Use Case: Slurry TBM Project

Data-Driven Tunneling

ELBE CROSSING SUEDLINK (ELB-X)

As part of the SuedLink project, a 5.2 km tunnel is being constructed beneath the Elbe River between Wewelsfleth and Wischhafen. The goal is to safely route six high-voltage direct current cables under the river—an essential component of Germany’s energy transition grid expansion. The tunnel is being built using a slurry tunnel boring machine (TBM) with segmental lining. The TBM, named “ELSA,” is designed to handle varying ground conditions such as clay, marl, and sand-gravel mixtures.

The project is being executed by a joint venture between PORR and Wayss & Freytag. Construction supervision is handled by a team from BabEng and WTM Engineers. In addition to geological challenges, simultaneous construction activities on both riverbanks demand high levels of coordination and data management. The project is already considered a key reference for underground infrastructure along major power corridors.

Challenges
In the area known as the Lauenburg Layers, there is an elevated risk of cutterhead clogging over extended sections. Such clogging can lead to increased wear and, in the worst case, halt tunneling operations—disrupting the construction schedule.

Additionally, with Elb-X, state-of-the-art technology meets maximum adaptability: ELSA not only drives forward, but also installs segments in the soft ground at the same time – an innovative process that is being realized for the first time in combination with TPC.
This was the perfect opportunity for a purposeful expansion of the software – customised precisely to the requirements of the project. After all, this is precisely our strength: we react flexibly to new challenges and develop solutions that are tailored to match the needs on site – always with the sucess of the project in mind.