Tunnel Engineering?

Tunnels are underground structures that are used for transport. The benefits,
characteristics, disadvantages, and tunnelling techniques in construction are covered.
Tunnel engineering is one of the most intriguing areas of engineering. It is a complex field
and difficult throughout its entire course, although intriguing.
Tunnels are underground passages utilized for transportation purposes. They allow the
transportation of freights and passengers or are used to transport utilities such as gas, water,
or sewage or gas, for instance. The constructions and operations are completed underground
without impacting the surface, known as tunnelling.
The purpose of tunnel Alignment
The purposes of tunnel alignment include:
1. To improve the reliability and quality of the tunnel service.
2. To lessen the effect of surface transit operations in high-risk areas.
3. To cut down on the number of transit trips.
The choice of tunnel alignment is based on:
1. The topography of the region
2. Points of entry and exit to the zone
3. Restraints on alignment
4. Conditions of the environment
Alignment, Gradient and Alignment Tunnel
A comprehensive tunnel survey using precise measurements is conducted to determine the
alignment of a new tunnel. If the alignment setting isn’t done correctly, the two tunnel’s
ends won’t meet.
As soon as the construction begins, the centerline is drawn on the ground using high
precision to ensure that it provides the proper length for the tunnel. Following this, a precise
survey is carried out to ensure that the centerline is in the correct horizontal alignment of the
tunnel and that various tunnel levels are transferred into the underground locations.
The most important things to keep in mind when deciding on the direction and slope
of the tunnel include:
1. The tunnel has to be built with a minimum gradient as per the standards and guidelines.
2. The tunnel’s alignment must be straight as far as possible to ensure that the shortest and
most cost-effective route is found.
3. Always ensure that you have proper ventilation and lighting.
4. The side drains of the tunnel should have, at the very least, a gradient of 1 in 500 to
ensure efficient drainage. The gradient is set starting from the centre and moving towards
the end, which is particularly important for longer tunnels.
Classification of Tunnels Based On Alignment
Based on the alignment of the tunnel, Tunnels can be classified as:
1. Off-spur tunnels
2. Slope tunnels
3. Spiral tunnels
4. Base tunnels or saddle tunnels
Tunnels with shorter lengths to get around small obstacles are referred to as off-spur
tunnels. If tunnels are aligned to the natural slope of valleys, they are called base or saddle
tunnels. Slope tunnels are built on steep hills to ensure safety and efficiency during
operation.
Tunnels built in the form of loops that run along the insides of mountain ranges can be
classified by their spiral shape. On the other hand, saddle tunnels, also known as base
tunnels, are built-in valleys narrow on natural slopes. This way of alignment extends its
length to keep away steep slopes.
The Surface Alignment Method and Metrics
Tunnels are aligned directly or in an inclined fashion. Ensure accuracy in the
alignment and level is accomplished by using vertical shafts. Measurement of alignment
between surfaces and measurements is done in the course of tunnel surveying which is
known as set-out of the tunnel, which requires taking the steps below:
1. Surface survey with the fine centerline or tunnel alignment on the surface. In this
technique, an initial survey is carried out through precise traversing with a theodolite to
connect the two sides of the tunnel plan. Then, by using an existing plan and a specific
survey, the final alignment is determined.
2. Moving alignments from the surface into underground shafts involves transferring the
centerline, or alignment from the surface, into underground shafts.
3. Set out underground and final levelling. Levelling the surface beneath is carried out as
usual. Again, the nearest benchmarks are utilized to transfer levels beneath.
Benefits of Tunneling
Tunnelling methods have certain advantages when compared to other methods.
They are described in the following paragraphs:
1. Tunnelling is more cost-effective in the sense that it is less expensive than an open cut
trenching when the depth goes beyond the limit
2. The life of the surface or activities that take place on the ground, like transportation, is
not affected by tunnelling is carried out.
3. The technique ensures fast construction while consuming less power.
4. Reduces Noise Pollution
5. These techniques are free of the risks of icebergs or snow in high altitude areas.
6. Interference with air and surface is not permitted in tunnels.
7. Tunnels with easy gradients can help reduce the cost of transporting. In the case of
transporting public utilities, the tunnelling method offers a significant advantage to bridges.
8. The danger of an open cut to the structure next to it that must be closed can be solved
using tunnelling.
9. Tunneling provides greater security during aerial war and bombing situations.
Definition of Tunnel
A tunnel is a horizontal or nearly horizontal underground passageway constructed
through soil or rock, designed to allow the movement of people, goods, water, or services.
Tunnels are used in various infrastructure projects, such as transportation (railways and
highways), utilities (water and sewer systems), and mining.
Importance of Tunnels
Tunnels play a critical role in modern infrastructure and urban development due to their
numerous benefits:
1. Transportation Connectivity
a) Facilitating Movement: Tunnels allow the uninterrupted movement of vehicles,
trains, or pedestrians across natural barriers such as mountains, rivers, or urban
obstacles.
b) Reducing Travel Time: They provide shorter and direct routes, significantly
reducing travel distances and time.
2. Urban Development
a) Efficient Land Use: Tunnels optimize land use by accommodating transportation
and utilities underground, freeing surface space for other developments.
b) Minimizing Congestion: Underground transit systems in urban areas alleviate traffic
congestion on surface roads.
3. Environmental Protection
a) Preservation of Natural Landscapes: Tunnels reduce the environmental impact of
construction by preserving forests, rivers, and hills.
b) Noise and Air Pollution Control: Underground transport systems reduce surface
noise and air pollution, contributing to cleaner urban environments.
4. Water Management
a) Irrigation and Drainage: Water tunnels transport water for irrigation, drinking, and
industrial purposes, or manage drainage and flood control.
b) Hydropower Projects: Tunnels are integral to hydropower systems, channeling water
to turbines.
5. Economic and Strategic Benefits
 a) Boosting Trade: By connecting regions or countries, tunnels enhance trade and
economic integration.
b) Military and Strategic Use: Tunnels provide concealed routes for strategic
operations in defense and military contexts.
6. Accessibility to Resources
a) Mining Operations: Tunnels enable access to minerals, ores, and fossil fuels deep
beneath the earth's surface.
b) Underground Storage: Tunnels are used for storing goods, waste, and even energy
(e.g., pumped hydro storage systems).
7. Disaster Resilience
a) Safe Passageways: In emergencies like earthquakes or floods, tunnels can act as
protected evacuation routes.
b) Protection from Natural Hazards: Underground infrastructure is less exposed to
surface weather extremes.