TLT-Turbo (GmbH), a leading supplier of ventilation equipment and systems has received a contract to provide longitudinal ventilation and escape route ventilation for the Baregg Tunnel project through a call for tender by the Swiss Federal Roads Office, ASTRA, based in Zofingen, Switzerland.

The scope of TLT-Turbo’s delivery on the project includes 16 stainless steel, dual-speed jet fans. The jet fans will meet the project’s temperature requirement of 250 °C/2 h. The contract also includes the supply of an extensive array of services including project management, documentation of performance and technical specifications, inspections, QA, testing, training of operating personnel and future maintenance. The order is currently being processed with completion of the installation expected by January 2024.

The Baregg tunnel and the Neuenhof covering are part of Switzerland’s N01 route, located between the exits and entrances of Baden-West and Wettingen. This section is known as one of the busiest sections of the Swiss national road network.

TLT-Turbo Head of Tunnel and Metro division, Jürgen Steltmann, said: “We scoped out this project by starting with a dimensional survey and inspection of the existing tunnel structure. This will be followed by planning, fabrication, factory tests and finally delivery and installation. We are confident that our approach will result in a ventilation solution that meets the requirements of the Baregg Tunnel project and ensures and safe environment for commuters.”

TLT-Turbo has over 100 years of experience in ventilation technology and has been developing, manufacturing, and constructing fans and ventilation systems for more than 40 years. This extensive experience has been consistently incorporated into the development of their tunnel ventilation systems.

According to Steltmann, to ensure a safe environment inside tunnels, TLT-Turbo’s foremost consideration is smoke. “In an emergency, smoke is one of the major hazards for people in an underground tunnel. Our ventilation systems provide clear visibility for escape routes. In case of fire, our Metro and Tunnel fans provide smoke free emergency exit routes.”

“Our other key considerations are quality, noise abatement and energy efficiency. Our fans are tested according to EN 12101-3 give tunnel operators peace of mind that they are receiving ventilation equipment that meets their specifications and is of the highest quality. From there, TLT-Turbo combines specially selected materials, highly heat-resistant motors and design precision to blend quality assurance with the highest economic efficiency,” Steltmann explains.

The aerodynamic features of TLT-Turbo’s Jet Fan range guarantee low power consumption and installation costs. They also help to keep the acoustic noise low. These fans may be used in tunnel sections as jet fans with free inlet and outlet and as axial fans in ducted installations. The success story of these fans started in the early 1970’s in the Alps and several important Alptransit-routes have been equipped with TLT-Turbo tunnel fans since then – including ventilation for the longest railway tunnel worldwide in the Gotthard Base Tunnel.

“Our track record combined with the fact we have well-trained, experienced staff who collaborate with leading international consultants to ensure that we meet expected international standards are what have made TLT-Turbo not just a supplier, but a preferred tunnel and metro ventilation partner renowned for redefining ventilation quality and performance,” Steltmann concludes.