Herrenknecht joins EFNARC as we expand our certification scheme to TBM pilots

Recently, Herrenknecht AG joined EFNARC as our latest corporate member. To master every small and large underground construction project, the technology leader, with 5,000 employees, develops project-specific tunnelling technologies that turn visions into reality. 

With their expertise and leadership in mechanized Tunnelling, Herrenknecht's membership comes at a pivotal moment as EFNARC is about to expand its certifications to include the TBM pilot scheme. 

Launch of EFNARC TBM Pilot Scheme

After 15 years of successfully certifying Nozzle Operators and Examiners, EFNARC proudly announces the launch of our TBM Pilot Scheme, supported by the International Tunnelling Association´s Working Group 14 (ITA WG14) and ITAtech AG Excavation (SubAG TBM Service Guideline). The training is based on the EFNARC nozzle operator certification scheme which has proved its effectiveness in recent years. 

The EFNARC TBM Pilot Scheme both includes an Examiner Certificate (a train-the-trainer course for experts with 5+ years EPB Tunnel Bore Machine), as well as a TBM pilot course aimed at both novice and experienced TBM operators. 

Learn more about the new TBM Pilot Certification Scheme 

As the market leader in mechanized tunnelling, Herrenknecht brings unparalleled knowledge and innovation to our organization. Faithful to their commitment “Pioneering underground together”, Herrenknecht´s collaboration with EFNARC shows their commitment to advancing industry standards and promoting excellence in underground construction. 

When Martin Herrenknecht founded Herrenknecht GmbH in 1977, no one knew the groundbreaking success that would set in motion. From the passion of a small team of technology-loving engineers, a globally operating group developed. The thirst for progress created milestones in tunnelling technology. And from the courage to prove themselves evolved masterpieces of tunnel construction. But that's nowhere near the end of the adventure: the future promises more. 

Empowering Construction and Mining Professionals: CUC's Innovative Training Solutions

The Centre for Underground Construction (CUC) stands at the forefront of empowering construction and mining professionals globally. With the increasing demand for underground facilities, there's a pressing need for well-trained personnel in both practical and theoretical aspects. CUC's training center addresses this demand by offering a variety of programs tailored to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge. Whether through in-person or hybrid courses, participants benefit from hands-on experiences led by industry experts, ensuring excellence in their chosen fields. 

Elevating Construction Expertise 

CUC is the premier destination for comprehensive construction industry education and training, focusing on practical skills development. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in tailored programs designed for individuals and companies, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. 

Unique features such as in-person sessions with industry professionals and hybrid courses ensure an unparalleled educational experience. With a focus on real-world simulations and industry projects, learners benefit from invaluable insights and practical tips for career advancement. 

Customized corporate training solutions and a cutting-edge curriculum prepare participants for future challenges. Choose CUC for expert training and unlock your full potential in the construction industry.

Driving Excellence in Construction Through Collaboration with EFNARC

At CUC, we align closely with EFNARC's mission to elevate industry standards. Together, we develop cutting-edge courses tailored to industry needs. Our commitment to excellence ensures our curriculum remains current, empowering professionals to excel in their careers. Through innovative education, we contribute to raising industry standards, in line with EFNARC's vision for the future. 

CUC's Collaborative Achievements: Advancing Excellence in Tunneling and Construction 

UC has accomplished significant milestones this year. In conjunction with EFNARC, it has spearheaded the development of two pivotal training courses: 

• A TBM EPB pilot training course tailored for individuals with tunnel experience seeking to broaden their skill set. This comprehensive program caters to both novice TBM pilots venturing into new territories and seasoned professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of TBM operations and underground environments. 

• A specialized TBM train-the-trainer course designed for seasoned experts with over 5 years of EPB Tunnel Bore Machine experience across multiple projects. This course empowers passionate industry veterans to impart their wealth of knowledge and expertise to future generations. 

In collaboration with Zentrum am Berg, CUC has launched a conventional tunnel training course, complemented by a rigorous 3-day EFNARC examiner course focusing on wet, mechanized concrete spraying. Additionally, a 2-day dry shotcrete course was incorporated to provide participants with comprehensive training in modern tunnel construction techniques.  

