The northern segment of Highway no.  6 is part of the principal transportation artery for the State of Israel. The northern segment extends from Ein Tut Interchange to the Somech Interchange. It has three tunnels along it (Yoqneam, Rechasim and Ibtin Tunnels) having a total length of about 9 km. The tunnels pass via rock that varies from high-strength limestone and dolomite to moderate- and low-strength chalky limestone, limestone and marl. The geotechnical challenge also included the crossing of the Carmel Fault, which is suspected as being active, and segments of basaltic rock from the Cretaceous Era with varying degrees of weathering.

Geotope-Levin was involved in the design of Segment 3 (Tel Kashish Interchange to the Somech Junction) and accompanied construction of the entire segment. Our work on the project, which began in 2009, continued the work of the late Geologist Amos Israeli, who for many years was a leader in the field of engineering geology in Israel. A team of five engineering geologists accompanied the tunneling stage for the Cross Israel Highway Company during the period 2014-2016.

Geotope-Levin’s ability to assemble a team of engineering geologists within a very short time found expression in this work. This team worked in shifts, producing reports daily and periodically, and participated in working meetings and providing expert opinions on various issues.

A special camera was used in this project enabling processing of 3-D photographs with software that was developed by 3GSM (ShapeMetriX). This camera makes it possible to photograph the excavation face without requiring the geologists to approach unsupported hazardous areas. Processing of the 3-D image enables processing of data for the entire excavation face including inaccessible areas located at the top. The use of this equipment enables a high level of safety to be maintained and also supports the collection of comprehensive structural data.

The use of this equipment was presented by Moshe Levin at the Israel Geological Society Conference held in Mitzpe Ramon in 2017.

Applications of Stereoscopic Photography and Structural analysis using 3D Software in tunneling and for blast design.