today for customized TBM selection and project consulting.
