Hard rock tunneling without explosives
News: China has developed an innovative technique based on drill rigs with diamond bits to excavate tunnels without the need for explosives.
Excavating tunnels in high-strength rock formations has historically been a challenge due to the requirement of using explosives or high-power tunnel boring machines (TBMs). However, the use of selective cutting tools with diamond crowns represents a significant advancement in urban excavations or in areas with high environmental sensitivity.
Diamond bits allow for a controlled and precise extraction of rock cylinders, minimizing vibrations, reducing impact on adjacent structures, and improving excavation face stability. This technique is particularly useful in terrains with heterogeneous layers, where the use of explosives could lead to undesired fracturing and potential geotechnical failures.
Furthermore, this method can be combined with advanced geomechanical models and real-time monitoring, optimizing safety during excavation and reducing initial support costs.