Simulation and Experimental Research on Disc Cutters Optimal Spacing Based on Rock Breaking Specific Energy

Abstract

The cutter spacing relate to the rock breaking efficiency of the TBM. The double disc cutters rolling marble model is established by using ABAQUS based on the principle of rock breaking specific energy calculation. The effect of the cutter spacing on the amount of the breaking rock is analyzed, and the specific energy of the double disc cutters breaking the rock in different cutter spacing is calculated. The simulation results show that in the geological conditions of marble, when the penetration is 6mm, the cutter spacing is 78mm the specific energy is the smallest. The marble broken experiment was carried out by using the double disc cutters comprehensive test bench. The cutter spacing with the smallest rock breaking energy was about 78mm in the experimental results, which verified the rationality of the simulation model, and was helpful to determine the cutter spacing in different geological conditions and improve the rock breaking efficiency.