Our Experience Working on the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Project
The Melbourne Metro Tunnel project involves the construction of twin nine-kilometer rail tunnels and five new underground stations, significantly enhancing the capacity and efficiency of Melbourne’s rail network.
Design Process
Our design process began with a comprehensive assessment of the project’s needs. The primary objectives were:
Precision: The equipment needed to achieve high precision in tunneling to ensure alignment and stability of the tunnels.
Safety: Given the urban setting, ensuring the safety of workers and the public was paramount.
Efficiency: The machinery had to operate with high efficiency to adhere to the tight project timelines and minimise disruptions.
Equipment Used
Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs): We designed advanced TBMs capable of excavating through Melbourne’s varied geological conditions, featuring state-of-the-art navigation and monitoring systems.
Segment Erectors: These machines were developed to place precast concrete segments accurately and efficiently, forming the tunnel lining.
Slurry Treatment Plants: To manage the excavation material, we designed slurry treatment plants that separated soil from the slurry used in the TBMs, ensuring environmental compliance.
Manufacturing Mining Equipment
The construction phase involved sophisticated engineering and collaboration. We sourced the best materials and employed cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to ensure our equipment met the highest standards of quality and reliability. Each piece underwent extensive testing before being deployed to the project site.
Material Selection: High-strength steel and other durable materials were used to withstand the stresses of tunneling operations.
Assembly and Testing: Our assembly teams operated in top-tier facilities, ensuring each unit was rigorously tested under conditions that simulated the urban tunneling environment.
