Recently, the "Wensu" TBM (tunnel boring machine) achieved a remarkable single-day advance rate of 41 meters during difficult excavation in the West Tianshan Extra-Long Tunnel, successfully breaking the world record for the highest daily advance rate among machines of the same class, same type, and same construction method.

With a total length of 15.7 kilometers, the West Tianshan Extra-Long Tunnel is not only a natural barrier but also a key link connecting northern and southern Xinjiang and promoting regional development. Faced with extreme geological conditions and harsh construction environments, the builders, relying on their perseverance and the support of high-tech equipment, are gradually turning this natural chasm into a thoroughfare.

As the star equipment on this magnificent journey, the "Wensu" TBM, with its massive 235-meter body, astonishing weight of 1,800 tons, and ultra-large diameter of 8.83 meters, has become the largest-diameter TBM ever to cross the Tianshan Mountains.

Behind the efficient excavation is a series of custom-made cutters from Lingyuan Technology. These cutters, like the sharp "teeth" of the TBM, with their outstanding performance and exceptional stability, move freely through the complex and variable geological environment, ensuring the smooth progress of the excavation work and providing strong support for the excavation operations of the "Wensu" TBM.

Up to now, the "Wensu" TBM has completed a cumulative excavation of 509 meters, and its efficient performance is remarkable. As excavation work continues, the construction of the West Tianshan Extra-Long Tunnel is steadily advancing. As an important component of the Zhaosu–Wensu Highway on National Highway 219, this project is of great significance for shortening the driving distance between Yining and Aksu and promoting the economic development of northern and southern Xinjiang.