Structural and geotechnical solutions for tunnels

Build tunnels that last, with VSL expertise

VSL delivers specialized construction, post-tensioning, ground treatment, and shaft solutions for tunnel infrastructure in road, rail, and airport projects. Our capabilities cover all tunnel phases, from portal preparation and ground reinforcement to segment installation and large-scale box jacking, especially where precision, safety, and minimal disruption are critical.

Build tunnels that last, with VSL expertise

VSL delivers specialized construction, post-tensioning, ground treatment, and shaft solutions for tunnel infrastructure in road, rail, and airport projects. Our capabilities cover all tunnel phases, from portal preparation and ground reinforcement to segment installation and large-scale box jacking, especially where precision, safety, and minimal disruption are critical.

  • 70 years
    of tunnel engineering excellence

What we do: VSL’s tunnel construction capabilities

VSL provides specialized services covering the full spectrum of tunnel construction and underground works, from temporary construction phases to permanent structural solutions.

Box Jacking

Box jacking enables the construction of tunnels beneath existing roads or railways with minimal surface disruption. VSL designs and executes controlled jacking operations using hydraulic systems and real-time monitoring to ensure precise alignment and safe load transfer during excavation and advancement.
Box Jacking – Tunnels

Cut-and-Cover

For shallow tunnels, VSL delivers structural and geotechnical solutions for cut-and-cover construction, including temporary support, retaining systems, and permanent structural works. These solutions allow efficient construction in urban environments while maintaining traffic and surface activities.
Cut-and-Cover – Tunnels

Deep Shafts

Deep shafts provide access for tunneling, ventilation, and service installations. VSL designs and constructs vertical shafts using adapted excavation, support, and lining techniques, ensuring stability, groundwater control, and safe working conditions at depth.
Deep Shafts – Tunnels

Ground Anchors

Ground anchors are used to stabilize excavation support systems, shaft walls, and underground retaining structures. VSL designs and installs temporary and permanent post-tensioned anchors with appropriate corrosion protection and load testing to ensure reliable long-term performance.
Ground Anchors – Tunnels

Ground Improvement

VSL applies ground improvement techniques to enhance soil strength, control settlement, and manage groundwater conditions prior to tunneling or excavation. Solutions are selected based on geotechnical conditions and construction constraints to reduce risks and improve constructability.
Ground Improvement – Tunnels

Heavy lifting

Heavy lifting operations are often required for tunnel elements such as precast segments, box sections, or mechanical equipment. VSL provides engineered lifting solutions using synchronized jacking systems and bespoke frames for safe handling in confined underground environments.
Heavy lifting – Tunnels

Horizontal Directional Coring

Horizontal directional coring allows accurate investigation and verification of ground conditions ahead of tunneling works. VSL’s HDC techniques provide valuable geotechnical data with minimal disturbance, supporting risk mitigation and design validation.
Horizontal Directional Coring – Tunnels

Horizontal Directional Drilling

HDD enables the installation of utilities, ducts, or structural elements beneath existing infrastructure without open excavation. VSL delivers controlled drilling solutions adapted to complex ground conditions and limited access zones.
Horizontal Directional Drilling – Tunnels

Underground Structures

VSL designs and constructs permanent underground structures, including galleries, technical rooms, cross-passages, and ancillary tunnel elements. These solutions integrate structural performance, durability, and maintenance requirements over the asset’s lifecycle.
Underground Structures – Tunnels

Why choose VSL for tunnel infrastructure?

VSL combines integrated engineering, specialized construction methods, and global tunneling experience to deliver safe, efficient, and reliable underground infrastructure projects.

from ground treatment to structural installation

including under live rail or airport infrastructure

for diaphragm walls, jet grouting, and box jacking

through integrated capabilities across geotechnical and structural disciplines

across metro systems, highways, and high-speed rail

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FAQs about tunnel infrastructure

Here are some of the questions we’re asked most often about tunnel infrastructure. If you have more, don’t hesitate to contact us!

Yes. Our team specializes in low-settlement methods such as box jacking and compensation grouting, proven under active rail and road corridors.

Yes. VSL designs and builds diaphragm wall shafts, including all excavation, support, and temporary works components.

We use synchronized push/pull jacks, real-time monitoring, and low-friction sliding interfaces to maintain control throughout the process.

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Planning a tunnel project or need geotechnical support for infrastructure works?

Contact VSL to discuss high-performance solutions tailored to your site and delivery requirements.