The shield tunneling section of the Jinan Huanggang Road Yellow River Tunnel in Jinan, Shandong province was completed on Aug 17.

The project, recognized as the world's largest-diameter underwater shield tunnel, marks a major milestone in China's tunnel construction industry upon its completion.

The tunnel spans approximately 5.75 kilometers, including a 3.3-km shield tunneling section with an outer diameter of 16.8 meters. It features a single-bore and double-deck design, making it China's first tunnel of this kind under the Yellow River.

The tunnel has an outer diameter of 16.8 meters. The upper deck carries south-to-north traffic, while the lower deck carries north-to-south traffic, with a total of six lanes and a design speed of 60 kilometers per hour.

The tunneling breakthrough was achieved using the Shanhe tunnel boring machine (TBM), which boasts a maximum excavation diameter of 17.5 meters. Equipped with advanced and smart equipment, the project team enabled full-process monitoring, alerts and intelligent decision-making.

Overcoming technological challenges, the team achieved a record-breaking daily excavation of 18 meters and a monthly advance of 426 meters for the 17-meter-diameter TBM.

These advancements in intelligent, mechanized and green technologies will enhance China's large-diameter shield tunneling capabilities and expertise, significantly advancing the field.

The tunnel aims to boost development along the Yellow River, enhance economic cooperation and exchanges between its two banks, and reinforce Jinan's leading role as the provincial capital.

The shield tunneling section of the Jinan Huanggang Road Yellow River Tunnel in Jinan, Shandong province is completed on Aug 17. [Photo/Iqilu News]