Describe in brief with neat sketch construction of tunnel with needle beam method
In this method stout timber beam known as needle beam is used which forms the main temporary support during the excavation.
Construction steps: (a) First of all a small drift of about 1 × 1 m is prepared on the working face of tunnel. (b) The roof of this drift is then supported on lagging provided on wooden segments which are carried on the trench jacks as shown in the (c) The needle beam is placed horizontally, whose front end rests on drift and the rear end is supported on vertical stout post. (d) After excavation, the lining is provided to the tunnel section and mucking is done.