Mixshield

Herrenknecht initiated the innovative Mixshield technique which has met with worldwide success. Tunnelling in changing ground conditions with only one machine but different modes of operation. This can mean: Operation as slurry, earth-pressure balance, compressed air or open-faced shield. Today Herrenknecht sets the standards worldwide.

A distinctive design feature of the Mixshield is the peripheral drive unit, i.e. the floating mounting of the cutting wheel. Thus different modes of operation are possible. With the slurry shield -the most frequent mode of operation -a bentonite suspension serves as support and transport medium. The water-ground-bentonite mixture is separated in a separation plant and the thus reclaimed suspension returned into the circuit.

Basic diagram of a Mixshield:

1. Cutting wheel.
2. Drive unit.
3. Bentonite suspension.
4. Pressure Sensor.
5. Air lock.
6. Erector.
7. Segment.
8. CPush cylinder.
9. Air bubble.
10. Mamparo sumergible.
11. Stone crusher.
12. Discharge line.