TerryP Guangzhou Metro Line 13 Shield Tunnel Cooling Project
Release Date:
2026-04-30
Tripp (Guangzhou) Thermal Equipment has successfully deployed a customized tunnel‑cooling system for the Phase II of Guangzhou Metro Line 13, providing a stable and reliable high‑temperature mitigation solution for the construction operations of CSSC Heavy Industry’s 6‑meter‑diameter tunnel boring machine.
I. Project Background and Pain Points
During tunnel boring machine (TBM) operations in subway construction, issues such as inadequate heat dissipation from the TBM’s main unit, heat accumulation in the ground strata, and poor ventilation can easily cause tunnel temperatures to rise above 40°C. Combined with high humidity, this creates a stifling working environment that not only jeopardizes the health and safety of construction personnel but also compromises equipment stability, thereby affecting construction efficiency and schedule. In Phase II of Guangzhou Metro Line 13, the 6-meter-class TBM operated by CSSC Heavy Industry encountered significant challenges posed by high-temperature conditions, underscoring the urgent need for an efficient, energy‑saving tunnel cooling solution.
II. Core Project Parameters and Solutions
Tripp (Guangzhou) Heating and Cooling Equipment has customized a system for the project. High-Efficiency Tunnel Cooling System , the core specifications and technical parameters are as follows:
| Project | Parameter Details |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration capacity of refrigeration equipment | 320kW |
| Equipment input power | 67 kW (high energy efficiency ratio, energy-saving and consumption-reducing) |
| Installation method | The host unit and air cooler are integrated and mounted on Trailer No. 4, without occupying additional tunnel construction space. |
| Cooling effect | The optimal outlet air temperature of the air cooler is 11.4°C; the measured temperature at the duct outlet of trailer No. 3 is 15°C; and the outlet air temperature at the tunnel’s farthest front end is stably maintained at 22°C. |
III. Project Implementation and On-Site Outcomes
The project employs an integrated design featuring a host unit and an air cooler, with the refrigeration system mounted on the tunnel boring machine’s No. 4 trailer. Cold air is conveyed via ductwork to the tunnel face, creating a gradient cooling effect that effectively addresses heat buildup within the tunnel.
- Experimental verification of temperature measurements : On-site measurements using a professional temperature and humidity meter show that the air outlet at the tunnel’s far end maintains a stable temperature of 22°C, while the working-face temperature has dropped significantly, resulting in a marked improvement in thermal comfort.
- High-efficiency operation : With a cooling capacity of 320 kW, it requires only 67 kW of input power. Compared with conventional methods such as ice‑based cooling and high‑power fans, it consumes less energy, delivers more stable cooling, and produces no secondary pollution.
- Adapted for tunnel boring machine construction scenarios : The system is integrated with the shield machine’s trailing carriage, ensuring no disruption to tunneling, segment assembly, or other operations, and is compatible with 6-meter-class TBM construction workflows, thereby maintaining continuous construction.
IV. Project Value and Advantages
- Ensuring construction safety and efficiency : Maintain tunnel working-face temperatures within a safe and comfortable range to prevent heat‑related heatstroke, reduced concentration, and other issues; thereby reducing the risk of safety incidents and improving construction efficiency.
- Energy conservation and consumption reduction, lowering costs : Compared with conventional cooling methods, the high-efficiency refrigeration system significantly reduces energy consumption, enabling substantial long-term operational cost savings while eliminating additional expenses associated with ice transportation and storage.
- Highly adaptable, stable, and reliable. : Specifically designed for shield tunneling operations, it is compatible with 6-meter-class tunnel boring machines and tunnel construction environments. The system operates reliably and can meet the cooling requirements of long-distance tunneling.
- Environmentally friendly with no secondary pollution. It employs a closed-loop refrigeration system, generating no wastewater or exhaust emissions, and thus better aligns with green construction standards compared to methods such as ice‑based cooling.
V. Conclusion
The successful implementation of Phase II of Guangzhou Metro Line 13 has demonstrated the high efficiency and reliability of Terip’s tunnel cooling system in shield tunneling operations. Moving forward, Terip will continue to refine its tunnel‑cooling technology, providing tailored refrigeration solutions for an expanding range of metro and tunnel construction projects, thereby supporting the safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable advancement of underground infrastructure.
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