Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) — an acronym for “Tunnel Boring Machines” and more technically known as “full section mechanical cutters” —, are ingenious machines that have revolutionized the world of excavation and construction of tunnels. A TBM not only allows to carry out the necessary drilling but also, at the same time, to remove the muck and spoil and erect the lining of the tunnels. This multi-tasking capability is at the core of modern tunnelling projects.
TBM cutters: at the forefront of the excavation
At the heart of every TBM is its cutting head—a rotating wheel that mounts the appropriate excavation tools, including scrapers, rippers, and most importantly, TBM cutters such as disc cutters or cutting rings. These components are the crucial elements that attack any type of rock and must deliver the most demanding performances. In fact, these tools exemplify innovative TBM cutter technology in action.
The TBM cutters are required to be extremely robust in order to achieve maximum penetration rates and disruptive capacity. Equally important, they must maintain consistent performance over time, ensuring that each phase of excavation is executed at optimal efficiency. This need for durability and reliability is what drives continuous innovation in TBM cutter design.
RingX ® by AB TUNNELLING: the best result of research in the sector
Recognizing the critical role played by TBM cutters, AB Tunnelling conducted extensive research into the most common cutting tools on the market. The result of this in-depth study is RingX®—a product born from years of research, advanced production processes, and a refined selection of the highest quality materials. RingX® stands as an example of advanced TBM disc cutter performance, setting a new benchmark for durability and efficiency in tunnelling.
The fundamental quality of steel
One of the primary factors behind the superior performance of RingX® is the quality of the steel used. For RingX®, a very high-quality raw material was selected, one that is extremely balanced in its alloying components. This “perfect cocktail” provides excellent results in terms of hardenability, hardness, tempering, and resistance to wear, impact, and compression. Additionally, a particular production process was chosen to further enhance the quality of the steel. This attention to material quality ensures that every TBM cutter manufactured meets the rigorous demands of modern excavation projects.
An ideal geometry for Maximum Efficiency
The design and geometry of RingX® have been optimized to maintain uniform workload distribution, even as the cutting ring wears over time. This intelligent design extends the product’s lifecycle and ensures that its performance remains consistent. By providing even wear distribution, RingX® exemplifies advanced TBM disc cutter performance while reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement, critical factors in minimizing overall operational downtime.
Precision Heat Treatment: Ensuring Consistent Quality
Heat treatment plays a very important role in obtaining the quality of RingX ®. The operation is carried out with small, vacuum furnaces capable of reaching extremely high temperatures and with particular rapid cooling and tempering techniques which must not cause deformations or breakages of the rings. All this ensures that the hardness of the cutting rings remains homogeneous in all production batches.
A Unique and Exceptional Product for Demanding Tunnelling Projects
The extensive research and development invested in RingX® have led to the creation of a truly unique and exceptional TBM cutter. RingX® is capable of:
- Tackling any geological situation with remarkable ease,
- Achieving high excavation performance and significantly reducing production times,
- Lowering maintenance and replacement costs,
- Minimizing machine downtime and, as a consequence, reducing overall operational expenses.
This next-generation tunnel boring machine cutter not only brings innovative design to the table but also integrates proven performance that meets the most challenging requirements in the tunnelling industry.
Embracing Innovative TBM Cutter Technology
The success of any tunneling project depends on the reliability and efficiency of the equipment. With RingX ®, AB Tunnelling has redefined the standards by introducing a product that combines innovative TBM cutting technology with advanced TBM disk cutting performance. Every aspect of RingX®, from the high-quality steel and optimized geometry to the precision heat treatment process, is designed to excel in demanding environments and deliver unmatched operational results.
For tunneling industry professionals, choosing RingX® means gaining a competitive advantage through increased productivity, lower costs and improved on-site safety. Discover how this cutting-edge solution is transforming tunneling and setting new performance benchmarks.
Visit our dedicated page to learn more about RingX® and how it is revolutionizing the market, or contact us directly for more information.