Get the most efficient and valuable tool for excavating longer hard rock bores. If you have a project that requires accurate line and grade or if you need to bore a longer drive, then the Robbins Rockhead could be the most successful solution for your project. Since each project is different, each solution will vary. To find out if this system is the best fit for your project, read carefully about the machine itself and all of the options Robbins has available.
The Robbins Rockhead is a powerful mid-sized tunneling machine modeled after larger TBMs that generates torque from a drive unit mounted at the cutterhead thrust bearing assembly. Each Rockhead is custom designed to fit your project’s specifications, and is available in both Single Shield (SBU-RHSS) and Double Shield (SBU-RHDS) models.
Rockheads employ a different excavation method from the Robbins SBU-A, which is dependent on the auger for torque and a standard boring machine for thrust. Double Shield Rockheads are self-propelled using a gripper system, while Single Shield Rockheads must be used with a pipe-jacking system or primary liner erected in the tail shield. Torque is achieved through an in-shield drive motor.
The Robbins Company has the right machine for your job. Let us help you select the right machine from our proven designs.
The diameter range for the Robbins Rockhead between 54 inches (1.35 m) and 78 inches (2.00 m).
For bores that are over 1,000 ft (300 m) in length. The maximum bore length is dependent on ground conditions and other specifications on your project.
The Robbins Rockhead can be used in conjunction with:
There are several methods to consider, and most are dependent on the length of the bore and what equipment you already own.
CUTTERHEAD CAPABLE OF CUTTING HARD ROCKThis robust head cuts the hard rock with single disc cutters. The cutters are located on the cutterhead in a geometric pattern that allows the disc to create a kerf (crush zone). The thrust at these kerfs creates fractures and cracks in the rock face, which ultimately form chips of rock. ARTICULATING FRONT SHIELDThis will allow you to steer the machine and ensure accuracy of line and grade. The forward shield can be articulated in any direction necessary to allow accurate line and grade when used in conjunction with a laser guidance system. MAN-ACCESS TO THE FRONT OF THE MACHINEIn the case of longer bores or difficult ground conditions, it may be necessary to go to the front of the cutterhead. In the case of longer bores or those in hard rock, the cutters will need to be changed. Whether or not they need to be changed is highly dependent on the ground conditions (the harder the rock and the less brittle it is, the more cutter changes will be necessary). In the case of an obstruction, the man access will allow the operator to clear the obstruction and continue boring. |
OPERATOR STATION AND LIGHTINGThe operator station is located underground within the Rockhead shield in order to make fast corrections. This allows for precise line and grade. LASER TARGETSWith the use of a laser and a target, the machine will bore accurate line and grade through shield articulation. HIGH CAPACITY BEARING HOUSING ASSEMBLYOur robust thrust bearing is suitable for longer drives at higher thrust. PATENTED SINGLE DISC CUTTERSOur specialty cutters are the best in the industry. This high quality and value product results in minimal or no cutter changes for drives below 500 ft. If you have a project that requires cutter changes or if you simply want to learn more about Robbins cutters, click here. |
Some projects have special requirements for which the normal Robbins Rockhead package may need modification. Any sized machine can be modified in these ways:
If mixed ground conditions call for special cutter tooling, we offer scrapers, ripper teeth, bullet bits, and backhoe teeth.
Available with either hydraulic or electric motors.
For Single Shield models, pipe jacking and on some projects Auger Boring Machines (ABMs) can be used for thrust. A push ring is available when liner plates or ribs and board are installed. For Double Shield models, a gripper system similar to those found in larger diameter TBMs provides forward thrust.
For starting pits that have limited right of way. It is possible to split the control shield and the forward shield so that the control station is above ground and the gripper shield is in a shorter starting pit.
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