W  hen people talk about maintenance in the context of TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) tunneling, they often refer to what is better described as Time-Based Maintenance (TBM). This type of maintenance involves performing tasks at regular intervals while the equipment is still operational, aiming to prevent failures and reduce the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.

In TBM operations, Time-Based Maintenance can be scheduled based on specific time intervals, such as every week, every month, or every three months. For example, regular inspections and servicing of the TBM’s cutterhead, hydraulic systems, and electrical components can be conducted at these intervals to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Additionally, Time-Based Maintenance can also be usage-based. This means maintenance tasks may be scheduled after a certain number of tunnel cycles or operating hours, such as every 150 cycles or after every 10,000 operating hours, similar to how vehicles require servicing after a specific distance (e.g., every 10,000 km).

Apart from the regular interval approach, other maintenance types fall within the preventive maintenance category, including:

• Condition-Based Maintenance: Monitoring the actual condition of the TBM and performing maintenance only when specific indicators suggest that a potential failure could occur.

• Predictive Maintenance: Using advanced analytics and monitoring technologies to predict when maintenance should be performed, thereby minimizing downtime and reducing costs.