3D discrete element model for TBM cutter breaking rock and dynamic loads analysis

Abstract

The model of the TBM cutter breaking rock has been established by the discrete element program Particle Flow Code (PFC3D). Then the random dynamic loads in the radial, the tangential and the axial direction of the TBM cutter under typical rock formation conditions are obtained. Compared with the experimental results, the feasibility of using the PFC3D software instead of the physical experiment to obtain the dynamic loads of rock breaking is verified. Analyzing the loads of the TBM cutter under different cutting depth, it is demonstrated that the peak loads in the three directions increase with the cutting depth, the mean value of the axial load is almost zero, and the peak value of the loads in the normal and the tangential directions is about two times of its mean value. The results provide a basis for the research on the vibration characteristics and the life forecast of the cutters.