Why Tunnel Boring Machine Manufacturers Need RFID Solutions
Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) are critical to modern construction engineering infrastructure projects, but operators face significant challenges:
- Component Wear and Misalignment: Missing or worn cutterheads delay projects and increase costs.
- Unplanned Downtime: Undetected hydraulic or electrical failures can disrupt operations and cost more than $10,000 per hour.
- Safety Risks: Manual inspections in tight, high-risk tunnel environments put worker safety at risk.
- Compliance Gaps: Incomplete equipment usage logs that do not meet OSHA or ISO 50001 Стандарты.
RFID technology solutions address these challenges by:
1.Component tracking and maintenance optimization
Problem: Manual records fail to track cutterheads, hydraulic seals, and conveyor belts, leading to expensive replacement costs.
RFID solution:
- UHF RFID micro tags are embedded in key components.
- RFID readers on tunnel boring machines (TBMs) scan tags to monitor usage time and trigger maintenance alerts.
2.Predictive maintenance of hydraulic systems
Problem: Hydraulic leaks or pump failures can cause unplanned downtime, delaying project schedules.
RFID solution:
- Install RFID tags with sensors to monitor pressure and temperature.
- Integrate data with PLC systems (Например. Siemens S7-1500) to predict failures 2-3 weeks in advance.
3.Security and access control
Problem: Unauthorized access to restricted areas of a tunnel can lead to accidents in an operating tunnel.
RFID solution:
- Issuing ATEX-certified RFID badges to workers and engineers.
- Integrate with TBM control systems to lock the machine in case of unauthorized access attempts.
4.Compliance and audit efficiency
Problem: Paper-based maintenance logs delay ISO 45001 audits and could expose you to penalties.
Решения RFID:
- Store maintenance records, operator certifications, and inspection dates on high-memory RFID tags.
- Automatically sync data to a cloud platform, such as Trimble Connect, for instant audit report generation.
Implementation: How RFID-TBM integration works
Tag placement:
Key components: Impinj Monza R6 tags embedded in cutterheads, grippers, and thrust cylinders.
Safety devices: Use RFID tags for access control.
Data flow:
- RFID fixed readers on the TBM scan tags during operation and transmit data to an edge gateway.
- Analytical platforms, such as Siemens MindSphere, generate maintenance schedules and safety alerts.
Key results:
- 30-50% reduction in unplanned downtime.
- 20% faster audits with automated compliance logs.
- No security incidents due to unauthorized access.
Contact us for custom tagging and RFID solutions for tunnel boring machines (TBMs)
