The modular RTBM is an tunnel construction equipment innovatively designed by project team of CRBC (HK). Featuring a modular structure and high automation, it has been successfully applied for the tunnel construction underneath the highway on Yuen Long South project. It effectively overcomes construction difficulties such as limited space of launching shafts and difficulties in dismantling and hoisting components, while improving construction safety and space utilisation, and reducing project cost and environmental impact.

The key benefit of using modular RTBM is to solve the bottlenecks of construction with very limited working space, particularly in the following aspects :

A. Resolving Construction Difficulties: It effectively overcomes the constraints of narrow launching shafts and difficult dismantling and hoisting of components, ensuring smooth progress of tunnel construction.

B. Enhancing Safety and Efficiency: Highly automated operations improve construction safety as well as excavation efficiency, keeping the project on schedule.

C. Achieving Cost Effectiveness: It optimises space utilisation and construction procedures, effectively reducing overall construction costs and enhancing productivity.

D. Practicing Eco-friendly Construction: It minimises construction disturbance to the surrounding environment, achieving the goals of safe, efficient, economical and green construction, and providing valuable practical reference for similar tunnel projects in the narrow works area.