Microtunneling


 

The Microtunneling Research Institute (MRI) is a focused portion of the Earth Mechanics Institute (EMI) at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM). 

 


Current testing, design, and engineering programs for microtunneling:

 

  Physical Property Testing

  Borehole Evaluation/Analysis

  Rock/Soil Mass Classifications

  Full Scale Cutter and Cutterhead Laboratory Testing for preferred cutter selection, optimum cutting geometry and machine specifications (thrust and power)

  Selection of Machine Type (slurry versus auger system)

  Cutterhead Design and Optimization

  Performance Predictions for penetration rates, system utilization, and advance rates

  Cutter Cost Evaluations

  Machine and Ancillary Equipment Availability

 


Microtunneling Projects:

 

Testing and Performance Evaluation of a 32-inch Cutterhead using Mini Disc Cutters

  


For more information, contact:    
 
Dr. Levent Ozdemir
Colorado School of Mines
Department of Mining Engineering
Golden, CO 80401

Phone: (303) 273-3419
Fax: (303) 273-3719
e-mail: lozdemir@mines.edu