TERRATEC TBM S81B celebrated its first tunnel breakthrough at Otteri Station for the 116.1 km Chennai Metro Rail Phase-II Corridor 3 project in India.
TERRATEC, a leading provider of tunnel boring machines (TBMs), celebrated a significant milestone on the prestigious Chennai Metro Rail project in India with the breakthrough of the 6.61m diameter Earth Pressure Balance Tunnel Boring Machine (EPBM) named “Kolli.” The breakthrough event, held at the end of August, was attended by representatives from the project owner, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL), and the contractor, Tata Projects Ltd.
TERRATEC TBM S81B “Kolli,” along with six other TBMs, will play a pivotal role in the construction of approximately 9 km of twin tunnels (totalling 18 km) for Corridor-3’s underground section, extending from Venugopal Nagar Station to Kelly’s Station. The TBM was launched from Chennai Metro Line-3’s Ayanavaram Station South Shaft in July 2023 and achieved its breakthrough after 13 months of continuous operation, excavating 903m of up-line towards Otteri Station.
This project marks a significant step forward for the Chennai Metro Rail network, as the underground section will connect vital areas of the city and provide a fast and efficient transportation solution. TERRATEC has supplied five of the seven TBMs required for this critical package, demonstrating their commitment to delivering exceptional tunnelling solutions.
In addition to “Kolli,” other TERRATEC TBMs have also achieved breakthroughs on the project. TBM S96 achieved its breakthrough in August 2023 at Madhavaran High Road, while TBM S98 accomplished its breakthroughs in June 2023 and June 2024, at Venugopal Nagar Station (of Line-5) and Otteri Station respectively. TBM S99 also celebrated its breakthrough in September 2023 at Venugopal Nagar Station.
TERRATEC’s TBMs are crucial to the timely and efficient completion of this vital project, which is set to revolutionize transportation in Chennai.
The Chennai Metro Project Phase 2 – Corridor 3, Package – TU01 encompasses a complex range of construction tasks, including diaphragm walls and the creation of entry and exit structures for Madhavaram Milk Colony Station, Murari Hospital Station, Ayanavaram Station, and Purasaiwakkam High Road Station. Additionally, the project involves the establishment of launching and retrieval shafts at these stations. The project also faces the challenge of tunnelling beneath historical structures in densely populated areas.
TERRATEC’s TBMs are equipped with versatile mixed-ground dome-style cutterheads that effectively handle various geological conditions, including sand, silt, clay, and weathered rock. The TBMs progress with the installation of 1,400mm wide and 275mm thick universal reinforced concrete lining rings, comprising five segments and a key, ensuring stability and structural integrity throughout the tunnelling process.
To ensure optimal machine performance and successful project completion, TERRATEC’s highly experienced Field Service staff provide constant on-site support. This dedication to after-sales assistance guarantees high-quality service throughout the project lifecycle.
Chennai, a city grappling with rapid population growth and escalating traffic congestion, urgently needed a modern and efficient public transportation system. To address this pressing need, the Tamil Nadu government launched the ambitious Chennai Metro Rail Project, aiming to provide residents with a convenient, affordable, and reliable means of transport. This major undertaking is scheduled for completion within a demanding four-year timeframe.
TERRATEC, a leading provider of tunnel boring machines (TBMs), has a proven track record of delivering successful projects across India, including Phase III of the Delhi Metro, Lucknow Metro, Ahmadabad Metro, Kanpur Metro, Surat Metro, Pune Metro, and Mumbai Metro. TERRATEC’s commitment to providing tailor-made, robust TBM designs, coupled with prompt on-site assistance, readily available spare parts, and highly-skilled specialist support throughout the tunnelling process, has been instrumental in their consistent success. This expertise is now being applied to the Chennai Metro Rail Project, ensuring a seamless and efficient construction process.
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