ROCK TURNS UP THE VOLUME

This article discusses the construction of the largest road tunnel in Sweden, which faces strict constraints on noise and vibration; it includes two route maps. This tunnel is part of the southern link in the ring motorway being built round Stockholm. Considerable care has been taken to reduce the discomfort of residents who live near the tunnel route. Up to 70 flats are available temporarily for families living along the tunnel alignment, and 50 pagers have been distributed to residents to beep a warning 30min before a blast. However, most complaints have been about the drilling noise, which is continual, rather than the relatively infrequent blasts. Vibration limits from rock blasting have been set at 50mm/s. and vibration and noise sensors have been installed in residences along the alignment. Over 10km of tunnels are being constructed, mostly in hard granite; the depth of the cover over the tunnels is 5-50m. The project includes three major interchanges and several shafts, crossovers, and underground concrete structures. A three-lane tunnel tube runs in each direction, with cross passages every 100m. The tunnel construction has been divided into twelve contracts, and uses computer-controlled equipment; all contractors face strict requirements for pre-grouting ahead of tunnel construction.

  • Corporate Authors:

    EMAP CONSTRUCT LIMITED

    151 ROSEBERY AVENUE
    LONDON,   United Kingdom  EC1R 4QX
  • Authors:
    • BENNETT, R
  • Publication Date: 2000-8

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00799852
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
  • Files: ITRD
  • Created Date: Oct 6 2000 12:00AM