Monthly Seminar – Jack Box Tunneling

Jeremy Kruger-Thiess

ABSTRACT

Already recipient of a major international engineering award, the jacked boxes comprise two 65m long concrete structures which were jacked beneath the main North Coast railway line (6 operating tracks) at Toombul in difficult ground conditions.  The operation was one of the largest of its type ever undertaken – each box weighing around 10,000 tonnes, requiring a combined jacking force of up to 28,000 tonnes.

This presentation will discuss the geotechnical challenges as well as showcasing the successful operation of the Jacked Box.  It will include descriptions of the significant preparatory works including installation of canopy tubes, jet grouting, soil nails and ground stabilization.

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHY

Jeremy is the Principal Geotechnical Engineer of Thiess with over 17 years experience in geotechnical design, design management and construction supervision of tunnel and other major infrastructure projects.

Jeremy was the Technical Manager with Thiess John Holland JV on the A$4.8B Airport Link Project where he managed the design and technical aspects of the complex jacked boxes operation.  His current role is the Engineering Manager for Moreton Bay Rail Project.

Engineers Australia members participating in AGS technical sessions can record attendance on their personal CPD logs. Members should refer to Engineers Australia CPD policy for details on CPD types, requirements and auditing guidelines.