Mechanized Shaft Sinking With VSM: Safe and Resource-Saving Construction of Shafts and Foundations in Urban Surroundings-PPT Presentation

PPT Presentation

Pdf Summary

The Vertical Shaft Sinking Machine (VSM) is a mechanized system for constructing shafts in a wide range of ground conditions, including loose soils, hard rock, highly permeable formations and sites below groundwater pressure of up to 25 bar. It can excavate rock with strengths up to 140 MPa, accommodate shaft diameters from 4.5 to 18 metres, and be designed for depths up to 250 metres.<br /><br />A flexible cutting boom excavates the full shaft cross-section step by step. Excavation and shaft-lining construction can proceed simultaneously, while a slurry circuit transports spoil to a surface separation plant. Controlled lowering equipment manages shaft installation, and automated systems support safe operation. Other equipment includes recovery and energy winches, bentonite lubrication, and navigation systems that monitor verticality, rotation and horizontal position.<br /><br />Lining options include watertight precast concrete segments and in-situ concrete casting. The choice depends on factors such as construction time, cost, workforce, strength and tunnel connections. Jobsite equipment can be adapted to confined urban sites with limited space, access, or installation height.<br /><br />Applications include metro ventilation and emergency shafts, sewage and tunnelling shafts, storage shafts, and deep underground automated parking. Reference projects include shafts in Hawaii and Singapore, as well as projects in China and Europe. Overall, VSM is presented as a controlled, adaptable method intended to make shaft construction faster, safer and more practical in challenging conditions.

Keywords

Vertical Shaft Sinking Machine

VSM

shaft construction

mechanized excavation

slurry circuit

groundwater pressure

rock excavation

precast concrete lining

urban infrastructure

tunnelling shafts