Cast-iron Segment Lining - Standard Dims/Specifications

[RCDLtd]

Hi,

Can anyone point me at some reference info for Cast-iron tunnel lining segments. If there is a "standard" I'm after standard dims, in particular I'm looking for 3500mm ID.

Also, would segments of this size be generally handled manually or are there any mechanical manipulators available?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Backfill]

RCDLtd:
Though not a tunneling expert per se, in thirty years of mine engineering I've never run across anyone using cast iron liners. The most recent references I've noticed are just before the Great War (I did my initial search on 'Cast Iron Tunnel Segments').

On the other hand, lots of steel, stainless steel, etc. linings are out there. Check on the newer municipal and regional constructions in Europe, North America, Asia. 'Tunnel Support' turns up lots of carpal tunnel stuff, so you have to watch that. Mining, tunnelling, engineering societies and universities will have plenty of links (i.e. smenet.org). The vendors and consulting firms in these disciplines as well (i.e. Camber Corp in PA).

If this is for a replacement and you really do need to match CI, try for historical records. Someone may have drawings and someone may have a 'legacy' foundry. Here in the States, I don't think anyone goes for cast iron any more. When the ground is relatively soft, various tunnel boring machines can be used, and often jack or slip-form the steel linings. Alternatively, bolted (i.e. rock bolts) support with or without mesh & screen and w/w-o shotcrete.

Some of the tunnelling machines are nearly exclusive in mechanical handling of the lining, others assist while final bolt-up and/or pump or pour is more manual, though almost nothing these days is exclusively manual. Even in congested workings without dedicated components on a TBM, jacks and hoists can be set up for the heavy items.

If the opening already is there and this is a replacement/repair effort, the jacks and hoists may be more easily handled. 3500 mm diameter isn't too outrageous a size and is in fact small for much modern mining equipment.

Regarding standards, in new materials there certainly may be. If this is coded (i.e. IBC, etc.) work, check with local agencies first, then the contractor/vendor sources. If you have a long length, you may have a chance of specifiying your own diameter, else it is best to go with a common size from local/regional mills or foundries.

Sorry if this response is not timely, I just came across this forum today. Reply with a follow-up query if you need more specific info.

Best of luck. Keep the air moving and the pumps running, the miners will figure out the rest.