The first machine components have arrived for the tunnel boring machines (TBMs) set for deployment on the Suburban Connect project.
Herrenknecht, the manufacturer of the TBMs, had its founder and Chairman Dr Martin Herrenknecht visit sites in Melbourne as a guest of the infrastructure contractor ACCIONA.
Dr Herrenknecht toured the Clarinda site to see construction of the launch facility and learn about upcoming works that will prepare the project for its first flying launch later this year.
His visit marked an important milestone as the first two of four Herrenknecht TBMs successfully completed factory acceptance testing in China before being deconstructed and shipped to Australia.
During his tour, Dr Herrenknecht inspected the newly arrived cutterhead for the first Suburban Connect TBM and discussed the specialist systems that will support continuous excavation across the project’s twin tunnel drives.
When complete the tunnels will reportedly be the longest in Victoria.
The Suburban Rail Loop East tunnelling program will involve excavation of more than 16 kilometres of tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley.
Dr Herrenknecht’s visit is considered a key step in preparing the sites for mechanical assembly and commissioning later in the year.
According to ACCIONA it also reinforced the long running relationship between Herrenknecht and the Australian tunnelling sector, as well as the global expertise supporting the build.
“The visit strengthens industry partnerships as ACCIONA prepares for the next major phase of tunnelling activity, contributing to the delivery of essential infrastructure for Victoria’s growing communities,“ the company said.