INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Tail Shield

A structural component of a Tunnel Boring Machine that protects the rear section and supports tunnel lining installation.

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Component Specifications

Definition
The Tail Shield is a cylindrical steel structure located at the rear of a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) that serves multiple critical functions: it provides structural protection for the machine's rear components, maintains tunnel stability during excavation, creates a controlled environment for segment installation, and houses essential systems like grout injection and segment erectors. It typically consists of a shield skin, articulation system, and sealing elements.
Working Principle
The Tail Shield operates by maintaining continuous contact with the excavated tunnel walls through hydraulic or mechanical systems, creating a sealed chamber that prevents ground collapse and water ingress. It moves forward with the TBM while allowing precise installation of precast concrete segments behind it, with grout injection filling annular gaps between segments and ground.
Materials
High-strength steel (typically ASTM A572 Grade 50 or equivalent), wear-resistant steel plates (Hardox 400-500), rubber seals (EPDM or Nitrile), and hydraulic components.
Technical Parameters
  • Length 2-6 meters
  • Weight 10-150 tons
  • Diameter 3-15 meters
  • Thickness 40-100 mm
  • Pressure Rating Up to 10 bar
  • Articulation Range ±1.5 degrees
Standards
ISO 9001, ISO 3834, DIN 18800, EN 1090

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Tail Shield.

TBM tail shield tunnel boring machine component tunnel lining installation shield tunneling rear shield segment erector grout injection tunnel stability Tail Shield Tail Shield in Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Tunnel Boring Machine

A large mechanized excavation system used to bore tunnels through various ground conditions.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Structural fatigue from cyclic loading
  • Seal failure leading to water ingress
  • Misalignment causing segment installation errors
  • Wear from abrasive ground conditions
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Excessive ground pressure or uneven loading
Failure: Structural deformation or cracking
Mitigation: Regular thickness monitoring, proper ground conditioning, and using higher grade steel materials
Trigger: Abrasive soil particles
Failure: Accelerated wear of shield skin and seals
Mitigation: Install wear plates, use wear-resistant materials, and implement proper ground conditioning
Trigger: Hydraulic system malfunction
Failure: Loss of articulation control
Mitigation: Redundant hydraulic circuits, regular fluid analysis, and preventive maintenance schedules

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Diameter tolerance: ±10 mm, Circularity: 0.1% of diameter, Surface flatness: 2 mm/m
Test Method
Ultrasonic thickness testing, pressure testing, dimensional verification using laser scanning, non-destructive testing per EN ISO 17640

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a TBM Tail Shield?

The primary function is to protect the rear of the TBM, maintain tunnel stability during excavation, and provide a controlled environment for installing precast concrete tunnel lining segments.

How does the Tail Shield prevent ground collapse?

It maintains continuous pressure against the tunnel walls and uses sealing systems to create a stable chamber, while grout injection fills voids between segments and ground to prevent settlement.

What maintenance is required for Tail Shields?

Regular inspection of steel structure integrity, seal replacement, hydraulic system maintenance, and wear plate monitoring, typically during scheduled TBM maintenance shifts.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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Table Top Tailpiece (or Cam)