Vienna expands subway network: sustainable tunnel construction with new machine

Vienna expands subway network: sustainable tunnel construction with new machine

An important subway expansion project is currently being pushed forward in Vienna: the U2xU5 extension. This measure is intended to make the Vienna subway more efficient and environmentally friendly. The tunnel boring machine, the heart of the project, is already in use. It has an impressive length of over 120 meters and weighs 1,300 tons. This massive machine, known as DEBOHRA and manufactured by the manufacturer Herrenknecht, creates a sustainable method for tunnel construction.

The big advantage of this tunnel boring machine is its ability to work continuously through the underground while simultaneously forming the tunnel tube. According to the order, concrete rings - called “tubbings” - are used, which are specially manufactured at MABA Fertigteilindustrie GmbH near Wiener Neustadt. These segments consist of six individual, precisely shaped segments. Over 19,000 such segments are required for the U2 extension, and the construction itself extends over a total length of around four kilometers.

Efficient construction and environmental protection

The use of the tunnel boring machine helps to significantly reduce the burden on the city. U2 project manager Helmut Schweiger explained that construction with the tunnel boring machine can avoid around 20,000 truck trips that would otherwise be necessary to transport the excavation. This significantly reduces the impact on the environment and residents in the city. With each advance, a segment ring is moved after around 1.4 meters, which means that work can be carried out continuously and efficiently.

The entire project is not only a technical challenge, but also an important measure with regard to climate protection and improving the infrastructure in Vienna. The construction of the new station tube between Matzleinsdorfer Platz and other locations such as Reinprechtsdorfer Straße and Pilgramgasse ensures that Vienna remains a modern, well-connected city in the future.

The advance production of the segments began at the end of 2023, ensuring that the flow of materials to the construction site runs smoothly. The six different geometries of the segments are manufactured with the highest precision and under strict control to ensure quality and longevity. This allows the tunnel boring machine to easily overcome any challenge that comes its way.

The subway expansion is not only an important infrastructure project, but also an expression of Vienna's commitment to the environment and sustainability. Wiener Linien relies on the latest technology and innovative approaches to increase the quality of life in the city. Details on this comprehensive project and its impact on traffic flow and urban planning are expected in upcoming reports, allowing citizens to stay informed about how their city is evolving.

For more comprehensive information about the construction project and its progress, those interested can regularly follow the latest news, especially reporting on significant developments affecting the cityscape of Vienna.