#Japan #Tokyo #Brokk500 #Gadelius #Remote Robot

Introduction of Brokk500 in Japan

Gadelius Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo and led by President Josta Tireforsh, has marked a significant milestone in the Japanese construction industry. Recently, the company provided the remote-controlled demolition robot Brokk500, manufactured by Sweden's Brokk, for a domestic tunnel construction site managed by Nishimatsu Construction Company. This deployment represents the first instance of utilizing remote-controlled robots in tunnel construction in Japan.

Features of Brokk500

The Brokk series features versatile remote-controlled demolition robots equipped with a variety of attachments that enable them to handle multiple construction tasks with a single unit. The Brokk500 is the second largest model in this series and is capable of performing key operations essential for tunnel construction, including excavation, mucking, and concrete spraying.

For this project, considering the environmental conditions within the tunnel, a fully electric model was adopted. This choice not only ensures lower emissions but also significantly improves safety and efficiency by allowing operators to control the machine remotely from a safe distance. Additionally, this advancement is expected to lead to reduced CO₂ emissions, improved job safety, and shorter construction times.

Background of the Introduction

The implementation of Brokk500 took place under unique conditions, specifically in a connector tunnel situated between the main tunnel and the shaft where the shield machine starts. In this area, the constraints imposed by the need to remove segments and the cross-sectional shape of the excavation made it impractical to utilize conventional large machinery typically employed in tunnel excavation.

To counter these challenges, Gadelius introduced the Brokk500, successfully balancing compact machine size with high operational capability. This innovation aims to enhance the construction cycle and improve productivity at the site.

Operational Mechanism of Brokk500

Brokk500 is equipped with six different attachments optimized for tunnel construction, allowing it to switch between tasks seamlessly. These functions include excavation, mucking, concrete spraying, and rock bolting, all managed by the same base unit.

During operations, various attachments were tested to ascertain their effectiveness for the project at hand, indicating a versatile functional range.

Expected Benefits from the New Introduction

The deployment of the Brokk500 is set to yield numerous benefits:

• - Enhanced Operability: The smaller machine size improves accessibility and ease of operation.
• - CO₂ Reduction: The electric operation of the machinery allows for a reduction of approximately 33% in CO₂ emissions compared to conventional methods.
• - Improved Cycle Times: The reduced machine replacement time enhances operational cycles, leading to shorter project durations.
• - Increased Safety: The remote operation capability significantly increases the safety of workers on-site.

Notably, the Brokk500 can support larger attachments (up to 700 kg), greatly surpassing the machine's size capabilities. Other attachments are being evaluated for future implementations across broader tunnel construction efforts.

Future Plans by Nishimatsu Construction

Nishimatsu Construction has detailed plans to expand the application range of the Brokk500 by focusing on:

• - Enhancing operational procedures for improved construction cycles.
• - Expanding equipment for long-distance remote operations (communication and video-related tools).
• - Applying it to special conditions like disaster recovery, beyond just tunnel construction.
• - Strengthening operator training for better maneuverability and safety.

The company intends to actively promote the use of electric and remote-controlled machines, further propelling initiatives toward reducing CO₂ emissions and driving reform in work practices.

Exhibition Announcement

Gadelius will showcase the Brokk series at the 8th International Construction and Surveying Expo (CSPI-EXPO 2026), set to take place from June 17-20, 2026, at Makuhari Messe. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience live demonstrations of the Brokk series and other groundbreaking products that enhance operational efficiency in construction and maintenance contexts. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our booth!

• - Event Details:

Venue: Makuhari Messe, Exhibiting Hall 411 - 11
Date: June 17-20, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (until 4:00 PM on the last day)
More info on pre-registrations can be found on the official site of the expo.

Gadelius Corporation will continue to contribute to the enhancement of productivity and reduction of environmental impact in the construction industry through the provision of electric machines and remote operation technologies.