Descripción
Course program
Introduction
Module 1. General overview on mechanized excavation projects and research. History of mechanized tunnelling, major breakthroughs, challenges, and current knowledge gaps. Explanation and selection of the final project of the course.
Module 2. Types of machines and its technical details: functionality, parts, and interaction with different types of ground. Process of machine selection for a project, including main aspects to tackle and cost estimation. Exercise module 2.
Module 3. Calculation of performance, penetration and advance of excavation. Aspects of rock excavation, with Grippers, Single and Double Shield, including ground treatment and tools for machine advance. Exercise module 3.
Module 4. Soft ground excavation, main differences between EPB machine and Slurry Shields. Face pressure calculation. Exercise module 4.
Module 5. EPB excavation and ground interaction: conditioning and flow. Estimation of clogging, laboratory tests and mitigation measures. Abrasivity and changes of excavation tools. Exercise module 5.
Module 6. Data management of tunnel excavation. Project logistics, intervention, and muck management. Reuse of machines: refurbishment versus remanufacturing. Exercise module 6.
Bonus. Open class for discussions and project presentation.
Evaluation exercises, including a final course project.
Certificate
Students who complete the course will receive a Diploma certifying that they have completed it, while students who pass the evaluation will receive a Diploma certifying that they have successfully completed the course. The Diplomas will be sent in pdf format by e-mail.
