Management of Tunnel Construction Projects with TBM: A System Dynamics Approach

In tunneling projects using tunnel boring machines (TBM), there is a great risk of cost overruns and schedule delays, so proper management and planning of these projects can save both budget and time. The longitudinal nature of tunneling projects makes them a dynamic system, so that, the more the machine goes ahead, the longer the distance of material being transported. Consequently trains traveling time will be increased and if the transportation system is not empowered appropriately, the TBM will become idle and the project will be delayed. To address this issue, this article introduces a dynamic simulation model using system dynamics that represents processes involved in a TBM tunneling project. The project processes are analyzed, focusing on efficient and timely material transportation. Based on the model results, resources will be allocated properly and as a consequence project performance will be improved. Finally with an example the developed model is examined.

Keywords:

system dynamics , tunneling , material transportation , TBM