Tunnel boring machine Fact Sheet
What is a TBM? A tunnel boring machine TBM , is a machine used to excavate tunnels through a variety of soil and rock strata. It can be designed to bore through almost anything from hard rock to sand. It uses a rotating cutting head to excavate circular tunnels.
Who is making our TBM? Herrenknecht, a German-based company is manufacturing her. Herrenknecht also made Jeffie, which was used by City Rail Link last year to excavate a stormwater main.
Need more information?
Why does she need a name?
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Naming the TBM prior to beginning work is traditionally done for good luck for the project ahead.
The Link Alliance will design, construct and deliver the CRL’s twin rail tunnels, two new underground stations and a new Mt Eden station building. The Link Alliance includes seven companies with a wealth of experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects in New Zealand and overseas.
Why is she a “she”? Naming a TBM with a female name dates to the 1500s when miners and anyone working with explosives such as armourers and military engineers looked to Saint Barbara for protection. Saint Barbara is the patron saint of miners and artillery-people, in fact any profession dealing with fire. This includes her protection to tunnellers because of the use of explosives.
The companies in the Link Alliance are: Vinci Construction Grands Projet S.A.S, Soletanche Bachy International NZ, Downer New Zealand Ltd, Tonkin & Taylor, AECOM New Zealand Ltd, WSP, City Rail Link Ltd.
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