Moreover, the CUC Seminar "AI Technology and Innovations in the Chinese Tunnel Industry" served as a platform for insightful discussions, featuring guest speakers from Shanghai universities and industry leaders from SIKA Services and Amberg Group. Topics ranged from groundbreaking innovations in tunnel boring machines to cutting-edge approaches in intelligent tunnel design and sustainability initiatives pioneered by Sika. 

Collaboration is at the heart of CUC's mission. By partnering with a diverse array of academic and industry stakeholders to create impactful courses and seminars, CUC fortifies the foundation of the industry, driving innovation and excellence every step of the way. 

Pioneering Sustainability in Underground Training and Qualification 

It is CUC’s vision to be the global leading institution for real-world and virtual training and qualification of professionals in the domain of underground space in a sustainable manner. At CUC, sustainability is our guiding principle. We are committed to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices within the construction industry; hence our courses emphasize sustainable techniques and materials. Where possible and available we use simulators to reduce material waste. By empowering learners with sustainable knowledge, we aim to create a greener future for the construction sector. 

CUC recognizes that achieving such ambitious objectives requires collaboration with companies and organizations that espouse similar values. 

Support the industry by becoming a contributor or sponsor of CUC! 

Why choose CUC? 

• Diverse training: Find tailored courses for every need, backed by years of experience. 

• Personalized service: Can't find a course? Our experts craft bespoke solutions to meet your learning goals. 

• In-person dynamics: Learn directly from industry pros, fostering networking and real-time feedback. 

• Hybrid flexibility: experience online learning merged with hands-on tunnel training, ensuring deep engagement. 

• Practical focus: engage in simulations and projects, bridging theory and real-world application. 

• Expert guidance: Benefit from industry-seasoned instructors offering invaluable insights for career growth. 

• Corporate solutions: elevate your workforce with customized training aligned to your organization's goals. 

• Leading-edge content: stay ahead with continually updated curriculum reflecting industry trends and best practices. 

CUC Contact Information 

Michael Kompatscher 

Phone: 41 81 734 14 10 

E-Mail: info@cuc.academy 

Normet: An All-Round Player bringing innovation and expertise to EFNARC

In the ever-evolving landscape of underground operations, Finnish company Normet leads in sprayed concrete equipment and field service. With decades of experience, Normet consistently pushes technology and training solutions in mining, tunnelling, and civil engineering projects.

In an interview with Harri Sonninen, Global Product Manager of New Technologies & Training Solutions at Normet, we gained valuable insights into the company's approach and vision, and its role in EFNARC.

Sonninen, a professional with 16 years of experience at Normet, oversees all training solutions globally and implements new technologies into customer operations, such as scanning devices and VR/XR technologies. Normet has offered technical and operator training since the production of sprayers started in the 1970s, "we've come a long way from yelling training instructions over the roar of compressors to embracing the latest VR technology in our training programs, which we greatly prefer." says Sonninen.

In recent decades, Normet evolved to offer an extensive portfolio of mining and tunnelling solutions, covering the process chain of their clients to “combine service and training agreements, along with data analytic packages and Battery electric Vehicles,” says Sonninen.

A lifelong relationship

Normet has been part of EFNARC for decades and developed nozzle operator certification schemes to meet industry standards and safety requirements worldwide, contributing to industry advancements.

Harri Sonninen

Global Product Manager of New Technologies & Training Solutions at Normet

Sonninen believes Normet’s involvement in developing a simulator training solution –with EFNARC– was a turning point. “We did have some sprayed concrete simulators more than 10 years ago, and meeting the standards around simulator training was a big question mark for us. When EFNARC started to develop this VR simulator training program, it was a valuable moment for Normet to step in and give our own expertise,” he says.

According to Sonninen, Normet's collaboration with EFNARC not only ensures they participate in defining the highest industry standards but also contributes to “the sustainable and safe development of the mining and tunnelling industry”.

