Excavating Differently Shaped Cross Sections

Until now, the technological development of shield machines has been limited to innovations such as increasing the diameter and automatic assembly of tunnel segments. However, tunnels nowadays require an ideal minimum cross section that is suited to their purpose, rather than just a simple circular cross section.
Reducing the tunnel cross section is advantageous because it not only reduces the excavation volume, but also ensures that the tunnel is isolated from underground obstacles, such as sewage pipes and piles.
The APORO Cutter (All Potential Rotary Cutter) technique has been developed as a groundbreaking technology that makes it possible to excavate the cross section best suited to the relevant tunnel's requirements.

APORO Cutter (7.44 m [H] x 10.64 m [W])