A preliminary study: Influence of sub-surface ground condition on the tunnel boring machine performance

Abstract

Tunnelling through various ground condition affects the performance of Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). Previous researches have conducted studies to explain on this relationship. However, a more localised influence of Malaysian Kenny Hill Formation subsurface condition towards TBM drive are yet to be carried out. This study will assess this relationship at areas nearby Museum Station during the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (KVMRT) Line 1 with a length span of 540m. After the data collection from TBM and borehole report, data analysis was carried out namely using cutter head, thrust cylinder and subsurface profiling. These data were plotted based on the chainage and tunnel ring number. It is observed that subsurface profile at Ring 9 and Ring 11 required a higher thrust force due to its cohesive soil condition and inclusion of sandstone rock. However, Ring 10 is vice versa as there were more non-recovered soil samples at the specified area. The reduction of thrust force eventually increases the speed of TBM penetration. Thus, a clear relationship showing that subsurface condition highly influences the TBM drive.