VR as a game-changer

Sonninen highlighted Normet's commitment to innovation, bringing forward its virtual reality spraying training simulator, which provides diverse training environments and digital twins of its equipment and underground conditions.

"VR training allows us to leverage our global expertise, combining these forces and providing standardized training programs worldwide while offering valuable data insights and promoting sustainability and safety," said the Normet manager. “Our customers are saving money; we are making the projects more profitable by increasing people’s competence, reducing material waste, lowering operational emissions and saving operational time. They get benefits if they save emissions during our trainings too,” he added.

Chuquicamata iconic project

One of the key projects discussed was the Chuquicamata Underground copper mining project in Chile, where Normet provided concrete transportation, equipment (concrete sprayers, mixers), training (including virtual reality simulators), chemical support, and other services.

“We were part of the project from its inception, working closely with our local subsidiary to ensure a flawless execution. It is a good example of how we implement our complete solutions”

— Harri Sonninen

Addressing challenges faced in such projects, the Finnish highlighted the importance of environmental and location factors, due to the challenges the arid climate posed for concrete mixing and the difficulty to bring competent workforce to remote areas.

"Our global understanding combined with local expertise enables us to meet unique project requirements effectively," he explained, noting how Normet’s presence in 30 countries and 50 locations allows for truly tailored solutions, especially in entire sprayed concrete operation, operator training, and the concrete mix design expertise.

Green Innovation

When it comes to sustainability, Sonninen outlined Normet's focus on implementing new technologies, such as battery-operated equipment and VR simulators, to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices that align with global Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs). Normet's simulators contribute to environmental conservation by saving fuel, materials, and time during training, with historical data showing a 23% improvement in operational efficiency. "By optimizing processes, improving energy efficiency, reducing the amount of cement in production by correct mix design and avoiding extra usage and waste of concrete, we strive to minimize environmental impact," Sonninen explained.

Looking ahead, Sonninen identified digitalization as a key trend shaping the industry. "Digitalization, including data handling, simulator solutions, automated spraying units, scanning and mapping technologies to monitor the sprayed concrete thickness layers and capture its profile information, is revolutionizing in underground operations, and Normet is at the forefront," he stated, and added, “we are the industry role model in sprayed concrete technology, and it is one of our main focuses”.

Normet's dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence continues to redefine the landscape of mining and tunnelling operations globally. With a strong commitment to meeting customer needs and embracing industry trends, Normet remains a pioneer in our field.

Member Success Story: Bekaert's Involvement in the M4-M5 Link Tunnels Project, Sydney

Bekaert, a global leader in steel wire transformation and coating technologies, aspires to be the leading partner in shaping a safer, smarter, and sustainable future. Renowned for its expertise in material science, Bekaert provides innovative steel wire solutions for the construction industry, ensuring structures meet the highest standards in speed, cost-effectiveness, safety, and durability. 

Benoit De Rivaz, the Global Business Development Technical Manager for Bekaert Underground Solutions, is at the helm of this success. With a decade dedicated to Dramix in tunneling applications and a rich background in international tunneling projects, Benoit shares more on Bekaert's involvement in the M4-M5 Link Tunnels Project.

Introducing the M4-M5 Link Tunnels Project

Bekaert played a crucial role in the success of the M4-M5 Link Tunnels project in Sydney, Australia. The 7.5km-long tunnels connect the new M4 Tunnels with the M8 Tunnels, forming the 33km-long WestConnex Motorway. 

The project involved innovative solutions to address challenges faced by past applications.

The Challenge

The M4-M5 Link Tunnels project in Sydney faced substantial challenges in Permanent Sprayed Concrete Lining (PSCL) applications, requiring a departure from adhesion reliance for long-term performance. 

All thin linings must perform under fire exposures of four hours ISO and two hours HC both during fire incident and post-fire with a residual load capacity. These new requirements drove a minimum thickness of sprayed concrete to be 130mm or greater, even in relatively competent rock.

Pioneering these changes, the project team innovatively redesigned the mix, prioritizing high structural performance, notably in flexural capacity. A key transformation included introducing groundbreaking high-strength steel (1850MPa) double end-hook fibers, a first in Australian sprayed concrete.

