WO2012098531A1

WO2012098531A1 - Tunnelling apparatus and method therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2012098531A1
Application number: PCT/IB2012/050290
Authority: WO
Inventors: Albert William Francis FOURIE
Original assignee: Fourie Albert William Francis
Priority date: 2011-01-21
Filing date: 2012-01-23
Publication date: 2012-07-26

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pipe jacking apparatus, and method therefor, that can jack pipes upwardly at an adjustable inclination, allowing pipe jacking to be carried out at various high inclination angles, for example to be able to cut inclined mining cross cuts for ventilation and ore passes. It also allows for the pipes to be locked in place while new pipe casings are being loaded, and is configured for the removal of slurry from the cutting face.

Description

TUNNELLING APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a tunnelling apparatus and method therefor. More particularly but not exclusively it relates to a tunnelling apparatus for use in boring tunnels in coal mines.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There is a need in mines to install cross-cut shafts for various reasons, such as to provide ventilation, emergency access ways, or ore passes.

Such shafts can typically run at oblique angles to the main access ways, interconnecting main access ways located on different levels in the tnine. Installation angles may typically vary from 0 to 60 degrees in elevation and in plain view. The shafts typically range (but are not limited to) between lm and 2 m in diameter and from 10m to 100m in length.

This need is present in most mines, both hard rock and in softer geology, such as coal mines. It is especially problematic to install these cross-cuts in mines where the geology requires steep cross-cuts to be installed through unstable or varied soil conditions.

Also, when such cross cut development is required, it is typically carried out in order to prepare a section of productive reef or a seam for mining, it is important that the development be carried out quickly. This is because every day that development is occurs, is a day that production from that reef is stalled.

Mines have many safety restrictions relating to the use of equipment underground, and the nature of mining, and coal mining in particular, can be extremely hazardous in many respects. In one respect, the leakage of hazardous and explosive gasses from ground that has been mined or bored is a common threat. In another respect, the ground that coal is found in may typically be of a softer nature than the harder rock that other minerals may be found in. Softer ground is easier to cut through, but may be more liable to collapse.

The development of tunnels for ore passes and ventilation cross cuts in particular (and some emergency access ways) are particularly dangerous, as these types of tunnels can have steep inclines. Currendy, two methods are used to develop such cross cuts, namely traditional drilling and blasting, and raise boring. Where traditional drill and blast methods are used to cut these ventilation cross cuts or ore passes, miners are required to enter these tunnels to manually perform the operations of drilling, and inserting explosives. After the ground has been blasted, they are required to enter into these tunnels in which the ground is unstable, ventilation is poor, and the atmospheric conditions may be explosive or poisonous. Roof bolts and/or meshing and/ or shotcreting are then installed in the newly blasted tunnels to stabilise the ground.

This process is time and labour intensive, and has obviously undesirable safety aspects. One solution may be to develop in a downward direction, but this is problematic due to the need to haul out muck and the risk of having miners falling down a steep shaft. Should any accidents occur during such developments, besides the potentially tragic consequences, time lost in subsequent investigations and body recovery may further delay production and is highly undesirable.

Raise-boring is another method used to cut ore passes and cross cuts. This involves the use of a mechanised system, whereby a drilling head attached to a drill string is used to bore a hole from one level to the other. The drill is powered from a drive head positioned on a frame in the originating location, or in a reaming operation, wherein a pilot hole is first drilled from the originating location, after which a cutting head is attached to the drill string at the opposed end. The cutting head is then pulled upwardly by means of the drill string, while rotating it to bore upwardly. However, d is method has other disadvantages.

One of these is that the torque that can be transmitted through the drill string is limited by its small diameter and long length. Further, the entire operation boring operation is required to be completed before a liner can be installed. This may not be possible in unstable ground since the shaft may collapse before a casing can be installed. Further, the raise boring cutting head is difficult to steer. This could cause the cross cut to be cut inaccurately during long bores and/ or in varying soil conditions.

Pipe jacking, also known as pipejacking or pipe-jacking, is a method of tunnel construction where hydraulic jacks are used to push specially made pipes through the ground behind a tunnel boring machine (or shield). This technique is commonly used to create tunnels under existing structures, such as roads or railways, without having to dig the roadways up. Tunnels constructed by pipe jacking are normally small diameter tunnels with an upper size of around 3.04m. The method involves boring a hole by means of a tunnel boring head, pushing a pipe casing into the bored hole, and then retracting the jack for insertion of the next pipe casing. Insertion of the pipe casing is typically completed by rigging the pipe casing into place with a crane or other rigging equipment, like block and tackle, etc.

The hydraulic rams are typically located on a jacking frame, and push on a heavy steel "dolly", which in turn transfers forces to the pipe casing. The hydraulic rams, dolly and jacking frame are typically heavy equipment, and not suited to manoeuvrability and or mobility, or suited for use in enclosed spaces. In some instances, the jacking frame may be cast into a concrete foundation for stability. Newly inserted pipe casings are supported by the back of the last pipe casing that was inserted, and the dolly, before being pushed into the bored hole.

An advantage of pipe jacking is that it can be accurately steered by the use of three or four steering rams that can adjust the boring angle of the boring head. However, the size of the pipes, jacking rig and dolly mechanism makes pipe jacking inherently unsuited for the cutting of cross cuts in mines at steep inclinations. Typically, slurry is fed to the cutting face to assist in removal of the cut ground. The mixture of cut ground and slurry is then pumped away from the cutting face by a pump installed in the boring head.

In this specification, where reference has been made to external sources of information, including patent specifications and other documents, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the present invention. Unless stated otherwise, reference to such sources of information is not to be construed, in any jurisdiction, as an admission that such sources of information are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

For the purposes of construction of this specification, where reference is made to a series of steps, the steps should not be construed as being in chronological order, unless the steps could only logically be carried out in this order.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a tunnelling apparatus and method therefor which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the

abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect the present invention consists in a method of cutting a cross cut tunnel in an underground mine, comprising the steps of:

• providing a tunnelling apparatus comprising a boring head and a jacking rig;

• pushing the boring head directly or indirectly against a boring face to bore a tunnel; and

• pushing, by means of the jacking rig, cylindrical tunnel lining members into said bored tunnel as the tunnel is bored, to line said tunnel.

Preferably, the boring head is initially pushed directly by the hydraulic rams against the boring face to bore an initial section of tunnel.

Preferably, after boring the initial section of tunnel, die boring head is then pushed indirecdy via the hydraulic rams acting on the tunnel lining members to push the boring head against the boring face.

Preferably, the method includes the step of aligning the boring head at an inclined angle to bore an inclined tunnel.

Preferably the inclination angle is above the horizontal such that the advancing direction of the boring head includes an upward component of direction.

Preferably the tunnelling apparatus is a micro tunnel boring machine.

