Precise Solution for TBM Foaming Issues: Chemi Tech Efficient Defoamer Ensures Smooth Project Execution

During tunnel boring machine (TBM) construction, persistent foam generated in the slurry separation system is a common and troublesome issue. Excessive foam not only occupies the effective volume of the slurry chamber and separation equipment, reducing muck separation efficiency and causing discharge difficulties, but may also lead to pump cavitation, inaccurate instrument readings, and even environmental pollution from overflow, directly impacting construction progress and cost control.

Common market pain points include defoaming products lacking specificity, foam recurrence after addition, or interference with subsequent processes. The Chemi Tech technical team has conducted an in-depth analysis of TBM slurry system characteristics, recognizing that foam stability originates from polymers, fine particles, and surfactants in the slurry. Therefore, using general-purpose defoamers often provides only a temporary fix.

The core of our solution lies in the dual-action mechanism of "rapid foam breaking" and "long-lasting foam suppression." The Chemi Tech TBM-specific sewage defoamer is meticulously formulated with specially modified polyethers and synergistic carrier technology. Its molecular structure is designed for the TBM slurry environment, enabling rapid penetration and disruption of the foam film's surface tension for instant defoaming. Simultaneously, the active components disperse stably within the slurry system, providing long-term inhibition of foam re-generation, suitable for the continuous operation of TBMs.

The specific treatment procedure is as follows: First, our engineers communicate with the site to understand the TBM type, geological conditions, slurry composition, and current foam severity. Second, we recommend initial small-dose trials at points of highest foam concentration, such as the slurry chamber outlet or the flow channel before vibrating screens. Using a metering pump for precise continuous or intermittent addition is advised, with a starting dosage typically ranging from 0.05% to 0.2% of the circulating slurry volume. Subsequently, close observation of foam reduction is essential, and the dosing rate is fine-tuned based on foam dynamics until the ideal state of a clear liquid surface and smooth equipment operation is achieved. Finally, we provide ongoing follow-up support to ensure stable defoaming performance without compromising the slurry's original muck-carrying and wall-supporting properties.

We served a tunneling project traversing complex strata in East China. When boring into a water-rich sandy layer, foam in the slurry system increased dramatically, almost covering the vibrating screens and reducing separation efficiency by over 40%. After applying the Chemi Tech defoamer, site personnel added the recommended dosage at key points. A significant thinning of the foam layer was observed within approximately 15 minutes, and the system foam was fully controlled within one hour. Efficient slurry screening resumed, ensuring the TBM's continuous and steady advance and saving the project potential additional costs from downtime and cleanup.

Choosing Chemi Tech means selecting not just an efficient product, but a systematic technical support package for TBM foam challenges. We are committed to providing professional chemical solutions to clear foam obstacles for your tunneling projects, ensuring smooth construction and economic benefits.