Challenges included validating design improvements through large-scale testing in a field confirmation phase. High-performance shotcrete facilitated specialized design methods, crucial for proving the capacity of thin linings.

Validation tests followed EN 14651, confirming the performance class mini per MC 2010. The final mix achieved targeted structural performance with a strength of 40 MPa and residual flexural strength values (fr1 > 3.5 MPa and fr4 > 3MPa), overcoming industry challenges.

Numerical demonstrations showcased compressive membrane action significantly enhancing flexural performance, setting a precedent for future advancements in sprayed concrete technology.

How Dramix® 4D65/35BG Steel Fibres Were Used

Recognizing past challenges with concrete reinforcement, the M4-M5 Link Tunnels project took a decisive turn at its onset, opting for a transformative solution – Dramix 4D65/35BG steel fibres. This high-performance end-hooked steel fiber addressed historical non-conformance issues and design checks, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods.

Introducing Dramix 4D65/35BG brought a compelling value proposition, delivering equivalent technical performance to conventional reinforcement but significantly reducing steel usage by up to 60%. This strategic reduction enhanced the project's efficiency and markedly reduced its carbon footprint, aligning with sustainability objectives for underground construction.

Dramix SFRC's outstanding performance, particularly in hardening post-crack behavior validated through a three-point bending test, ensured effective crack control during Serviceability Limit State (SLS) conditions and enhanced structural ductility under Ultimate Limit State (ULS) conditions. 
Designed for permanent sprayed concrete applications, Dramix 4D65/35BG demonstrated optimal crack control capabilities thanks to its innovative glue technology that addressed fiber balling during mixing and ensured a homogeneous distribution of fibers throughout the concrete mix. 

With features such as high tensile strength exceeding 1800MPA and a fiber network of 16,000 lm/m3 at a minimal 30 kg/m³, Dramix 4D65/35BG emerged as a pioneering solution, setting new benchmarks for concrete reinforcement in the project.

Benefits Achieved

The use of Dramix 4D65/35BG resulted in notable performance benefits. The tunnel linings saw a 15% reduction in sprayed concrete thickness and a 10% reduction in reinforced steel fibers. It also demonstrated cost savings of $11,000,000. 

Benoit emphasized: 

"To maximize the use of such high-performance shotcrete, the design adopted for the tunnel lining also included a concept not previously used in designing thin tunnel linings with rock bolts: compressive membrane action."

The project also substantially reduced sprayed concrete usage and reinforced steel fibers, resulting in environmental and cost-saving benefits. Benoit highlighted the success: 

"After more than 250,000 m3 of steel-fibre reinforced shotcrete sprayed in the project, the project confirmed a successful and consistently conforming application of this higher performance shotcrete with an overall quantity reduction in shotcrete of between 15% to 20%.

The tunnel linings, incorporating Bekaert's steel fibers, were designed for a 100-year lifespan with a focus on sustainability. 

The decision to use SFRC aimed to reduce shotcrete quantities, achieve cost savings, and promote environmental sustainability. Bekaert continues to explore recyclability, contributing to a microplastic and pollution-free solution.

Bekaert's involvement contributed significantly to the project's recognition with the Excellence in Economic Outcomes Award by the Australian Infrastructure Sustainability Council. The value proposition of using high-performance shotcrete fibers at lower dose rates played a crucial role in the project's success.

Mobile Wallet Certificate

EFNARC Launches Nozzle Operator & Examiner Mobile Wallet Certificate for Enhanced Accessibility and Verification

EFNARC has introduced a new initiative: the Nozzle Operator and Examiner Mobile Wallet Certificate. This development allows individuals to carry their EFNARC certificates as a convenient item on their smartphones, accessible through a user-friendly mobile wallet application.

The new mobile wallet certificate aims to streamline the verification process, making it simpler for clients, site managers, and stakeholders to access and authenticate the qualifications of Nozzle operators and Examiners at tunnel sites. This development is expected to significantly increase the likelihood of clients requiring EFNARC Nozzle Operator certificates on their construction projects.