Preferably, the step of aligning the boring head at an inclined angle includes the steps of:

• prodding an adjustable jacking frame;

• mounting the boring head on said adjustable jacking frame; and · adjusting movement of the adjustable jacking frame to align the angle of inclination of the boring head.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 0 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 15 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises:

• a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground at a boring face; • a jacking mechanism suitable for pushing one selected from

o the boring head against the boring face to tunnel into the ground o tunnel lining members into the tunnel bored by the boring head as it bores the tunnel; and

· a preferably adjustable jacking frame that allows adjustment of the angle of inclination at which the jacking mechanism pushes the tunnel lining members or the boring head.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame allows for adjustment of the direction in which the jacking mechanism pushes in three dimensions.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment of the angle at which the jacking mechanism is to push.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

Preferably, the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

Preferably, the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the frame locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member. Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of a tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on die storage rack.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

• rigg^g apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises

• at least one hydraulic ram, the hydraulic ram being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the dolly mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/ or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/ or boring head. Preferably, the dolly mechanism comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage for supporting the force transfer member.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

Preferably, the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable relative to the guide in a position corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the hydraulic rams are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

Preferably, the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member. Preferably, the locking system comprises at least one slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a second aspect the present invention consists in a tunnelling apparatus comprising:

a boring head adapted for boring a tunnel through ground at a boring face;

a jacking mechanism for pushing tunnel lining members into the tunnel behind the boring head;

a slurry feed system for providing liquid for removal of cut ground as a slurry;

wherein the tunnelling apparatus is adapted and configured to provide a dedicated flow path for slurry to run out.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises an adjustable jacking Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least two dimensions.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts secured in a foundation.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism. Preferably, the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from d e boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head. Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

• rigg^g apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the dolly mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/ or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/ or boring head.

Preferably, the dolly mechanism comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage for supporting the force transfer member.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable relative to the guide in a position

corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism. Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member.

Preferably, the locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a third aspect the present invention consists in a tunnelling apparatus comprising:

• a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground;

• a jacking mechanism for pushing tunnel lining members into a tunnel behind the boring head;

· a magazine mechanism for the storage of tunnel lining members for convenient loading of the tunnel lining members into a suitable position for being pushed into said tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram. Preferably, the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

· rigging apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the tunnelling apparatus comprises an adjustable jacking frame. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the inclination of one or more selected from

· the jacking mechanism

• the boring head; and

• the magazine mechanism.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for an upwards inclination.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for an upwards inclination of between 15 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for an upwards inclination of between 30 and 80 degrees.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for an upwards inclination between 60 and 70 degrees.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the tunnel lining members are substantially cylindrical.

Preferably, the boring head is substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding longitudinal movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable relative to the guide in a position

corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the hydraulic rams are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system. Preferably, the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a fourth aspect the present invention consists in a tunnelling apparatus comprising:

• a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground; and

• a jacking rig comprising

o a jacking mechanism suitable for pushing tunnel lining members into the tunnel bored by the boring head as it bores the tunnel, and

o a jacking frame comprising a jacking frame guide for

guiding movement of said tunnel lining members as they are being pushed into the tunnel by the jacking

mechanism.

Preferably, the jacking frame is an adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation. Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the hydraulic rams. Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

· rigging apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises • at least one hydraulic ram, the hydraulic ram being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in d e dolly guide.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member. Preferably, the locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a fifth aspect the present invention consists in a tunnelling apparatus comprising:

· a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground

• a jacking rig comprising

o a jacking mechanism comprising at least one hydraulic ram movable between a retracted position and an extended position, for pushing tunnel Uning members and/ or the boring head into the tunnel being bored,

a dolly mechanism comprising

^■ a force transfer member on which the hydraulic ram acts to indirectly push the tunnel Uning members into the tunnel being bored; and

^■ a doUy guide and a dolly carriage mountable on it in a movable fashion, the dolly guide securable to the force transfer member to be movable with the force transfer member to be movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

^■ a dolly locking mechanism for locking the position of the dolly carriage in its extended position;

an indexing system for securing the hydraulic rams to the force transfer member in a pluraUty of positions, the indexing system comprising

^■ a pluraUty of indexing lugs associated with one selected from the hydrauUc ram and the force transfer member; and

^■ an indexing locking system associated with the other of said one selected from the jacking mechanism and the dolly mechanism, the indexing locking system being reconfigurable between a

• locked condition in which the indexing

locking system is locked against one of the indexing lugs to lock engagement of the force transfer member with the hydrauUc ram so that they move together between their respective retracted position and extended position; and

• an unlocked condition in which the hydrauUc ram and the force transfer member are movable relative to each other; • whereby, when the indexing locking system is in its unlocked condition, the dolly carriage is lockable by the dolly locking mechanism in its extended position to lock the force transfer member, while the hydraulic ram is movable to a position in which another of the indexing lugs is engageable by the locking system, to thereby enable the hydraulic ram to push the tunnel lining members and/ or boring head further into the tunnel being bored.

Preferably, the jacking rig further comprises an adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted or mountable on the adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

Preferably, the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate d e adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism. Preferably, the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

• rigging apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable relative to the guide in a position

corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a sixth aspect the present invention consists in a jacking rig for a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel into ground with a boring head, the jacking rig comprising:

• a jacking mechanism for pushing at least one selected from a

tunnel lining member and said boring head into the tunnel as it is bored, and • an adjustable jacking frame for adjusting the direction in which the jacking mechanism pushes the tunnel lining member, wherein the adjustable jacking frame is adjustable to provide for at least the adjustment of the angle of inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

Preferably, die adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the jacking rig comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the tainnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

Preferably, the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

• rigging apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable relative to the guide in a position

corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydrauHc ram(s).

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

In a seventh aspect the present invention consists in a method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine, said method comprising the steps of:

• providing a tunnel boring head to cut matter from a boring face to form a tunnel;

• boring a tunnel with said tunnel boring head at a boring face to cut matter from the boring face;

• providing a stream of liquid at or towards the boring face to combine with the cut matter in a slurry; and

• draining the slurry to flow to a low level in said mine; and

• pumping at least part of the slurry to the surface.

Preferably, the tunnel boring head comprises a rotating cutting head having a plurality of cutting bits disposed on it.

Preferably, the tunnel boring head is pushed into the bored tunnel by the action of at least one hydraulic ram pushing it directly or indirectly into the tunnel.

Preferably, the stream of liquid is provided in a manner to impinge on at least part of the boring face.

Preferably, the method includes the step of adding flocculant to separate the cut matter from the liquid in the slurry.

Preferably, the method includes the step of pumping one or more selected from the separated cut matter and the liquid to the mine surface.

Preferably, the method includes the step of using one or more selected from the slurry and the setded cut matter and the liquid for creating a backfill composition.

In an eighth aspect the present invention consists in a method of jacking one or more selected from tunnel lining members and a boring head into a bored tunnel using a jacking rig, the method comprising the steps of

• adjusting at least the angle of inclination of the direction in which a jacking rig can push one or more selected from tunnel lining members and a boring head; • pushing the tunnel lining members into the cross cut tunnel using the jacking rig.

Preferably, the jacking rig includes an adjustable jacking frame that allows for automated adjustment of the angle of inclination.

Preferably, the method includes the step of adjusting the direction in which the jacking rig can push in the substantially horizontal plane.

• providing an adjustable jacking frame;

• mounting the boring head on said adjustable jacking frame; and

• adjusting movement of the adjustable jacking frame to align the angle of inclination of the boring head.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 15 and 90 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

In a ninth aspect the present invention consists in a jacking rig for a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel into ground using a boring head, the jacking rig comprising:

• a jacking mechanism for pushing at least one or more selected from a tunnel lining member and a boring head into the tunnel as it is bored, and

• a locking mechanism for locking said one or more selected from tunnel lining members and boring head into position in the tunnel.

