TBM operators anyone here done it?

[RigRunner]

Has anyone here ever operated one of those gigantic tunnel boring machines (TBMs)? I've always been curious about what it's like to be in control of one of those monsters. I'd really like to hear about the training process, the actual work, and what a typical shift feels like underground

If you've had the chance to sit in the driver's seat, share your stories

 

[FastFortyFive]

Has anyone here ever operated one of those gigantic tunnel boring machines (TBMs)? I've always been curious about what it's like to be in control of one of those monsters. I'd really like to hear about the training process, the actual work, and what a typical shift feels like underground

If you've had the chance to sit in the driver's seat, share your stories

Those machines always fascinate me. I wonder how long the training typically takes

 

[DeliDude]

Has anyone here ever operated one of those gigantic tunnel boring machines (TBMs)? I've always been curious about what it's like to be in control of one of those monsters. I'd really like to hear about the training process, the actual work, and what a typical shift feels like underground

If you've had the chance to sit in the driver's seat, share your stories

I'm curious about the training process you mentioned. How much of the job is about feeling and listening to the machine versus relying on the data screens and telemetry?
It seems like it would take a lot of skill to know exactly how the ground is reacting to the pressure

 

[GaugeWatch3r]

Operating a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is super automated, but needs a lot of training. You'll keep an eye on things, change settings, and work alongside the ground team. Just remember, it's noisy and shaky down there, and the shifts are long.