A vital freight and passenger rail link connecting England and South Wales, the Severn Tunnel has been operating since 1886. To better preserve the 4.35-mile tunnel, ensuring reliability and safety for future generations, Network Rail wanted to generate a digital twin model of the structure. However, the lack of historical information, compounded by the sheer project size and multiple disciplines and stakeholders, presented data integration and coordination challenges. Network Rail needed integrated reality capture, 3D modeling, and digital twin technology.

Leveraging Bentley Open applications, ProjectWise, and iTwin, Network Rail generated an accurate 3D representation of the tunnel, established a connected data environment, and developed a federated model approach and digital twin accessible to the entire team and stakeholders. The collaborative digital solution reduced site visits by 50%, improving safety and reducing carbon emissions. Integrating real-time sensor data into the tunnel digital twin will facilitate future monitoring and proactive maintenance of the age-old infrastructure.