Preferably, the locking mechanism is located on a jacking frame.

Preferably, the jacking frame is an adjustable jacking frame.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of die direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

Preferably, the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the pushing of die jacking mechanism on one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members at an angle of inclination of between 15 and 90 degrees above the horizontal.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment. Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

Preferably, the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism. Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

Preferably, the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

• a crane;

· rigging apparatus; and

• a rigging frame.

• a dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

Preferably, the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

Preferably, the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s).

Preferably, the locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

Preferably, the locking system is located on the force transfer member.

Preferably, the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

Preferably, the locking of the tunnel lining member into position is by means of a positive lock by the locking mechanism.

Alternatively, the tunnel lining member into position is by means of a friction lock by the locking mechanism.

Preferably, the locking mechanism is configured for locking against a preformed locking formation on said tunnel lining member. In a tenth aspect the present invention consists in a boring head for use as part of a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel in ground at a boring face, the boring head comprising:

· cutting bits mounted on a rotatable cutting head;

• a drive system for rotating the cutting head;

• a liquid feed system for providing liquid for removal of cut ground as a slurry;

• wherein the boring head is adapted and configured to provide a dedicated flow path for slurry to run through the boring head under the acceleration of gravity.

Preferably, the liquid feed system feeds liquid to impinge directly on the boring face.

Preferably, the boring head comprises guide members for guiding the flow of slurry from die boring face through the boring head.

Preferably the guide members define a conduit.

Preferably, the conduit is sealed from the drive system.

Preferably, the boring head comprises a plurality of steering rams.

Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means

"consisting at least in part of. When interpreting statements in this specification and claims which include that term, the features, prefaced by diat term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related terms such as

"comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which:

Figure 1: shows a top perspective view of a tunnelling apparatus;

Figure 2: shows a side view of a jacking rig;

Figure 3: shows a front view of a jacking rig;

Figure 4: shows a front top perspective view of a jacking rig;

Figure 5: shows a back top perspective view of a jacking rig;

Figure 6: shows a front view of a boring head;

Figure 7: shows a cutaway cross section view of a boring head;

Figure 8: shows a top perspective view of a boring head;

Figure 9: shows a back top perspective view of a tunnelling apparatus; and

Figure 10: shows a top view of a tunnelling apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT (S)

With reference to the above drawings, in which similar features are generally indicated by similar numerals, a tunnelling apparatus according to one aspect of the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 1000, and a jacking rig for use in such a tunnelling apparatus is designated by the numeral 2000.

In one embodiment now described, there is provided a tunnelling apparatus 1000 comprising a substantially cylindrical boring head 3000, and a jacking rig 2000. The tunnelling apparatus 1000 for boring a tunnel (not shown) in ground (not shown) at a boring face (not shown).

The boring head 3000 preferably includes a plurality of cutting bits 3005 rotatably mounted on a cutting head 3010; a transmission or drive system 3030 for rotating the cutting head 3010, and a liquid feed system 3020 for providing a flow of liquid (shown as arrow A in figure 8). In an alternative embodiment, the boring head could use high pressure water jets mounted on a rotating head to cut impinge upon and cut the rock at the borSing face. The liquid feed system 3020 is for cooling the cutting face and for provodog lubricant to the cutting bits 3005, and preferably provides the liquid to impinge on the boring face through spray nozzles 3025. Where water jet cutting is used instead of cutting bits, the water supply to the high pressure water jets used for cutting can also be used at least partly for conveying slurry from the boring face.

In another embodiment, the liquid feed system could provide low pressure liquid through large openings.

The liquid from the liquid feed system 3020, typically being water, is for facilitating the removal of the ground cut away by the cutting bits 3005 by combining with it to form flowable slurry. It is envisaged that the water will be provided through nozzles (not shown) to impinge on the boring face, carrying cut ground with it. The boring head further comprises four steering rams 3035 for steering the tunnelling movement of the boring head 3000 by known means.

In one embodiment, the boring head 3000 is adapted and configured to provide a dedicated flow path along the bottom of the bring head 3000 for this slurry to run through under the acceleration of gravity (i.e. without being pumped away from a sump or similar). In one embodiment the boring head is provided with guide members (not shown) that form a passage or conduit 3015 for guiding the flow of slurry from the boring face through the boring head. In one preferred embodiment, the conduit is sealed from exposure to the drive system. In this way, excess wear on the drive system caused by slurry acting as a grinding paste can be at least partially avoided or reduced.

In other embodiments, it is envisaged that a conventional closed circuit pumping system (not shown) could be used to convey the slurry from the boring face.

The jacking rig 2000 is for pushing the boring head 3000 against the boring face to bore it out into a tunnel. The jacking rig 2000 is also for pushing tunnel lining members into the tunnel behind the boring head as it bores the tunnel.

It is envisaged that the jacking rig 2000 could also provide a dedicated flow path (not shown) for slurry to run through under action of gravity. The flow path could be an extension of the conduit of the boring head.

The jacking rig 2000 comprises a jacking mechanism 200, an adjustable jacking frame 300, and a magazine mechanism 400.

The jacking mechanism 200 comprises a pair of large hydraulic rams 210, a dolly mechanism 220 and an indexing system 230. The hydraulic tarns 210 provide the pushing force to be able to push the boring head 3000 and/ or substantially cylindrical tunnel lining members 5000 against the boring face and/ or into the tunnel, as the case may be.

The hydraulic rams 210 are moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, and push at one end against the adjustable jacking frame 300, as will be described below, and which will in turn typically be secured to the ground, preferably by rock bolts, or set in a concrete foundation. At their opposed end, the hydraulic rams 210 act on a movable force transfer member 222 as will be described below.

The dolly mechanism 220 comprises a force transfer member 222, which is typically embodied as a large metal plate. The force transfer member 222 is for location behind a tunnel lining member 5000 and/ or the boring head 3000, and against which the hydraulic rams 210 of the jacking mechanism 200 push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/ or boring head.

The force transfer member 222 is at least partially supported and secured to a dolly carriage 224 that runs on a dolly guide 226. The dolly carriage 224 is lockable in position to the dolly guide 226 by means of a dolly locking mechanism 228. In one embodiment, the dolly locking mechanism 228 comprises a locking pin 229 receivable into a hole 225 in the dolly guide, to prevent movement of the dolly carriage 224 along the dolly guide 226. Preferably, the dolly carriage 224 is lockable relative to the guide 226 in a position corresponding to an extended position of the hydraulic ram 210.

The jacking mechanism 200 further comprises an indexing system 230. The indexing system 230 comprises a plurality of indexing lugs 236 located at intervals along the hydraulic rams 210, and an indexed locking system 232 associated with the force transfer member 222 of the dolly mechanism 220. The hydraulic rams 210 are received through slots 223 in the force transfer member 222. The indexed locking system 232 includes an annular member 234 for each hydraulic ram 210 that is moveable by a hydraulic cylinder 235 between a position in which the indexing lugs 236 are moveable through the slots 223, and a position in which the indexing lug 236 engage with the annular member 234 to prevent it from movement through the slot 223.

