Tunnel Boring Machine Cost: New vs Used Prices (2026)
We track tunnel boring machine cost trends so you can stay current whether you’re buying, selling, or benchmarking a deal.
A tunnel boring machine (TBM) typically costs $10 million to $100+ million in 2026 for the machine only. Small utility-sized TBMs often land around $10–$25M, while large metro/highway machines commonly run $50–$100M+.
Pricing swings with the shield/face-support setup (EPB screw conveyor vs slurry circuit), the backup gantries/“system” scope, and whether you’re spec’ing double-shield/gripper features like a segment erector.
- Tunnel boring machine cost: $10M–$25M (utility) | $50M–$100M+ (large transit)
- Key value factors: EPB vs slurry face-support system + backup gantries/“system” scope + double-shield/gripper segment erector package
Understanding Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs)
Tunnel Boring Machines are key in today's construction. They affect tunnel digging costs and overall project expenses. Let's dive into the world of TBMs and their role in construction.
What is a Tunnel Boring Machine?
A TBM is a big machine for digging tunnels. It can go through different types of soil and rock. The cost of TBMs varies, from $5 million to $100 million, based on size and features.
Common Uses of TBMs
TBMs are used in many projects, such as:
- Underground transportation systems
- Water and sewage infrastructure
- Mining operations
- Oil and gas pipelines
These machines are used in about 60% of tunnel projects worldwide. The global TBM market is worth $5 billion to $7 billion each year. It's expected to grow by 5% to 7% in the next five years.
Key Components of a TBM
Knowing the parts of a TBM helps understand its costs:
| Component | Function | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Head | Excavates soil and rock | Significant factor in tunneling equipment price |
| Conveyor System | Removes excavated material | Affects tunnel excavation cost |
| Thrust System | Propels the machine forward | Influences overall tunnel construction cost |
| Support Systems | Stabilizes tunnel walls | Impacts long-term project expenses |
These parts work together to make tunneling efficient and cost-effective. TBMs are vital for building modern infrastructure.
Factors Influencing Tunnel Boring Machine Cost
The cost of tunnel machinery changes a lot based on several important factors. The size of the tunnel is a big factor, with bigger tunnels costing more. How complex the project is also affects the price of tunnel excavation equipment.
What the ground is like also matters a lot. Short tunnels in good ground might cost millions. But, if the ground is hard to work with, costs can go up to hundreds of thousands or even millions per meter. The size of the tunnel's cross-section also plays a role, with bigger areas needing more money.
Choosing the right TBM is key, even more so in tough places like fault zones or soft rock. Sometimes, other methods like the New Australian Tunnelling Method (NATM) might be better than TBMs.
Other things that affect the cost of tunnel machinery include:
- Who made the TBM and their reputation
- How important the project is
- What the market is like and how much demand there is
- How long it takes to get the equipment
- What it costs to fix up used TBMs
Adding to the cost are things like following environmental rules and insurance. Labor costs usually make up 20% to 30% of the total cost. When looking at the cost of underground boring machines, it's important to think about all these factors together. This way, you can make sure your project is done well and doesn't cost too much.
New Tunnel Boring Machine Prices
The cost of a new tunnel boring machine can vary a lot. Small TBMs start at around $5 million. On the other hand, bigger models can cost over $30 million. The average price is about $15 million, which greatly affects the cost of digging tunnels.
Price Ranges for Leading TBM Brands
Top makers offer different prices to fit different needs:
| Manufacturer | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Herrenknecht AG | $5 million - $30 million |
| The Robbins Company | $10 million - $40 million |
| Wirth GmbH | $20 million - $100+ million |
Additional Costs
There are extra costs beyond the initial price. These include shipping, setting up, and training the crew. For instance, the Hampton Roads Expansion Project's TBM cost $70 million. This included construction, shipping, and assembly costs.
Custom-made TBMs and Pricing
Custom TBMs for specific projects are pricier. They're made for unique conditions or tunnel needs. This can raise costs but might also make the project more efficient and save money in the long run.
Financing options like leasing, loans, and rentals can help with the high costs of TBMs. Banks, leasing companies, and government loans offer funding. But, private lenders might charge more interest for these special machines.
Used Tunnel Boring Machine Costs
Used tunnel boring machines are a cost-effective choice compared to new ones. Prices vary, but there are many options available. For example, you can find Lovat TBMs from 1975, 1986, 1999, and 2009. These machines come in sizes from 100 to 159 inches, meeting different project needs.
When looking at used TBMs, remember to consider extra costs. Refurbishment, which can take months, is often needed. This adds to the cost, but used TBMs are generally cheaper than new ones. This makes them a good choice for projects on a tight budget.
Choosing high-quality, affordable components can lower the operating cost of TBMs. For instance, Litian offers TBM cutters at about 30% less than foreign brands. These cutters last as long as, or even longer than, the best foreign brands. This can help save money in the long run.
| Aspect | Litian TBM Cutters | Foreign Equivalents |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 30% lower | Standard market price |
| Lifespan | Similar or exceeding | Industry standard |
| Patents | 16 national patents | Varies by manufacturer |
| Services | Complete range | Varies by manufacturer |
While used TBMs save money, it's key to have the right support and maintenance. This is even more important if the original maker isn't involved. By considering these points, project managers can make smart choices about their TBM investments.
