Spacing Optimization of the TBM Disc Cutter Rock Fragmentation, Based on the Energy Entropy Method

Abstract

We used the hyperbolic Drucker–Prager and damage-failure models to simulate a three-dimensional rock fragmentation with a tunnel boring machine (TBM) disc cutter through ABAQUS. The energy entropy method was proposed to identify the optimal disc cutter spacing. In order to verify the results of the numerical simulation, previous linear cutting machine (LCM) test data were referred to. The results of the numerical simulation were verified by comparing the mean rolling force and the specific energy against the corresponding values from the LCM tests. The proposed energy entropy method showed a good agreement with the LCM test results, thus proving its usefulness in analyzing rock fragmentation for various disc cutter spacings. The comparison between energy entropy and the specific energy showed that both methods provide similar conclusions with regard to optimal spacing. The results of this research showed that energy entropy can predict the performance of TBM disc cutters and could help improve their design.