The jacking rig further comprises an adjustable jacking frame 200. The jacking mechanism 200 is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame 200. The adjustable jacking frame 200 is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the inclination of the direction in which the jacking mechanism 200 pushes, and to align the initial direction of travel of the boring head 3000.

In one embodiment, the adjustable jacking frame 200 comprises an inclination adjustment mechanism 310 including a hydraulic ram 315 that is operable (preferably remotely by means of a remote control system) to move the adjustable jacking frame 200 into a position suitable to support the jacking mechanism 100, in order to bore a tunnel at a predetermined inclination.

The expected context of use of the tunnelling apparatus 1000 means that the angle of inclination of the tunnel to be bored may range between an angle to the horizontal of between 15 and 90 degrees, more preferably between 30 and 80 degrees, and most preferably between 40 and 70 degrees.

The adjustable jacking frame 200 can also include support members 317 for supporting the adjustable jacking frame 200 at a particular inclination. The support members may be of a more permanent nature, and may be secured to the frame after it has initially been adjusted to the correct alignment.

In another preferred embodiment it is envisaged that the adjustable jacking frame 300 could also be rotatable to adjust the direction (in a horizontal plane) of push of the jacking mechanism 200. The adjustable jacking frame 200 could include a rotatable base (not shown). The base may be secured to a concrete foundation (not shown) and rotate to turn in a substantially horizontal plane. In this way, the direction of alignment of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane can be moved by rotation of the base. The base may be lockable in a particular direction.

The adjustable jacking frame 300 further comprises a jacking frame guide 320. The jacking frame guide 320 may also act as the dolly guide 224.

The jacking frame guide 320 is for at least partially supporting and guiding movement of the boring head 3000 and/or the tunnel lining members as they are being fed into the tunnel. In the context of use of the tunnelling apparatus for boring tunnels at inclinations required for boring cross cuts in mines, the requirement of a guide for guiding the boring head 3000 and/ or the tunnel lining members is expected to be important.

It will be appreciated that the weight of large steel tunnel lining members 5000 over a tunnel length of some 100 metres, as well as a boring head 3000, may be appreciable. Frictional forces can be expected to act against this weight, but may not always hold it in the tunnel. For reasons of safety, the adjustable jacking frame therefore also includes a locking mechanism 330 for preventing movement of the inserted boring head 3000 and/or tunnel lining members 5000 out of an inclined tunnel after they have been pushed in. In one embodiment, a rotatable lug 340 is provided that rotates between a stowed position out of the way, and an interference position in which it is in the path of movement of the tunnel lining members 5000 and/ or boring head 3000 to positively block or lock their movement out of the bottom of the tunnel. It is envisaged that the locking mechanism could co-operate with locking formations (such as lugs, recesses or grooves) on the tunnel lining members, or on the lower edge or edges of the tunnel lining members.

In an alternative embodiment, it is envisaged that the locking mechanism could clamp around the outer circumference of die tunnel lining members to lock it in a friction lock or in a positive lock, and/ or could expand outwardly to engage an inner surface of the tunnel lining members to hold it it in a friction lock or in a positive lock.

It will be appreciated that other locking mechanism may be used of a wide variety of configurations and sizes, depending on the expected ground conditions, the size of the tunnel lining members, etc.

The jacking rig 2000 further comprises a magazine mechanism 400. The magazine mechanism is adapted and configured for temporary storage of at least one tunnel lining member 5000 in a loaded position while a previous tunnel lining member is being inserted into the tunnel, and for convenient loading of the stored tunnel lining member 5000 into a tunnelling position in which it may be inserted into the tunnel. In a preferred embodiment, the loading of the tunnel lining members 5000 may be automated by the use of a controller (not shown), which is directed by software that is configured to cause the control of the movement of parts of the magazine mechanism 400 to automate the loading of the tunnel lining members 5000 into the magazine, and to automate the loading of the tunnel lining members 5000 onto the jacking mechanism 200, where it can be jacked.

It is envisaged that the magazine mechanism 400 can be reconfigurable to be mounted to either side of the jacking mechanism, and to store and/ or load the tunnel lining members 5000 from either side of the jacking mechanism 200, or possibly even both sides in an alternating fashion (although this is not shown in the embodiments). This feature will provide the additional convenience of being able to more easily align the tunnelling apparatus 10000 where it is only accessible from one side (for example where it is at the end of a development end). It may also assist in speeding up the process of loading the tunnel lining members 5000 into the magazine mechanism 400, and from the magazine mechanism 400 into the tunnelling position.

In the context of use of the invention to bore mine cross-cuts, the speed of development is critical. Should additional time be require between each tunnel lining member insertion to rig the next one into place, this could result in a lot of time being wasted. Accordingly the use of a magazine mechanism 400 to facilitate the storage and loading of tunnel lining members 5000 for insertion into the tunnel is expected to be critical.

In one embodiment, the magazine mechanism 400 comprises a storage rack 410 on which one or more tunnel lining members may be stored, and a moving mechanism 420 utilising a hydraulic ram 422. The moving mechanism 420 is for moving a tunnel lining member 5000 between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

In the embodiment shown, a loading apparatus 430 in die form of a crane 432 is shown for loading a tunnel lining member 5000 into a loaded position. Another embodiment, it is envisaged that a rigging frame (not shown) and rigging apparatus such as a block and tackle (not shown) could also be used.

The indexing system 230 cooperates with the dolly locking mechanism 228 as follows.

The dolly carriage 224 is movable on the dolly guide 226 to move with the force transfer member between a retracted position and an extended position. The dolly locking mechanism 228 can lock the position of the dolly carriage 224 in its extended position.

Initially the indexing locking system will be locked to engage against the lowest indexing lug 236a (shown in figure 1). The hydraulic rams 210 move to their extended position, thereby pushing the force transfer member 222 upwardly, and pushing the boring head and or tunnel lining member upwardly at an inclined angle.

Once the hydraulic rams 210 have moved to their extended position, the dolly locking mechanism 228 is locked to prevent movement of the dolly carriage 224. The indexing locking system 232 is unlocked to allow movement of the indexing downwards lugs 236 through the slots 223. The next lowest indexing lug is then locked from movement upward through the slot 223 by locking the indexing locking system 232. The rotatable lug 340 of the locking mechanism (for positively preventing the tunnel lining members 5000 from moving back out of the tunnel) is then moved to tits interference position. The dolly locking mechanism 228 is then unlocked, and the force transfer member 222 is moved downwardly, until there is enough space for the next tunnel lining member to be moved from its loaded position on the storage rack 410 of the magazine mechanism 400 to its tunnelling position. The force transfer member 222 is then moved upwardly to engage with the new tunnel lining member 5000 (which is supported on the jacking frame guide 320 at the correct angle and inclination). The tunnel lining member 5000 may then be pushed into the tunnel as it is bored out.

Similarly, when the indexing locking system 232 is in its unlocked condition, the dolly carriage 224 is lockable by the dolly locking mechanism 228 in its extended position to lock movement of the force transfer member 222, while the hydraulic ram is movable to a position in which another of the indexing lugs is engageable by the locking system, to thereby enable the hydraulic ram to push the tunnel lining members and/ or boring head further into the tunnel being bored.

