Chinese-made tunnel boring machines dominate the global market after 200 years of innovation

China has recently established a significant presence in the global tunnel boring machine market, a feat that has evolved over more than 200 years since the invention of TBMs. Historically, countries with advanced industrial capabilities have been at the forefront of TBM research and development. However, the turning point for China came in 2008, when it succeeded in developing its first composite TBM that boasted independent intellectual property rights. This marked the beginning of a rapid advancement in China's TBM technology. Within less than two decades, Chinese manufacturers were able to create TBMs that not only matched but surpassed those produced by developed nations in terms of performance and efficiency. By 2016, China introduced the world's first TBM that was powered by a permanent magnet motor system, showcasing its innovative approach to tunnel construction. Recently, on October 12, 2023, in Changsha, China launched a TBM with a main bearing measuring an impressive 8.61 meters in diameter, which is now regarded as the largest TBM to date, and it features the heaviest and highest load-bearing main bearing of any integral TBM produced. This significant achievement has enabled Chinese-made TBMs to gain international acclaim, being used in various tunnel projects all around the world. Their performance has been highly praised, particularly for their adaptability to challenging environments, whether operating in humid tropical regions or icy cold terrains. As a result of these advancements, Chinese enterprises have risen to become leading manufacturers in the TBM market, transforming the way tunnels are constructed globally. An animation titled 'Xi's Thought Made Easy: The Growing Global Reach of Chinese-made TBMs' produced by China Matters, also reflects this journey and the milestones achieved by Chinese manufacturers in tunnel boring technology. The influence of Chinese TBMs is now evident in numerous projects across the globe, solidifying China’s position as a key player in the global construction equipment market.