Heavy lifting - Tunnels

Carrying out complex shifting operations with minimum impact

Heavy lifting operations in tunneling and underground infrastructure projects require precise control, high-capacity equipment, and engineered methodologies to handle large structural elements under restricted conditions. From the installation of tunnel segments and precast beams to lowering heavy machinery or shifting TBM components, VSL provides turnkey heavy lifting solutions tailored to the constraints of underground works.

The critical role of Heavy lifting in tunneling

Heavy lifting is essential in tunneling, where confined spaces, heavy components, and strict tolerances demand highly controlled, engineered lifting operations to ensure safe and efficient construction.

Tunnel shafts and underground chambers require lifting systems capable of operating in confined vertical and horizontal spaces.

TBMs, precast segments, and tunnel linings involve weights exceeding hundreds of tons, often requiring synchronized multi-point lifting systems.

Lifting operations in tunnels must meet strict tolerances for alignment and clearance while minimizing risks to surrounding structures and systems.

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VSL’s Heavy Lifting services for tunnels

VSL delivers specialized heavy lifting solutions designed for the unique constraints of tunnel construction, ensuring safe, precise, and controlled handling of massive components in confined underground environments.

Lifting and lowering of tunnel segments

VSL designs and executes lifting solutions for tunnel linings, precast segments, and underground structural elements. These components are often handled in vertical shafts or underground caverns where mobile cranes are not feasible.
Solutions include:
• Custom-built lifting frames
• Temporary support and guidance systems
• Use of strand jacks or hydraulic jacks for incremental lowering

Positioning of TBM components

Tunnel Boring Machines are often assembled or dismantled in underground shafts. VSL provides engineered lifting plans and execution for:
• Lowering TBM shields, cutterheads, or backup gantries
• Precise alignment for jacking pits and launch chambers
• Retrieval and disassembly of TBM components in tight spaces

Hydraulic strand jacking and synchronous lifting

VSL uses strand jacks and synchronous control systems to lift, lower, or slide heavy components safely and with high precision.
Applications include:
• Multi-point lifts for balanced load distribution
• Limited-clearance shaft lowering
• Temporary supports for complex installation sequences

Why Choose VSL for heavy lifting?

  • Specialist in confined-space lifting

    Solutions engineered specifically for vertical shafts and underground structures.

  • Integrated delivery

    Design, equipment, and execution provided in-house, ensuring full control of interface conditions.

  • Global experience

    Heavy lifting systems deployed on metro, water, and road tunnel projects worldwide.

  • Proprietary systems

    VSL’s strand jacking equipment supports synchronized operations and real-time load monitoring.

FAQs about Heavy lifting

These are some of the most common questions we receive. Got another one? Reach out to us!

VSL’s strand jack systems range from 30 to over 500 tons per jack and can be combined in multi-point configurations depending on load and geometry.

Yes. VSL has engineered lifting systems specifically for shafts with vertical access constraints and limited working height.

VSL uses synchronized control systems that monitor displacement and load at each lifting point, ensuring uniform motion and accurate positioning.

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Need to lift or lower large components in a confined underground environment?

Contact VSL to learn more about our engineered heavy lifting systems for tunneling applications.