Tunnel Widening Without Stopping the Trains

Tunnel Widening Without Stopping the Trains

German railways are employing an innovative system that allows tunnels to be widened while trains continue running through them. Developed by Herrenknecht, a company renowned for its tunnel boring machines, the Tunnel Enlargement System (TES) is specifically designed to enable railway lines to be electrified without disrupting rail traffic. The system allows trains to continue running on a temporary track while the tunnel is being widened.

How the Tunnel Enlargement System Works

The process begins by dismantling the existing tracks and installing a temporary track in the centre of the tunnel. This track allows trains to continue running while the TES moves forward step by step, excavating and widening the tunnel. The TES acts as a protective enclosure, separating the construction work from live rail traffic to ensure the safety and continuity of train services.

The Structure of TES

The TES is composed of three main parts:

  • The Front: This section provides pre-excavation protection, preventing tunnel collapse and stopping rocks from falling onto the tracks during the widening process.
  • The Middle: This is where the tunnelling equipment is housed. It includes telescopic drill rigs, hydraulic impact hammers, and a shotcrete system on a ring guide. Large retractable working platforms enable workers to safely access the tunnel face and the intrados for precise excavation.
  • The Rear: This section contains the systems that power the TES, such as a hydraulic station, a compressor for compressed air, the electrical system, and storage for materials.

Key Benefits

  • Continuous Rail Operation: The TES ensures that train services can continue uninterrupted throughout the tunnel widening process.
  • Safety and Efficiency: By serving as a protective shield, the TES allows construction workers to safely operate close to live rail tracks without affecting the safety of passengers.
  • Technological Innovation: Herrenknecht’s system offers an innovative solution for modernising rail infrastructure, particularly for electrification, without requiring a halt in services.

The Tunnel Enlargement System is a game-changer for railway construction, making it possible to upgrade infrastructure with minimal disruption. As the demand for electrified rail networks increases, solutions like TES will play a crucial role in ensuring efficient, safe, and continuous rail operations.

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