Abstract:

Shield tunneling is a major construction method to cross underneath seas and rivers. The development of this mechanized tunneling technique is primarily focusing on large tunnel crosssections, high ground water pressure and long boring distance. The progress in shield tunneling technique is presented in this paper by discussing the typical shieldbored tunnels built all over the world, including the Channel Tunnel, Tokyo Bay Subsea Tunnel, Elbe Tunnel: 4th Tube, Westerschelde Tunnel and Chongming Tunnel.