S19 Rzeszów Południe–Babica: TBM “Karpatka” Undergoing Rotation

One of the most advanced engineering operations in Poland is underway on the S19 Rzeszów Południe–Babica section – the rotation of the TBM “Karpatka.” The machine has completed excavation of the first tunnel bore and is being prepared to begin work on the second.

The rotation is progressing according to plan and is combined with comprehensive servicing and technical inspections. The operation uses innovative Air Mover technology, which lifts the TBM on pneumatic cushions, enabling safe movement and rotation of elements weighing thousands of tonnes. Thanks to this solution, the machine has been divided into only four main sections, significantly reducing operation time and increasing safety.

Air Mover technology is rarely used worldwide and, at this scale, is considered exceptional. It eliminates the need to dismantle the TBM into hundreds of components, allowing for more precise and controlled work.

After rotation and servicing, TBM “Karpatka” will be positioned at the northern portal and prepared to excavate the second tunnel tube.

The 2,255-metre-long Babica Tunnel will consist of two one-way bores with 15 cross-passages and an emergency crossing. The tunnel is the most technologically advanced element of the 10.3 km S19 section, part of the Via Carpatia corridor. The project, worth over PLN 2 billion, is being delivered by a consortium of Mostostal Warszawa S.A. and ACCIONA for the General Directorate for National Roads and Motorways.