A major construction milestone has been reached on the 7 km Sarıyer–Kilyos Tunnel Motorway Project in Turkey, delivered by IC İÇTAŞ İnşaat for Karayolları Genel Müdürlüğü in the presence of the Turkish Minister of Transport, with the successful breakthrough of the 13.65 m diameter Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) — one of the largest diameter TBMs currently operating in Europe.

The TBM completed approximately 5 km of excavation over a 13-month period, advancing through weak and fractured rock formations and requiring careful coordination of excavation, support, and logistics under challenging ground conditions, with horizontal curves radius less than 200m.

STM Industriale SpA, Italy, with the supply of the entire conveyor system, contributed to the project by supporting TBM-related operations through close collaboration with the contractor and project partners. The milestone highlights the importance of reliable industrial systems and technical coordination in large-diameter TBM projects.

Following the completion of the left tube, approximately 2.8 km of NATM excavation remains on the right tube, with final completion of the 14 km twin-tube motorway tunnel targeted by the end of 2026.

About STM Industriale SpA

STM Industriale SpA is an Italian engineering and industrial company active in the design, supply, and technical support of CONVEYOR SYSTEMS and equipment for tunnelling and underground infrastructure projects.

The company provides TBM Conveyors systems, material handling solutions, and customized industrial equipment, supporting contractors worldwide across all phases of tunnel construction." For further information please click on the following link https://www.stm.group/en. 09/26.