Tunnel Boring Machine Cost: Size Matters
The size of a tunnel boring machine greatly affects its cost. Prices can range from a few million to over $70 million for big projects. This is because the diameter of the machine is a key factor.
The "$1 Million per Meter Diameter" Rule
A common rule in the industry is the "$1 million per meter diameter" guideline. This means a 6-meter diameter TBM could cost about $6 million. But, this rule can change based on many factors.
Exceptions to the Rule
Subway-sized TBMs, around 6 meters in diameter, often have lower costs. This is because there's more demand and parts are easier to find. This shows how complex TBM pricing can be.
Large-diameter TBMs and Cost Increase
As TBMs get bigger, costs go up a lot. For example, a 16.46-meter Herrenknecht TBM for a big transit project cost $76 million. This is way more than the "$1 million per meter" rule suggests.
| TBM Diameter (meters) | Estimated Cost (USD millions) | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6-8 | Subway tunnels |
| 10 | 12-15 | Road tunnels |
| 15 | 30-40 | Large infrastructure projects |
| 17.6 | 70-80 | Mega projects (e.g., underwater tunnels) |
TBM Types and Their Price Variations
The cost of a tunnel boring machine changes a lot depending on the type. The site's geology is key in picking the right TBM. This choice affects the total cost of the tunneling equipment.
Single shield mixed ground TBMs are the cheapest, used in places without people. Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) TBMs are pricier because they're made for city tunnels. Slurry TBMs, built for certain ground types, are the most expensive.
| TBM Type | Typical Use | Relative Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single Shield Mixed Ground | Uninhabited Areas | Low |
| Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) | Urban Tunneling | Medium |
| Slurry | Specific Geological Conditions | High |
Choosing the right TBM is key for a project's success and cost. The global TBM market is expected to hit $11.28 Billion by 2031. This growth shows why knowing the cost differences is vital for those planning tunnels.
Leasing vs. Buying a TBM
Yes, TBM leasing exists, but it’s usually a structured lease program (often bundled with service/support), not a “daily rental” like you’d see with common construction equipment. For example they explicitly state they offer lease programs for both SBUs and full TBMs.
When Leasing Can Make Sense
If your job is shorter duration, your schedule is uncertain, or you want to avoid tying up capital in a machine you may not use again soon, a lease can reduce upfront cost and shift more risk onto the supplier—especially when parts/service support is included.
When Buying Is Usually the Better Call
If the TBM is highly customized to your diameter/ground conditions or you’re running a long program of work, purchase (or a refurb + upgrade of an existing machine) often pencils out better—because the machine configuration, spares, and backup systems tend to be engineered around your project.
Before you compare “lease vs buy,” ask these 5 questions:
- Does the lease include a buyout option (and how is residual value set)?
- Is the quote machine-only or the full tunneling system (backup/handling/conveyance, spares, commissioning)?
- What’s included in the lease: operator training, field techs, spares, cutter support, maintenance intervals?
- What are the mobilization/demobilization responsibilities and costs?
- Are there performance/availability expectations and downtime terms?
Financing Options for Tunnel Boring Machines
Companies have many ways to pay for tunnel boring machines. Commercial banks offer loans with good rates for short or long terms. Equipment leasing companies have flexible terms. Government loans have low interest rates and long repayment times, perfect for big projects.
American Capital Group (ACG) is a leader in financing tunnel boring machines. They offer financing and leasing with quick delivery, often within a week. They help save on maintenance, make upgrades easy, and offer discounts for buying multiple machines. ACG also points out tax benefits that can lower the cost of buying a TBM.
Ritchie Bros. Financial Services is another great choice. They've given over $1 billion in financing for equipment. They approve loans in just one day, thanks to their 10 years of experience. They have customer care agents ready to help on weekdays, making it easy to get the equipment needed.
FAQ
How much does a tunnel boring machine cost per meter?
The cost of operating a tunnel boring machine (TBM) ranges from $10,000 to $50,000 per meter, depending on factors like ground conditions, machine size, and project complexity. Soft ground is generally less expensive, while harder rock or mixed conditions drive costs higher.
How much does a tunnel system cost?
A tunnel system can cost anywhere from $10 million to $100 million per kilometer, depending on the project's scale, geotechnical conditions, and tunnel depth. Factors like construction method, environmental impact, and the required ventilation or safety features also influence the final cost.
What is the lifespan of a tunnel boring machine?
The lifespan of a tunnel boring machine typically ranges from 10 to 20 years, or it can complete multiple projects before major overhauls are required. Factors like usage frequency, maintenance quality, and ground conditions determine how long the TBM will last.
Why are TBMs so expensive?
Tunnel boring machines are expensive due to their size, complexity, and the need for customization based on project specifications. Additionally, TBMs require advanced technology to handle varying ground conditions, and their operation involves significant energy, labor, and maintenance costs.
