MFB Geotech has proven expertise in executing complex tunneling projects across India, often in extremely difficult ground conditions. We are among the nation’s few contractors to have successfully deployed the innovative New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) on rail tunnels.
Our diverse tunneling capabilities include:
For constructing small-diameter utility tunnels, microtunneling is an ideal trenchless solution. The specialized remotely-operated microtunnel boring machines (MTBMs) that we use are basically miniature tunnel boring machines (TBMs), ranging from 0.6m to 1.5m diameter.
From a surface control room, operators receive continuous feedback on the MTBM’s location, orientation, and functions via computer consoles and video cameras. This allows them to safely guide the machine’s progression underground with precision.
The New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) revolutionized conventional tunneling by leveraging the surrounding rock mass itself as a stabilizing force. Developed in the late 1950s, NATM integrates extensive geologic monitoring during excavation to optimize support systems based on actual ground convergences and conditions observed.
Rather than utilizing a rigid tunnel support approach, NATM’s “design-as-you-monitor” philosophy enables customized stabilization by adjusting shotcrete, steel arches, anchors, and more to match the changing tunnel environment cost-effectively.
For tunneling through extremely hard rock formations where conventional excavation is impossible, MFB Geotech has specialized expertise in controlled drill and blast techniques. Pioneering this conventional yet powerful method before modern tunnel boring machines existed, we can still deploy it judiciously on projects today.
Factors like overall tunnel length, ground variability risks, construction schedule demands, and required tunnel shape dimensions all influence whether drill & blast or TBM tunneling is more suitable.
