Rockboring

Rockboring is a specialized excavation technique used to create underground openings through hard rock formations. It typically involves the use of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), a large, mechanical device that excavates rock by rotating a cutting head equipped with cutting tools. The material removed, known as muck, is then transported away from the face of the excavation.

The primary advantage of rockboring is its ability to excavate tunnels with a high degree of precision and efficiency, especially in stable rock conditions. This method can achieve a smooth tunnel profile, often eliminating the need for extensive secondary lining. Rockboring is employed in various infrastructure projects, including transportation tunnels, water conveyance tunnels, and mining shafts. The success of rockboring depends heavily on the geological conditions of the rock mass, including its strength, abrasiveness, and the presence of faults or water. Machine selection, cutterhead design, and operational parameters are all critical factors in optimizing the boring process.