Fibre optics link tunnellers to outside world
A
Datwyler (UK) product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Aug 9, 2004
Datwyler Cables and Systems is announcing a new fibre optic cable, Optofil ZGGT 1000 TBM, and a specially developed, very compact self-winding system for tunnel boring machines (TBMs).
Datwyler Cables and Systems is announcing a new fibre optic cable, Optofil ZGGT 1000 TBM, and a specially developed, very compact self-winding system for tunnel boring machines (TBMs).
This system facilitates the transmission of control, alarm and signalling data between the tunnelling equipment and external construction site management.
Datwyler's new fibre optic system has recently been employed for the construction of the new Gotthard base tunnel on the longest section, Amsteg (12km).
Optofil ZGGT 1000 TBM is a special cable with a central tube construction for up to 12 optical fibres.
Due to its torsion-relaxing properties and its associated good lying behaviour, it is particularly suitable for continuous self-winding from the TBM.
It provides reliable and non-disruptive transfer of large amounts of data over long distances during the whole construction period.
In the Gotthard base tunnel the Datwyler system is utilised for controlling the fire alarm unit, conveyor belt, air conditioning, ventilation, and temperature.
In addition, it monitors the rock pressure and carries signals from video monitoring, used for surveying the tunnel drive, as well as external visualisation and data backups.
Thanks to its good laying properties, Optofil ZGGT 1000 TBM can also be laid via cable pallets.
It provides non-metallic rodent protection and is water-tight longitudinally.
The materials used for the special cable are halogen-free and do not release corrosive gases in in the presence of a fire.
As space on a TBM is at a premium, Datwyler developed a very compact winding system for the cable that allows for an uncoiling from the tunnel drive synchronously over part-lengths of up to 1650m.
Datwyler's system provides rugged components and high reliability.
The fibre optic connection is capable of functioning when the TBM is operating 24 hours per day and 365 days per year.
Quality controls and on-the-spot measuring ensure a non-disruptive and safe data transmission between the TBM and external control centre.
This system is claimed to substantially ease operation for the site management.
The possibility of controlling and monitoring major sections of the construction site externally via optical fibre saves those responsible a large number of lengthy trips.
The activities at both tunnel drives can be constantly supervised by video cameras.
Visualisation at the control centre enables technicians to react quickly and efficiently should incidents occur.
The machine data can also be viewed and evaluated at any time outside the tunnel.
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