Using a tunnelling apparatus as described above, it is envisaged that a cross cut tunnel could be cut in a n underground mine. It is envisaged that at the inclinations the tunnelling apparatus is to be used at, the flow of slurry from the boring face need not be pumped away from the boring face. Instead, the slurry could be drained through existing drainage channels found in underground mines, to a low point in the mine. At this stage, the slurry could be pumped to the surface, or the ground (at least mostly) separated from the liquid by addition of a flocculant. The liquid can then either be reused or pumped out of the mine. The separated ground can also either be pumped out as thickened slurry, or used for other purposes in the mine, such as using it as part of a backfill composition.

In order to bore an inclined cross-cut tunnel using the tunnelling apparatus 1000, the following steps are envisaged. Initially the adjustable jacking frame 300 will be secured to the ground, or at least braced against movement. The jacking mechanism 200 will be mounted on the adjustable jacking frame 300. The inclination adjustment mechanism 310 will then be used (preferably by remote control) to adjust the angle at which the hydraulic rams push the force transfer member 222 at. The boring head 3000 could be mounted on the jacking mechanism 200 before or after the angle of inclination has been adjusted. The horizontal component of the direction of push of the hydraulic rams could be adjusted before or after mounting of the boring head and jacking rig.

After adjustment of the adjustable jacking frame, it can be braced in a more permanent fashion. The cutting head 3010 of the boring head 3000 is then actuated to rotate, while the jacking rig 2000 is used to push the boring head 3000 against the boring face to bore the tunnel. The magazine mechanism may be installed before or after installation of the boring head, depending on the space available.

In this way, it is envisaged that cross cut tunnel may be bored accurately at steep inclinations in underground mines. The apparatuses and methods described above allow for a relatively fast and safe installation of such tunnels, while simultaneously restricting ingress of gasses from the surrounding rock. Where such methods are used for the installation of emergency access ways, the tunnel lining members can be installed with preexisting ladder rungs secured to their inner surface, saving time in having to install these after the fact. It is also envisaged that the pipe jacking system, with or without the magazine, will be configured in a compact manner, and preferably with a low height in order to be installed in mining development and working areas, which are typically restricted in their available space. Further, it is envisaged that the pipe jacking mechanism will be of a modular construction that is composed of smaller components that may be easily loaded into mine cages for transport underground, and may be conveniently assembled underground in such restricted space areas.

Typically, pipe jacking operations are set up in a vertical shaft that has been created to ensure that the pipe jacking mechanism can fit. In a mining-type environment, additional challenges are provided by the presence of what may be a low hanging wall or roof, as well as more restricted space in tunnels and working environments.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

Although the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and/or improvements may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Claims

A method of cutting a cross cut tunnel in an underground mine, comprising the steps of:

i) providing a tunnelling apparatus comprising a boring head and a jacking ti ;

ii) pushing die boring head direcdy or indirecdy against a boring face to bore a tunnel; and

iii) pushing, by means of the jacking rig, cylindrical tunnel lining members into said bored tunnel as the tunnel is bored, to line said tunnel.

A method as claimed in claim 1 wherein the jacking rig comprises at least one hydraulic ram and the boring head is initially pushed directly by the hydraulic ram of the jacking rig against die boring face to bore an initial section of tunnel.

A method as claimed in claim 2 wherein after boring the initial section of tunnel, the boring head is then pushed indirectly via the hydraulic rams of the jacking rig acting on the tunnel lining members to push the boring head against the boring face.

A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the method includes the step of aligning the boring head at an inclined angle to bore an inclined tunnel.

A method as claimed in claim 4 wherein the inclination angle is above the horizontal such that die advancing direction of the boring head includes an upward component of direction.

A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the tunnelling apparatus is a micro tunnel boring machine.

A method as claimed in claims 4 or 5 wherein the step of aligning the boring head at an inclined angle includes the steps of:

a) providing an adjustable jacking frame;

b) mounting the boring head on said adjustable jacking frame; and c) adjusting movement of the adjustable jacking frame to align the angle of inclination of the boring head.

A method as claimed in any one of claims 4, 5 or 7 wherein the angle of inclination is between 15 and 90 degrees.

9. A method as claimed in any one of claims 4, 5 or 7 wherein the angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

10. A method as claimed in any one of claims 4, 5 or 7 wherein the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

11. A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises:

a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground at a boring face;

the jacking rig comprising a jacking mechanism suitable for pushing one selected from:

the boring h ad against the boring face to tunnel into die ground and tunnel lining members into the tunnel bored by the boring head as it bores d e tunnel; and

an adjustable jacking frame that is configured and adapted to allow adjustment of the angle of inclination at which the jacking mechanism pushes one or more selected from the tunnel lining members or the boring head.

12. A method as claimed in claims 7 or 11 wherein d e adjustable jacking frame allows for adjustment of the direction in which the jacking mechanism pushes in tbree limeneione.

13. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7, 11 or 12 wherein the jacldng mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

14. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7, 11 to 13 wherein the adjustable jacldng frame is remotely controllable for adjustment of the angle at which the jacking mechanism is to push.

15. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7, 11 to 14 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

1 . A method as claimed in claim 15 wherein die inclination adjustment

mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

7. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7, 11 to 16 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

18. A method as claimed in claim 17 wherein the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

19. A method as claimed in any one of claims 7, 11 to 18 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position atter they have been pushed into die tunnel by the hydraulic rams of the jacking rig.

20. A method as claimed in claim 19 wherein the frame locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

21. A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

22. A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member.

23. A mediod as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

24. A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 70 whp.r^p.in the. tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporar storage and automated loading of at least one tunnc) lining member.

25. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

26. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

27. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 26 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of a tunnel lining member.

28. A method as claimed in claim 27 wherein d e storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

29. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 28 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

30. A method as claimed in claim 29 wherein the moving mechanism

comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

31. A method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 30 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

32. A method as claimed in claim 31 wherein the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

a rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

33. A method as claimed in claim 11 wherein the jacking mechanism

comprises:

the said at least one hydraulic ram of the jacking rig, the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

a dolly mechanism.

34. A method as claimed in claim 33 wherein the dolly mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking- mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/or boring head.

35. A method as claimed in claim 33 or 34 wherein the dolly mechanism

comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage for supporting the force transfer member.

36. A method as claimed in claim 35 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

37. A method as claimed in claim 36 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

38. A method as claimed in claim 37 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

39. A method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 38 wherein the carriage is lockable relative to the dotty guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

40. A mediod as claimed in claim 11 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

41. A method as claimed in claim 40 wh erein the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

42. A method as claimed in claim 41 -wbeiein the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

43. A method as claimed in claim 42 wherein the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

44. A method as claimed in claim 42 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

45. A method as claimed in claim 42 wherein die indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

46. A method as claimed in claim 42 wherein die indexing locking system comprises at least one slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

47. A method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 39 wherein the dolly guide is die adjustable jacking frame.

48. A tunnelling apparatus comprising:

a boring head adapted for boring a tunnel through ground at a boring face;

a slurry feed system for providing liquid for removal of cut ground as a slurry; wherein the tunnelling apparatus is adapted and configured to provide a dedicated flow path for slurry to run out.

49. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 48 wherein the tunnelling

apparatus comprises an adjustable jacking frame.

50. A turmeffing apparatus as claimed in claim 49 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head.

51. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claims 49 or 50 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least two dimensions.

52. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claims 49 or 50 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

53. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 52 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head.

54. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed ia any one of claims 19 to 53 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

55. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 54 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

56. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 55 wherein the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

57. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 55 or 56 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

58. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 55 to 57 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts secured in a foundation.

59. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 53 wherein d e adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

60. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 53 wherein die adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

61. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 53 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

62. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 61 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

63. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 62 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

64. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 63 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

65. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 64 wherein the inclination

adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

66. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 63 wherein die adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame, guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

67. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in. claim 66 wherein the angle of

inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

68. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 67 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members ia position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

69. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 69 wherein the frame locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

70. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 69 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of at least one said tunnel lining member.

71. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 69 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one said tunnel lining member.

72. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 69 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one said tunnel lining member.

73. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 69 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one said tunnel lining member.

74. A tannelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 70 to 7 wherein the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one said tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

75. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one o claims 70 to 74 wherein the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/ or load at least said one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

76. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 70 to 75 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack ada te and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

77. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 76 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a said tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

78. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 70 to 77 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a said tunnel linin member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

79. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 78 wherein the moving

mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

80. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 76 or 77 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a said tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

81. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 80 wherein the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

rigging appaidLua; and

a rigging frame.

82. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 64 to 81 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises:

at least one hydraulic tarn for pushing the tunnel lining members into the tunnel behind the boring head, the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

a doll mechanism.

83. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 82 wherein the dolly mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a said tunnel lining member and/ or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/or boring head.

84. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 83 wherein the dolly mechanism comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage for supporting the force transfer member.

85. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 84 wherein the carriage is

lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

86. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 85 wherein the carriage is

lockable in position rektive to the dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

87. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 86 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

88. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 85 to 87 wherein the carriage is lockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechamsm.

89. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed n any one of claims 83 to 88 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

90. A tunnelEng apparatus as claimed in claim 89 wherein the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

9 . A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 90 wherein the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

92. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 91 wherein the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

93. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 91 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

94. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 91 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

95. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 91 wherein the indexing locking system comprises at least one slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

96. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 84 wherein the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

97. A tunnelling apparatus comprising:

a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground;

a jacking mechanism for pushing tunnel lining members into a tunnel behind die boring head;

a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for the storage of tunnel lining members and convenient loading of the tunnel lining members into a suitable position for being pushed into said tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

98. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 97 wherein the magazine

mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

99. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 97 or claim 98 wherein die magazine mechanism is reconfigurablc to stoic and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

100. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 99 wherein die magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of a tunnel lining member.

101. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 100 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind die boring head.

102. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 101 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

03. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 102 wherein the moving mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

104. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 100 wherein the magazine

mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

105. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 105 wherein the loading

apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

106. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 105 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises an adjustable jacking frame.

107. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 106 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of an inclination of one or more selected from

the jacking mechanism;

tnc boring licftd; nd

the magazine mechanism.

108. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 106 or claim 107 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of an upwards inclination.

109. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 108 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of d e upwards inclination at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

110. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 108 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

111. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 108 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

112. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 106 to 111 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

113. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 106 to 112 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

11 . A tunnelling apparatus as ckimed in any one of claims 100 to 113 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

115. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 114 wherein the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

116. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 106 to 115 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and die tunnel lining members.

117. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 116 wherein the tunnel lining members are substantially cylindrical.

1 8. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 117 wherein the boring head is substantially cylindrical.

119. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 106 to 118 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding longitudinal movement of one or more selected from die boring head and die tunnel lining members.

120. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 119 wherein the angle of

inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable Lo facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

121. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 120 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and die tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

122. A tunnelling apparatus as ckimed in claim 121 wherein the frame locking mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

123. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 97 to 122 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises:

at least one hydraulic ram, the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and a dolly mechanism.

124. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 123 wherein the dolly

mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a said tunnel lining member and/or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/ or boring head.

125. A txinnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 124 wherein the dolly

mechanism comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage for supporting the force transfer member.

126. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 125 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

127. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 126 wherein the carriage is lockable in position lelaiive Lo die dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

128. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 127 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

129. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in an one of claims 126 to 128 wherein die carriage is lockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to die extended position of a said hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

130. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 123 wherein the jacking

mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

131. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 124 to 130 wherein the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

132. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 131 wherein the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

133. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 132 wherein d e indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

134. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 132 wherein the indexing locldng system is located on the dolly mechanism.

135. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 132 the indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

136. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 132 wherein the indexing locking system comprises at least one slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

137. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 125 wherein the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame.

138. A tunnelling apparatus comprising:

a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground; and

a jacking rig compiiaing:

a jacking mechanism suitable for pushing tunnel lining members into the tunnel bored by the boring head as it bores the tunnel, and

a jacking frame comprising a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of said tunnel lining members as they are being pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

139. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 138 wherein the jacking frame is an adjustable jacking frame.

140. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 139 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head.

141. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 139 or 140 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least two dimensions.

142. A Inonnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 139 or 140 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the, adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

143. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 142 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

144. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 142 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

45. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 144 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

146. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 145 wherein the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

147. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 145 or 146 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

148. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 145 to 147 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of secuting bolts secured in a foundation.

149. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 143 to 148 wherein the adjustable jacking flame is configured and. adapted Lu provide for die adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

150. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 143 to 148 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

1 1. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 142 to 148 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

152. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 151 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

153. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 152 145 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

154. A LunueUiiig apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 148 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

155. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 154 wherein the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

156. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 155 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

157. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 139 to 156 wherein the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

158. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 157 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or mote selected from d e boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

159. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 158 wherein the locking

mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunneL

160. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 159 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a ainnel lining member.

161. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 159 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member.

162. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 159 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

163. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 159 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

164. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 160 to 163 wherein the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

1 5. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 160 to 164 wherein the magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

166. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 161 to 165 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

167. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a said tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

168. A tannelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 160 to 167 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a said tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

69. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 168 wherein the moving mechanism complines at least one hydraulic ram.

170. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 166 or 167 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a said tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

171. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 170 wherein the loading

apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

172. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 138 to 171 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises:

at least one hydraulic ram, the hydraulic ram of die jacking mechanism being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

a dolly mechanism.

173. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 172 wherein the dolly

mechanism comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/ or boring head.

174. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 173 wherein the dolly

175. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 174 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

176. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 175 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

177. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 176 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

178. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 175 to 177 wherein d e carriage is lockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of a said hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

179. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 172 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

180. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 173 to 179 wherein the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

181. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 180 wherein the indexing system comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

182. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 181 wherein the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

183. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 181 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

184. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 181 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

185. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim. 181 wherein the indexing locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

186. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 174 wherein the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

187. A tunnelling apparatus comprising:

a boring head for boring a tunnel into ground,

a jacking rig comprising:

a jacking mechanism comprising at least one hydraulic ram movable between a retracted position and an extended position, for pushing tunnel lining members and/or the boring head into the tunnel being bored, a dolly mechanism comprising:

a force transfer member on which the hydraulic ram acts to indirectly push the tunnel lining members into the tunnel being bored; and

a dolly guide and a dolly carriage mountable on the dolly guide in a movable fashion, the dolly guide securable to die force transfer member to be movable with the force transfer member to be movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and a dolly locking mechanism for locking th e position of the dolly carriage in its extended position;

an indexing system for securing the hydraulic rams to the force transfer member in a plurality of positions, the indexing system comprising:

a plurality of indexing lugs associated with one selected from die hydraulic ram and the force transfer member; and an indexing locking system associated with one selected from the other one of said hydraulic ram and d e force transfer member, die jacking mechanism and the dolly mechanism, the indexing locking system being reconfigur ble between:

a locked condition in which the indexing locking system is locked against one of the indexing lugs to lock engagement of the force transfer member with d e hydraulic ram so diat they move together between their respective retracted position and extended position; and an unlocked condition in which die hydraulic ram and the force transfer member are movable relative to each other; whereby, when the indexing locking system is in its unlocked condition, the dolly carriage is lockable by the dolly locking mechanism in its extended position to lock the force transfer member, while the hydraulic ram is movable to a position in which another of the indexing lugs is engageable by the indexing locking system, to thereby enable the hydraulic ram to push the tunnel lining members and/ or boring head further into the tunnel being bored.

188. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 187 wherein the jacking rig further comprises an adjustable jacking frame.

189. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 188 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted or mountable on the adjustable jacking frame.

190. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 88 or claim 189 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

191. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 190 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head.

192. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 191 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of die jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

193. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 192 wherein, the rotatable base is securable to d e ground.

194. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 193 wherein the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

195. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 193 or 194 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

196. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 3 to 195 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts secured in a foundation.

197. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 196 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

198. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 196 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

1 9. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 196 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

200. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 199 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

201. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 200 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

202. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 201 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

203. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in. claim 202 wherein the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

204. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 203 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

205. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 204 wherein the angle of

inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

206. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 188 to 205 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism.

207. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 206 wherein the locking

mechanism comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining member^'s out of the tunnel.

208. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 207 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

209. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 207 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member.

210. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 207 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

211. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 207 wherein the tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

212. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 208 to 211 wherein the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

213. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 208 to 212 wherein the magazine mechanism is reconfigurablc to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

214. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 208 to 213 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

215. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 214 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a said tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring bead.

216. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 208 to 215 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

217. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 216 wherein the moving

mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

218. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 214 or 215 wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

219. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in claim 218 wherein the loading

apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

220. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of ckims 187 to 21 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

221. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 220 wherein the dolly carriage is lockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

222. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 221 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

223. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 222 wherein the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

224. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 223 wherein, the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

225. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 223 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

226. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 225 wherein the indexing locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one mdexing lug.

227. A tunnelling apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 187 to 226 wherein the dolly guide is the adjustable jacking frame guide.

228. A jacking tig for a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel into ground with a boring head, the jacking rig comprising:

a jacking mechanism for pushing at least one selected from a tunnel lining member and said boring head into the tunnel as it is bored, and

an adjustable jacking frame for adjusting the direction in which the jacldng mechanism pushes the tunnel lining member, wherein the adjustable jacldng frame is adjustable to provide for at least the adjustment of the angle of inclination of one or more selected from the jacldng mechanism and the boring head.

229. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 228 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

230. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 228 or claim 229 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacldng mechanism and the boring head.

231. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 229 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in the horizontal plane.

232. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 231 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground

233. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 232 wherein the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

234. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 232 or 233 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

235. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 232 to 234 wherein the

rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts secured in a foundation.

236. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 230 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mec anism and the boring head at an angle of between 15 and 90 degrees.

237. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 230 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and die boring head at an angle of between 30 and 80 degrees.

238. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 230 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees.

239. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 238 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

240. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 239 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

241. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 240 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

242. A. jacking rig as claimed in claim 241 wherein the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

243. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 242 wherein the adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

244. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 243 wherein the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate the adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

245. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 244 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

246. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 245 wherein the locking mechanism

comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members out of the tunnel.

247. A jac!dng rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 246 wherein the jacking rig comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

248. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 246 wherein the

tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for storage of at least one tunnel lining member.

249. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 246 wherein the

tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

250. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 246 wherein the

tunnelling apparatus comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of at least one tunnel lining member.

251. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 247 to 250 wherein the

magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism,

252. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 247 to 251 wherein the

magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

253. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 247 to 252 -wherein the magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporal)⁷ storage and automated loading of a tunnel lining member.

254. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 253 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

255. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 253 to 254 wherein, the magazine mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

256. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 255 wherein the moving mechanism

comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

257. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 253 to 256 wherein the

magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage tack.

258. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 257 wherein the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

a crane;

rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

259. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 228 to 258 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises:

at least one hydraulic ram, the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; and

a dolly mechanism.

260. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 259 wherein the dolly mechanism

comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/ or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/or boring head.

261. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 260 wherein the dolly mechanism

262. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 261 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

263. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 262 wherein the carriage is lockable in position relative to the dolly guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

264. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 263 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

265. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 262 to 264 wherein the

carriage is lockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of the hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

266. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 259 wherein the jacking mechanism

comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

267. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 260 to 266 wherein the

hydraulic rams of die jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

268. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 267 wherein the indexing system

comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

269. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 268 wherein the indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

270. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 268 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

271. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 268 wherein the indexing locking system is located on die force transfer member.

272. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 268 wherein the indexing locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

273. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 261 wherein the dolly guide is the

adjustable jacking frame guide.

274. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine, said method comprising the steps of:

providing a tunnel boring head to cut matter from a boring face to form a tunnel; boring a tunnel widi said tunnel boring head at a boring face to cut matter from the boring face;

a. stream of liquid at or towards the boring face to combine with the cut matter in a slurry; and

draining the slurry to flow to a low level in said mine; and

pumping at least part of the slurry out of the mine.

275. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in claim 274 wherein the tunnel boring head comprises a rotating cutting head having a plurality of cutting bits disposed on it.

276. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in claim 274 or claim 275 wherein the tunnel boring head is pushed into the bored tunnel by the action of at least one hydraulic ram pushing it directly or indirecdy into the tunnel.

277. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in any one of claims 274 to 276 wherein the stream of liquid is provided in a manner to impinge on at least part of the boring face.

278. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in any one of claims 274 to 277 wherein the mediod includes the step of adding floccuknt to separate the cut matter from the liquid in the slurry.

279. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in claim 278 wherein the method includes die step of pumping one or more selected from the separated cut matter and the liquid out of the mine.

280. A method of cutting a cross-cut tunnel in an underground mine as claimed in claim 274 wherein the method includes the step of using one or more selected from at least part of the slurry and the separated cut matter and the liquid for creating a backfill composition.

281. A method of jacking one or more selected from tunnel lining members and a boring head into a bored tunnel or against a boring face using a jacking rig, the method comprising the steps of:

adjusting at least the angle of inclination of the direction in which a jacking rig can push one or more selected from the tunnel lining members and the boring head;

pushing the tunnel lining members or the boring head into the tunnel or against the bore face using the jacking rig.

282. A method as claimed in claim 281 wherein the jacking rig includes an adjustable jacking frame that allows for automated adjustment of the angle of inclination.

283. A method as claimed in claim 281 or 282 wherein the mediod includes the step of adjusting the direction in which the jacking rig can push in the substantially horizontal plane.

