Robbins TBM launched at Laotian hydroIn February 2010, contractor CMC di Ravenna launched the first TBM to work in Laos. The 7.6 m-diameter Robbins single shield TBM is excavating a 5.5 km-long headrace tunnel for the Theun Hinboun expansion project, which will double generating capacity to 440 MW, and provide power to neighbouring Thailand. The station will utilize water from the Nam Theun river, which has been diverted for dam building. The client is Theun Hinboun Power Company Ltd, a JV of the Laos Government, Norwegian contractor Statkraft, and GMS Power of Thailand. The TBM is currently achieving 20 m/day. For more on the project, click la/11 and here. Visit www.robbinstbm.com. 11/10. The Robbins Single Shield TBM was launched in February, 2010 on a Laotian hydroelectric project