By Lynda Myer
In an event with attendance of representatives from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand and contractor ITD-NWR MRT Joint Venture, in order to advancing construction of the Bangkok Metro Purple Line (C3), TERRATEC delivered another new 6.39m diameter Earth Pressure Balance Tunnel Boring Machine (EPBM). Earlier in December 2023, the Factory Acceptance Test was performed for the first 6.39m diameter EPBM.
Connecting Phan Fa Station to Memorial Bridge Station through two metro stations, the 3.12km tunnel’s construction will be up to these two TERRATEC EPBM TBMs. Both new Earth Pressure Balance Tunnel Boring Machines (EPBMs) with 6.39m diameter is due to be deployed for the construction of the Bangkok Metro Purple Line (C3).
Considering that the historic area of the old Bangkok capital features landmarks such as the Grand Place and ancient temples, this project encounters numerous challenges, particularly in maneuvering the TBMs. As a key aspect, construction of the interchange station at Sam Yod is another advantage of this project that links the Purple Line with the existing Blue Line MRT, whereas the Purple Line will cleverly pass beneath the operational Blue Line tunnels. Additionally, due to that the TBMs are slated to undertake an impressive task of tunneling beneath the Chao Phraya River for a 150m stretch, the building process requires meticulous planning and management to minimize disruptions to the surrounding infrastructure and environment.
In order to overcoming geological conditions along the tunnel routes that will include challenging sand layers such as soft clay, stiff clay, dense clayey & silty sand, the TBM’s soft ground cutterhead is fitted with a flat spoke type with copy cutters.
During the TBM advancement and the construction process, traditionally reinforced, 275mm thick by 1400m wide, Universal reinforced concrete segments (5 + 1) will be installed, while muck removal, segment transport, and the supply of consumables will be facilitated by rail-bound equipment utilizing battery locomotives.
As a top-tier system in the industry TERRATEC TBMs are equipped with the Enzan laser guidance system, which is a cutting-edge technology and allows for remote monitoring of the entire tunneling system, ensuring precise control over TBM operations. The Enzan system guarantees accurate tunnel navigation, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of tunneling projects. TERRATEC’s highly skilled Field Service team will offer support throughout the tunneling operation to ensure optimal performance and successful project completion.
With 23.63km length, the Bangkok Metro Purple Line is serving the northwestern area of Bangkok from Tao Poon to Klong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi Province, while it is the city’s fifth rapid transit line. The date of commencing construction of the southern extension, that includes a 14.3km underground section and a 9.3km elevated section, was August 2022 and involves a total of 17 stations. Also the scheduled date to start the service is 2027.
Having made its first TBM sale in Thailand over a decade ago for the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) Blue Line Extension Project, TERRATEC has established a strong regional presence in the country. With a reputation for customized and durable TBM designs, prompt on-site support, a readily available stock of TBM spare parts, and specialized TBM assistance throughout the tunneling process, TERRATEC has emerged as the premier TBM supplier in Thailand.
