Operational Tunnel Vehicle

National Grid is one of the world's largest publicly listed utilities focused on transmission and distribution of electricity and gas.

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National Grid are looking for innovative solutions for a suitable mode of transport in a 3m diameter high voltage cable tunnel.

Application Deadline
May 29th, 2023
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Summary

Background

In Spring 2020 National Grid embarked upon a seven-year, £1 billion project, to rewire South London via deep underground tunnels. This vital work will help keep Londoners connected to safe and reliable electricity supplies.

In total, 32.5km of 3m diameter tunnels are being constructed deep below the road network between Wimbledon and Crayford, which will carry high voltage electricity cables.

Most of the electricity supply in South London is currently transmitted through underground cables, traditionally found just below the road surface. Work to maintain them is carried out at street level and can be disruptive.

By housing new electricity cables in deep underground tunnels, there will be a number of benefits:

  • Less disruption during construction as the majority of works will take place deep underground
  • Future repairs and maintenance work can be carried out without disrupting traffic, residents and businesses
  • Additional cables can be installed in the tunnels to meet future demand

Challenge

National Grid are looking for innovative solutions for a suitable mode of transport in a 3m diameter high voltage cable tunnel. The vehicle must have the ability to:

  • Support 1-2 operatives (weight capacity of up to 150kg) in escaping from a tunnel environment in the instance of a fire or in the instance a member of the working party becomes injured.
  • Will need to have lifting points
  • Transport these 1-2 operatives through the tunnel lengths, of up to 14.4km, in order to perform operation and maintenance activities, at a max speed of 14km/hr
  • Is to have sufficient storage space for a first aid kit, defibrillator and lightweight tools up to 50kg (up to 800mm storage width)
  • Needs to be able to tow an attached stretcher/trailer that would support the evacuation of a casualty in the event of an emergency
  • Access to a hatch opening

The use of dual batteries is encouraged to aid escape and to eliminate alternative solutions which may emit gases (harmful to health) in the tunnel environment.

The solution is limited to an electric option as the tunnels are considered as an enclosed space.  240v charging points are available at the bottom of each shaft.

Full scope document can be found here.

What's in it for you?

A successful collaboration could mean, for individuals, becoming part of the wider National Grid group, while for organisations, forming a potential partnership with one of the world’s most iconic brands to co-develop and co-launch the idea to market. 

The Tunnel Vehicle will be tested by the client to ensure the criteria specified is met. This will include:

  • vehicle stability against the surface of the tunnel invert
  • a timed emergency evacuation trial
  • visibility in a smoke filled tunnel should be considered.

The following are the level of after sales support required:

  • training of personnel on the safe use of the vehicle
  • warranty for parts and labour and a prescheduled and agreed Maintenance regime to guarantee the longevity of the vehicle.

If you have or are developing solutions, or if you have expertise in the above, please click "Apply" to submit your solution/expertise to the Network.