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Project Details
Diamond Drilling SRL completed a tunnel widening project in Bulgaria using Brokk demolition robots (Brokk 200 and Brokk 520D). The 100-meter tunnel required an expansion from 3.2 meters to 7 meters in diameter over a 9-meter section. The work included removing 25 meters of concrete and 150 cubic meters of granite, installing metal arches, and using shotcrete consolidation across seven stages. The project was successfully completed within a tight one-month timeframe in challenging November weather.
Objectives
The use of Brokk demolition robots became essential, offering precision, safety, and operational efficiency needed to address both structural and environmental challenges. With the following objectives in mind, Diamond Drilling SRL set out to accomplish this intricate project successfully:
- Widen the tunnel effectively and efficiently.
- Complete the project within a one-month deadline.
- Maintain the structural integrity of the tunnel.
- Manage challenges posed by weather and groundwater infiltration.
OUTCOMES
- The tunnel was successfully expanded within the tight timeframe without compromising safety.
- Precision demolition reduced material waste, cutting disposal costs and minimizing environmental impact.
- Brokk robots facilitated remote operation, enhancing operator safety and visibility.
- Brokk’s versatility allowed for better project access and maneuverability, even in confined spaces.
Next Steps & Future Use
The success of this project showcases the capabilities of Brokk robots, enhancing Diamond Drilling SRL's portfolio and allowing them to diversify into various demolition projects. Future uses include targeting broader demolition applications, leveraging the adaptability and safety features of Brokk robots to meet increasing demand for complex tunneling and demolition tasks across transportation infrastructure projects.
BuiltWorlds Analysis
Surveyed contractors identified increasing jobsite accuracy as the primary use case for robotics, with 88% citing applications in tasks like layout and drywall installation. Key secondary functions include reducing manual labor (71%), mitigating labor shortages and safety risks (both at 59%), lowering project costs, and enhancing visibility in hard-to-access areas (35% each). According to BuiltWorlds' 2024 data, adoption levels vary: a small group has fully integrated robotics, a slightly larger group uses them in most projects, and a significant share employs robotics selectively, often in pilot phases. Despite these advances, many contractors are still in the early stages of exploring or implementing robotic solutions.
Demolition robotics have become a critical component of construction technology, especially as the industry shifts towards increased automation and precision. These robots enhance safety and efficiency by performing high-risk demolition tasks, reducing the need for manual labor in hazardous environments. They are particularly valuable in confined or hard-to-access spaces where traditional machinery may be impractical or unsafe. In the broader construction tech landscape, demolition robotics address significant industry challenges such as labor shortages, the need for high precision, and safety concerns.
Brokk stands out as a leading solution in this space. Known for their compact yet powerful design, Brokk robots provide remote-controlled demolition capabilities that are highly adaptable across various construction scenarios, from tunnel widening to complex building renovations. Their ability to precisely target and dismantle structures makes them ideal for projects that demand accuracy and operator safety. Furthermore, Brokk robots contribute to operational cost savings by minimizing waste and lowering labor requirements, supporting contractors' goals for efficient and safe project execution.