284. A method as claimed in any one of claims 281 to 283 wherein the method includes the step of aligmng the boring head at an inclined angle to bore an inclined tunneL

285. A method as claimed in claim 284 wherein the step of aligning the boring head at an inclined angle includes the steps of:

providing an adjustable jacking frame;

mounting the boring head on said adjustable jacking frame, and

adjusting inclination of the adjustable jacking frame to set the angle of inclination of the boring head.

286. A method as claimed in any one of claims 281 to 285 wherein the angle of inclination is between 15 and 90 degrees.

287. A method as claimed in any one of claims 281 to 285 wherein the angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

288. A method as claimed in any one of claims 281 to 285 wherein the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

289. A jacking tig for a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel into ground using a boring head, the jacking rig comprising:

a jacking mechanism for pushing at least one or more selected from a tunnel lining member and a boring head into the tunnel as it is bored, and

a locking mechanism for locking said one or more selected from d e tunnel lining member and the boring head into position in the tunnel.

290. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 289 wherein the locking mechanism is located on a jacking frame.

291. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 290 wherein the jacking frame is an

adjustable jacking frame.

292. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 291 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the direction in which jacking mechanism pushes in at least three dimensions.

293. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 291 or 292 wherein the adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the adjustment of the upwards inclination of one or more selected from the jacking mechanism and the boring head.

294. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 293 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame comprises a rotatable base for adjustment of the direction of push of the jacking mechanism in d e horizontal plane.

295. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 294 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground.

296. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 295 wherein the rotatable base is securable to a concrete foundation.

297. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 295 or 296 wherein the rotatable base is securable to the ground by means of securing bolts.

298. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 295 to 297 wherein the

299. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 298 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame is configured and adapted to provide for the pushing of the jacking mechanism on one selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members at an angle of inclination of between 15 and 90 degrees above the horizontal.

300. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 299 wherein d e angle of inclination is between 30 and 80 degrees.

301. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 299 wherein the angle of inclination is between 60 and 70 degrees.

302. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 301 wherein the jacking mechanism is mounted on the adjustable jacking frame.

303. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 302 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame is remotely controllable for adjustment.

304. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 300 to 303 wherein the adjustable jacking frame includes an inclination adjustment mechanism.

305. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 304 wherein the inclination adjustment mechanism comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

306. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 305 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame comprises a jacking frame guide for guiding movement of one or mote selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

307. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 306 wherein the angle of inclination of the jacking frame guide is adjustable to facilitate th e adjustment of the angle of inclination of said one or more selected from the boring head and the tunnel lining members.

308. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 291 to 307 wherein the

adjustable jacking frame comprise a frame locking mechanism for locking one or more selected from the boring head and the runnel lining members in position after they have been pushed into the tunnel by the jacking mechanism.

309. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 308 wherein the locking mechanism

comprises a rotatable lug that rotates between a stowed position and an interference position in which it prevents movement of said one selected from the boring head and the tunnel Hning members out of the tunnel.

310. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 309 wherein the jacking rig comprises a magazine mechanism adapted and configured for temporary storage and loading of a tunnel lining member.

311. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 309 wherein the

312. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 309 wherein the

313. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 309 wherein the

314. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 310 to 313 wherein the magazine mechanism is adapted and configured to store and/or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least one or more sides of the jacking mechanism.

315. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 310 to 314 wherein the

magazine mechanism is reconfigurable to store and/ or load at least one tunnel lining member from at least two sides of the jacking mechanism.

316. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 310 to 315 wherein the

magazine mechanism comprises a storage rack adapted and configured for temporary storage and automated loading of a tunnel lining member.

317. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 316 wherein the storage rack is adapted and configured for allowing movement of a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position in which it is configured for being pushed into the tunnel behind the boring head.

318. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 316 or 317 wherein the magazine

mechanism comprises a moving mechanism for moving a tunnel lining member between a loaded position and a tunnelling position.

319. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 318 wherein the moving mechanism

comprises at least one hydraulic ram.

320. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 316 to 319 wherein the

magazine mechanism comprises a loading apparatus for loading a tunnel lining member into a loaded position on the storage rack.

321. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 320 wherein the loading apparatus is one or more selected from:

a ctane;

rigging apparatus; and

a rigging frame.

322. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 321 wherein the jacking mechanism comprises:

a dolly mechanism.

323. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 322 wherein the dolly mechanism

comprises a force transfer member for location behind a tunnel lining member and/ or the boring head, and against which the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism push against to transfer force to the tunnel lining member and/or oring head.

324. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 323 wherein the dolly mechanism

comprises a carriage movable on a dolly guide, said carriage fot supporting the force transfer member.

325. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 324 wherein the carriage is Iockable in position relative to the dolly guide.

326. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 325 wherein the carriage is Iockable in position relative to the doEy guide by a dolly locking mechanism.

327. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 326 wherein the dolly locking mechanism comprises a locking pin receivable in a hole in the dolly guide.

328. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 325 to 327 wherein the carriage is Iockable relative to the dolly guide in a position corresponding to the extended position of die hydraulic ram of the jacking mechanism.

329. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 322 wherein the jacking mechanism

comprises a plurality of hydraulic rams.

330. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 323 to 329 wherein the hydraulic rams of the jacking mechanism are securable to the force transfer member in a variety of positions by means of an indexing system.

331. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 330 wherein the indexing system

comprises an indexing locking system securable to indexing lugs.

332. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 330 wherein die indexing lugs are located on the hydraulic ram(s) of the jacking mechanism.

333. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 330 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the dolly mechanism.

334. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 330 wherein the indexing locking system is located on the force transfer member.

335. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 330 wherein the indexing locking system comprises slideable annular member for engagement against at least one indexing lug.

336. A jacking rig as claimed in claim 324 wherein the dolly guide is the

adjustable jacking frame guide.

337. A jacking rig as claimed in any one of claims 289 to 336 wherein the locking of the tunnel lining member into position is by means of a positive lock by the locking mechanism.

338. Alternatively, the tunnel lining member into position is by means of a friction lock by the locking mechanism.

339. Preferably, the locking mechanism is configured for locking against a preformed locking formation on said tunnel lining member.

340. A boring head for use as part of a tunnelling apparatus for boring a tunnel in ground at a boring face, the boring head comprising:

cutting bits mounted on a rotatable cutting head;

a drive system for rotating the cutting head;

a liquid feed system for providing liquid for removal of cut ground as a slurry; wherein the boring head is adapted and configured to provide a dedicated flow path for slurry to run through the boring head under the acceleration of gravity.

341. A boring head as claimed in claim 340 wherein the liquid feed system feeds liquid to impinge directly o the boring face.

342. A boring head as claimed in clai 340 or 341 wherein the boring head comprises guide members for guiding the flow of slurry from the boring face through the boring head.

343. A boring head as claimed in claim 342 wherein the guide members define a conduit.

344. A boring head as claimed in claim 343 wherein the conduit is sealed from the drive system.

345. A boring head as claimed in any one of claims 340 to 344 wherein the boring head comprises a plurality of steering rams.

346. A tunnelling apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by any one or more of accompanying Figures 1, 9 and 10.

347. A jacking rig for a tunnelling apparatus, the jacking rig substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by any one or more of accompanying Figures 2 to 5.

348. A boring head for use as part of a tunnelling apparatus, the boring head substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by any one or more of accompanying Figures 6 to 8.