High-performance friction lubricant for improved tunneling efficiency

Encapso™: innovative friction lubricant

Tunneling operators are continually searching for new ways to improve soil conditioning while overcoming challenges such as sticking clays, water incursions, and friction.

The solution? Our Encapso™ friction lubricant. It's a major change in the evolution of tunnel boring component delivery, resulting in superior boring and better cost-efficiencies. A high-performance soil conditioning agent, Encapso™ has been proven to improve productivity in even the most complex tunneling projects. And, as a non-hazardous and biodegradable alternative, it has great sustainability credentials too.

Discover the benefits of Encapso™ over traditional friction lubricants.

With Encapso™, tunneling operators can be safe in the knowledge that they are increasing their advance rates by providing conditioning where it is needed most. Comprising triglyceride oils, this innovative friction lubricant can reduce wear, thanks to its unique tribological properties. And as it can efficiently plasticize spoils, Encapso™ also helps aid muck removal.

That's not all. Encapso™ improves the stability of the tunnel face by reducing water incursion, while productivity is increased further as ports can be kept open and clean during application – avoiding potential shutdowns. Plus, as it is naturally encapsulated, Encapso™ is compatible with a wide variety of slurries and foams.

Proven performance in tunnels

The results speak for themselves. We have tested Encapso™ in a range of tests – both on-site and in the laboratory:

• Seattle case study: 72% improvement in advance rate and 2x productivity.

• Laboratory tests: less cutter wear, fewer interventions and faster progress.

• Commercial use in a 21-foot diameter tunnel:

  • 72% improvement in advance rate after use – in just 20 feet.

  • More seamless operations by improving consistency of movement.

  • Improved productivity from 45 feet/day to 90 feet/day.

Encapso™ is a proven friction lubricant that improves advance rate, consistency of movement, and muck condition/consistency – transforming tunnel boring activity.

For more information, please contact our expert team today.