Tunnel Construction Professionals

Shield Tunneling

Chief,Hiroshima Expressway 5 JV Project Office  Mamoru NARUTAKI

Chief, Hiroshima Expressway 5 JV Project Office Mamoru NARUTAKI

“Always contemplate teamwork”

To proceed with construction without delay

I first got involved in shield tunnelling in 2011, and this is my fourth shield tunnelling project following the construction of a mega-solar power plant, diaphragm walls of a junction, and others.
Currently, I am in charge of excavation management, equipment maintenance, and materials management at the site.

The large-diameter shield machine used in this project is equipped with many disk cutters, many of which need to be replaced due to wear from drilling through hard bedrock. Precise prediction for the replacement timing and strict construction management in the replacement work is crucial.
Since the shield machine is made overseas, in the event of problems, we need to communicate with the manufacturer in English, with consideration for the time difference. To avoid such a situation, we try to prevent any problems by checking the numerical values on the excavation control monitor.

As for materials management, the major part of the work is the inspection and replacement of sludge discharge pipes. To avoid delays in the excavation and halting work of the workers due to holes or other defects in the pipes from wear, we make predictions and arrangements for the materials so that replacement will be smooth and systematic.

Chief,Hiroshima Expressway 5 JV Project Office  Mamoru NARUTAKI
Communication for a better work atmosphere

While each person on site has his or her role to play, doing one's best in the position assigned, I believe that performance as a team is further enhanced by helping each other out. Therefore, I try to create many communication opportunities on an everyday basis.

That includes exchanging a few words when I see supervisors and talking to as many people as possible in the rest area. Recently, I also started playing futsal, inviting mainly young people to join. Active communication creates a good atmosphere at work, so I definitely will continue the effort.

Looking forward to the tunnel completion as a local

The Hiroshima Expressway 5 Shield Tunnel Construction Project is the longest construction project I have ever been involved in. During that period, I got married, had a child, and bought a house, so I feel more and more attached to this area.
As a construction worker, I hope for the project's success without any accidents, and also as a local resident, I look forward to experiencing enhanced convenience with my family.