TBM Service Pipe Support Design for the Channel Tunnel Rail Link
Universal Fabrications was asked to engineer a design solution to hold the service pipes on the tunnel boring machine (TBM) for the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. With over 45 years’ experience manufacturing complex metal fabrications for rail, tunnelling and defence, we combined design and manufacture to help win the contract for our customer.
The Challenge
A TBM carries a large number of service pipes that must be securely held as the machine advances, in a confined and demanding environment. The support system had to fit the tunnel’s curved profile, carry the loads involved, and be practical to install. The client needed to be confident it would work before committing to the contract.
Universal Fabrications’ Role
Our engineers designed new brackets and supporting steelwork for the service pipes. To prove the concept, we manufactured a full-scale mock quarter pipe section of the tunnel and fitted it with the newly designed brackets and steelwork, all at our Nuneaton facility. The mock-up was presented in Paris where it was signed off for production.
Why It Mattered
Showing the solution physically, rather than on paper alone, gave the client confidence in the design, and the contract was won. It demonstrates how our design and fabrication teams work together to de-risk projects before production. It’s the same approach we bring to our rail and tunnelling work, including supply to London Underground: getting the engineering right early so production runs smoothly.
Have a rail or tunnelling fabrication project? Call 02476 370272 or email email@universalfabrications.com.
Speak to a Manufacturing Specialist today. Call 02476 370 272 or send us an email.