Key Features of the Mobile Wallet Certificate

EFNARC-certified Nozzle Operators and Examiners can now enjoy the following features:

1. Instant Accessibility: Certificates are readily available on mobile devices, enabling quick and easy verification via a simple QR-code scan.

2. Complementary to PDF Format: Certificates will still be provided in PDF format, ensuring flexibility in usage and compatibility with conventional documentation.

3. Increased Stakeholder Accessibility: All stakeholders involved in construction projects can conveniently access the necessary details regarding certification.

Existing Nozzle operators and Examiners with valid EFNARC certificates can obtain the mobile wallet certificate for a fee of 30 EUR, allowing them to seamlessly integrate their current credentials into their mobile devices.

To acquire the Mobile Wallet Certificate, certified Nozzle Operator Examiners can head to EFNARC Mobile Wallet Certificate in the Private Examiners´ Area and add it to their cart. You’ll then receive an invitation via email and can download it to your phone. 

The mobile wallet application is available for both Android and iPhone users, ensuring compatibility across various platforms. All new issues or renewals of certificates will get the mobile wallet certificate by default.

This initiative by EFNARC marks a significant step towards modernising certification processes within the construction industry, fostering increased accessibility and ease of verification for all involved parties.

EFNARC Welcomes Marti Group as a Valuable New Contractor Member

EFNARC proudly announces the addition of Marti Group, headquartered in Moosseedorf, Switzerland, as its latest member. 

Marti Holding AG, a private limited company established in 1922, leads the Marti Group, an internationally renowned Swiss construction conglomerate comprising approximately 80 subsidiaries operating under the Holding AG umbrella.

Marti Group: A Construction Powerhouse

Marti Group's presence extends across various countries, with independently managed subsidiaries operating in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Iceland, Norway, Slovakia, India, and China.

As a general contractor, Marti Group specialises in diverse construction domains, including building construction, civil engineering, tunnelling, special civil engineering works, road construction, conveying technology, and renewal and reconstruction projects.

The Marti Group is currently engaged in several significant projects, including Limmern and Nant de Drance pump storage stations, the iconic Prime Tower in Zurich, and the Cross-city link at Zurich's main station. These projects underscore the group's commitment to innovation and excellence in the construction realm.

Enriching EFNARC's Member Profile

The inclusion of Marti Group as a contractor member significantly enriches EFNARC's corporate member base, enhancing its diversity and expertise. With our current member base predominantly consisting of equipment manufacturers, chemical manufacturers, fibre producers, digitalisation of shotcrete processes, and simulator training providers, adding a general contractor like Marti Group is a crucial and valuable contribution.

Contractors play a pivotal role in the shotcrete process, including:

• Implementing guidelines: Contractors are responsible for implementing and adhering to industry guidelines and best practices related to shotcrete application. They ensure the shotcrete process follows specified standards, safety measures, and quality control protocols.

• Training operators: Contractors are crucial in training and supervising their operators. They provide comprehensive training programs, ensuring their workforce is well-versed in handling shotcrete equipment, understanding the application techniques, and following safety procedures.

• Executing shotcrete projects: Contractors are at the forefront of executing shotcrete projects in real-world construction scenarios. They oversee the shotcrete application on construction sites, ensuring that the process is carried out efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with project specifications and quality standards.

• Quality assurance: Contractors maintain a key role in assuring the quality of the shotcrete application. They conduct regular inspections, quality checks, and assessments to ensure that the applied shotcrete meets the required strength, durability, and finish as per project requirements.

EFNARC acknowledges the vital role of contractors and aims to attract more members from this sector to enrich our diverse membership base and provide a holistic representation of the shotcrete industry.

Committed to Improving Industry Best Practices

The inclusion of Marti Group within EFNARC's network emphasises the association's commitment to fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and industry best practices, bringing together a comprehensive spectrum of stakeholders within the shotcrete domain. 

EFNARC looks forward to the valuable insights and expertise that Marti Group will contribute to the association and its mission of advancing quality standards and innovations within the construction industry.