Segment Erector for Tunnel Boring Machines

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Segment Erector

Definition

The Segment Erector is a critical subsystem of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) located in the rear section of the machine. Its primary function is to handle the precast concrete segments delivered from the backup system, precisely position them according to the tunnel alignment, and assemble them into a complete ring to form the permanent structural lining of the tunnel. It operates in the confined space behind the TBM's main shield, ensuring the structural integrity and watertightness of the tunnel as excavation progresses. The erector typically consists of a rotating arm or boom equipped with a vacuum pad or mechanical gripper. It lifts a segment from the segment feeder, rotates and translates it to the designated installation position within the tail shield of the TBM. Using hydraulic or electric actuators, it presses the segment against the previously installed ring and adjacent segments. The process is repeated segment by segment until a complete ring is formed, after which the TBM thrusts forward using the new ring as a reaction point. The erector is designed to handle segments weighing between 1 and 15 tonnes, with a rated lifting capacity of 50 to 120 kN. It provides rotation torque of 100 to 300 kN·m at speeds up to 2 rpm, and achieves positioning accuracy of ±5 mm. It operates within a segment diameter range of 3000 to 15000 mm, and features six degrees of freedom for full positioning flexibility. The hydraulic system operates at pressures of 25 to 35 MPa, and the power supply is 380 to 690 V AC per IEC 60038. The erector is built from high-strength steel, alloy steel, and hardened wear plates, with a material grade of Q345B per GB/T 1591. It is designed for operating temperatures from -20°C to 50°C and has an ingress protection rating of IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529. The total weight ranges from 20 to 80 tonnes, and its footprint varies from 5×3×3 to 10×5×5 meters. These values are reference ranges; verify model-specific specifications with the manufacturer.

Working Principle

The erector operates by receiving a precast concrete segment from the segment feeder. A rotating arm or boom, equipped with a vacuum pad or mechanical gripper, lifts the segment and rotates it to the correct orientation. It then translates the segment to the installation position within the tail shield. Hydraulic or electric actuators press the segment against the previously installed ring and adjacent segments, ensuring precise alignment. This process is repeated for each segment until a complete ring is formed. The TBM then uses the new ring as a thrust reaction point to advance. The erector's control system coordinates the movements to achieve the required positioning accuracy.

Common Materials

High-strength steel, Alloy steel, Hardened wear plates

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Rated Lifting Capacity	50–120 kN	Must exceed weight of heaviest segment plus safety factor.
Rotation Torque	100–300 kN·m	Required to position segments accurately against ground pressure.
Rotation Speed	0–2 rpm	Low speed for precise positioning; high speed reduces cycle time.
Positioning Accuracy	±5 mm	Ensures proper segment alignment and ring build quality.
Segment Diameter Range	3000–15000 mm	Must match TBM boring diameter.
Segment Weight Range	1–15 t	Heavier segments require higher capacity and robust structure.
Degrees of Freedom	6	Typically 6 DOF for full positioning flexibility.
Operating Pressure	25–35 MPa	Hydraulic system pressure for actuators.
Power Supply	380–690 V AC	Voltage depends on site power grid.IEC 60038
Operating Temperature	-20–50 °C	Outside this range, hydraulic oil viscosity changes.
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	Protects against dust and water jets in tunnel environment.IEC 60529
Material Grade	Q345B	High-strength structural steel for main frame.GB/T 1591
Weight	20–80 t	Affects TBM balance and transport logistics.
Footprint (L×W×H)	5×3×3–10×5×5 m	Must fit within TBM shield space.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Erector Arm/Boom
The main structural member that provides reach and rotation for segment handling.

Material: High-strength steel
Gripper Head (Vacuum Pad/Mechanical Claw)
The end-effector that attaches to and secures the concrete segment for lifting and manipulation.

Material: Steel, Polyurethane, Rubber
Rotation Drive
Provides the torque for rotating the erector arm, typically a hydraulic motor or servo motor.

Material: Steel, Alloy
Translation Actuators
Linear actuators (hydraulic cylinders or ball screws) that provide precise in/out and side-to-side movement for final segment positioning.

Material: Steel, Chrome-plated rod
Control System
The electronic/hydraulic control unit that manages the movement sequence, positioning, and safety interlocks of the erector.

Material: Electronic components, Enclosure steel

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Segment Erector.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Tunnel Boring Machine

View system integration details

Shield Tunneling Machine

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Segment Erector

1 company lists this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Handan China Railway Bridge Machinery Co. Ltd.

Hangzhou, Zhejiang, CN

Also makes: Construction Equipment, Expansion Joints, Straddle Carrier and 2 more

Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a segment erector?

The segment erector lifts, positions, and assembles precast concrete segments to form the tunnel lining. It operates within the TBM's tail shield, ensuring precise ring assembly.

What are typical lifting capacity and segment weight ranges?

The rated lifting capacity is typically 50–120 kN, and the segment weight range is 1–15 tonnes. These values are reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model.

How does the erector achieve positioning accuracy?

It uses a rotating arm with a vacuum pad or gripper, and hydraulic or electric actuators to press segments into place. The system provides positioning accuracy of ±5 mm, with six degrees of freedom for flexibility.

What standards apply to the segment erector?

Relevant standards include IEC 60038 for power supply, IEC 60529 for ingress protection, and GB/T 1591 for material grade. These are reference standards; verify compliance with the manufacturer.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Atmospheric to 6 bar (tunnel face pressure dependent)
other spec:	Segment weight capacity: 5-25 tons typical, positioning accuracy: ±2 mm, cycle time: 3-8 minutes per segment
temperature:	0°C to 40°C (operational ambient)

Segment Erector

Product Specifications

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

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Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

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