JR Central Unveils Gigantic 14-Meter Diameter Tunnel Boring Machine

Jan 17, 2024 | News On Japan

TOKYO - JR Central has opened up to the press the construction site of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen, which is slated to begin operations after 2027, showcasing a gigantic tunnel boring machine in use.

A reporter stated, "This tunnel, located about 90 meters underground, will be extended towards Nagoya using this large boring machine."

The site revealed to the media today is located in the Asao Ward of Kawasaki City, where the Linear Chuo Shinkansen tunnel is being constructed.

The equipment used is a massive tunnel boring machine, called a 'Shield Machine,' with a diameter of approximately 14 meters. It is capable of safely constructing tunnels even under urban areas dense with buildings.

This section of the tunnel is scheduled to start major excavation around September this year. JR Central aims to open the Shinagawa to Nagoya station section of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen after 2027.

Source: TBS

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