In shield construction in complex strata, the challenges brought by highly cohesive clay layers emerge one after another. Problems such as mud cake on the cutter head, blocked muck discharge pipes, unstable pressure in the chamber and a sharp drop in boring efficiency not only seriously slow down the project but also greatly increase equipment wear and construction risk. Traditional water or ordinary additives often treat the symptom rather than the cause and cannot fundamentally change the agglomerated state of the clay particles.
In response to these market pain points, Chemi Tech, drawing on its deep chemical research strength, has introduced a series of highly efficient shield clay dispersants. The core of our solution lies in the design of a unique molecular structure that efficiently wets, penetrates and disperses clay particles and destroys their network structure, thereby significantly reducing the viscosity and yield stress of the slurry and fundamentally improving its fluidity.
Our professional solution follows clear steps: first, our technical team conducts an in-depth analysis of the project's geological report and construction parameters to evaluate the clay characteristics. Second, through laboratory bench tests we precisely match and recommend the most suitable dispersant model and initial addition ratio. Then we provide a detailed on-site dosing plan and operating instructions to ensure that the chemical and the soil are fully mixed. Finally, we carry out dynamic monitoring and parameter optimization during construction to achieve continuous and stable slurry performance.
In an urban rail transit tunnel project in East China, the contractor encountered severe mud cake on the cutter head and blowouts from the screw conveyor while crossing a thick layer of soft plastic clay, and the daily boring distance was less than half the design value. After applying Chemi Tech's customized dispersant, the muck-carrying capacity and fluidity of the slurry improved markedly, the mud cake on the cutter head was essentially eliminated, and the muck discharge system returned to smooth operation. In the end, the average boring efficiency of the section rose by about 60%, and the cutter head and tools of the shield machine were effectively protected, earning high recognition from the contractor.
Choosing Chemi Tech means choosing not just a product but a reliable technical support system. We are committed to providing a solid chemical solution for every difficult stretch of boring, helping the project pass through the clay barrier and move steadily forward.