Delivering Fluid Sealing Solutions Since 1972

Tunnel Boring Machine Seals

Tailored Seals for Mining Industry – Rapid Seals Service

A Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is a massive, complex machine used to mechanically excavate tunnels with circular cross-section. They have the ability to bore through any material from hard rock to soft soil without the need for drilling and blasting.

Using a Tunnel Boring Machine offers several advantages, particularly in complex construction environments. Because the surrounding groundwork remains largely undisturbed during operation, TBMs are an ideal choice for high-density urban areas where minimising surface impact is important. The machine’s integrated shield provides continuous support to the tunnel walls throughout the excavation process, significantly reducing the risk of ground subsidence or structural collapse. This method ultimately results in a high-quality finish, as the TBM produces a consistently smooth tunnel wall.

Pushing Cylinder Seals

Pushing cylinders in TBM’s primary job is to generate the incredible forward force required to press the rotating cutterhead into the earth or the rock. The cylinders are arranged in a circle around the machine and maintain a consistent pressure against the soil. Seals in pushing cylinders are the critical components that convert fluid pressure into mechanical force. Without them, the pressurised oil or air would simply flow around the internal parts rather than pushing them forward.

Sealing Solutions

The correct use of seals are critical in mining equipment. An incorrect or low-performing seal may cause dangerous and costly damage. As TBM’s operate in underground conditions (dirt, soil, water) the seals must be highly durable and capable of withstanding extreme pressure while excluding abrasive contaminants that could cause catastrophic mechanical failure. As the TBM moves, it leaves a small gap between its metal ‘tail’ and the new tunnel walls. The seals used in these applications must be capable of preventing groundwater and liquid grout from flooding the machine, causing the ground above to sink or collapse. Seals must help regulate the keep the constant pressure so the tunnel face doesn’t cave in. If the seals fail, the pressure drop which may lead to sinkholes forming on the surfaces above.

Materials

  • Polyurethane (PU) – Excellent abrasion and tear resistance, good elasticity, and long service life
  • HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) – Able to withstand much higher temperatures and is incredibly resistant to tearing and abrasion.
  • FKM (Viton™) – Used in the most extreme heat environments. It is highly resistant to the chemicals found in hydraulic fluids and greases
  • PTFE (Teflon™) – It has very low friction, allowing the massive metal parts to slide smoothly without sticking.

Popular products include:

Rapid Seals Service offers a wide range of sealing solutions specifically designed for TBM systems. A critical requirement for these applications is to meet the demands of the environment whilst providing a high-quality service,

Rapid Seals Service offers high-performance sealing solutions tailored for the Mining industry. Engineered for durability and precision, these seals are ideal for harsh mining environments, offering excellent resistance to abrasion and chemical exposure. Our experienced and knowledgeable engineers can manufacture to your requirements, whether they are standard or specialised

To find out more about how our Rapid Seals Service can help you call: +44(0)121 429 8011 or email sales@barnwell.co.uk

Download our Rapid Seals Service brochure for information on profile ranges and material specifications.

E & OE. M Barnwell Services endeavour to make sure that all content is correct. The information has been gathered from manufacturing partners.

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