Tunnel boring machines are a common tool in deep tunnel construction. I am curious if they have ever been mass produced in specific types. What are the possible problems in (a possible) mass production of such machines?
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One of the main problem with tunnel boring machines is they are required for a specific tunneling job: a certain sewer tunnel, a one off underground rail tunnel, etc. Once the job has been completed the tunnel boring machine may no longer be required. In a particular location there may not a need to continually excavate tunnels. Tunnel boring machines aren't easily mobile. Logistics are required to move them from site to site.
Tunnel boring machines are made to construct a tunnel of a specific diameter. They may also be constructed to deal with specific types of ground conditions: clay soils, sand, highly stressed rock, etc. A machine built to perform for a specific set of conditions may not be applicable to other ground conditions.
For a given set of tunneling conditions, tunnel boring machines may not be the most appropriate device to use. In near surface tunnels in sandy soils, a cut and cover approach may be more appropriate technically and economically.
Tunnel boring machine manufacturers don't want to have a yard of unsold machines waiting to be purchased. It's better for them financially to make machines as required and to the specifications of the client.
Fred
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Mass produced? Depends what you mean by “mass”
For the channel tunnel they made 5, 5 of such a specific machine is perhaps “mass”...
Solar Mike
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