Abstract: A survey is made on the existing shield launching methods, the existing shield stationtransfer methods, the existing shield “drill and blasting” section transfer methods and the existing stepping devices. A study is made on the longdistance shield stepping along smallradius curve, as well as on the shield thrust reaction devices, with Lijia stationPingchang station section and Pingchang stationHuangmaoping station section in Chongqing as an example. A safe and efficient shield stepping method suitable for longdistance smallradius curve section is summarized. In the end, the construction cost is reduced and the shield stepping duration is shortened.

Key words: Metro, shield launching, branch tunnel, stepping