The Miniaturization of Diaphragm Wall Technique â€“ the CUBE System-Technical Paper Upload

Technical Paper Upload

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The CUBE system is a miniaturized diaphragm-wall trench cutter designed for urban and other confined-space projects where conventional equipment cannot operate. Growing demand for underground infrastructure, combined with limited land, existing structures and environmental concerns, is driving the need for compact, low-impact construction solutions.<br /><br />The system fits the components of a diaphragm-wall cutter into four high-cube containers. Its cutter head and pumping unit are transported separately, then assembled on site after a 1.5 m pre-excavation. It can construct panels up to 2.4 m long and 1 m wide, using the same basic cutting process as standard trench cutters. The machine moves along rails using hydraulic cylinders and clamping devices rather than tracks.<br /><br />Working in tunnels or similarly restricted spaces also requires tailored arrangements for slurry treatment, spoil removal, reinforcement and concrete delivery. Tests evaluated these processes, including construction of seven panels: five primary and two secondary. One primary panel reached 40 m depth; the others were 15 m deep. The trials confirmed the system’s functionality. Prefabricated reinforcement cages assembled with couplers proved the most practical option, and concrete was supplied by pump.<br /><br />By enabling diaphragm walls to be built from tunnels or other confined locations, the CUBE system may make projects possible where access, surface space or existing infrastructure rule out conventional methods. Its electric drive can also reduce emissions, while its compact, containerized design simplifies transport and limits impacts above ground.

Keywords

CUBE system

diaphragm wall

trench cutter

confined space construction

miniaturized equipment

containerized design

urban infrastructure

slurry treatment

reinforcement cages

electric drive