Design optimization of TBM disc cutters for different geological conditions

Xia, Yimin; Zhang, Kui; Liu, Jingsheng

Abstract

A novel optimization methodology for the disc cutter designs of tunnel boring machines (TBM) was presented. To fully understand the characteristics and performance of TBM cutters, a comprehensive list of performance parameters were investigated, including maximum equivalent stress and strain, specific energy and wear life which were closely related to the cutting forces and profile geometry of the cutter rings. A systematic method was employed to evaluate an overall performance index by incorporating objectives at all possible geological conditions. The Multi-objective & Multi-geologic Conditions Optimization (MMCO) program was then developed, which combined the updating of finite element model, system evaluation, finite element solving, post-processing and optimization algorithm. Finally, the MMCO was used to optimize the TBM cutters used in a TBM tunnel project in China. The results show that the optimization significantly improves the working performances of the cutters under all geological conditions considered.

Citation

Xia, Y., Zhang, K., & Liu, J. (2015). Design optimization of TBM disc cutters for different geological conditions. World Journal of Engineering and Technology, 3(4), 218-231. https://doi.org/10.4236/wjet.2015.34023

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 14, 2015
• Online Publication Date: Nov 17, 2015
• Publication Date: Nov 17, 2015
• Deposit Date: Feb 29, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 29, 2016
• Journal: World journal of engineering and technology
• Print ISSN: 2331-4222
• Electronic ISSN: 2331-4249
• Publisher: Scientific Research Publishing
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 3
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 218-231
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4236/wjet.2015.34023
• Keywords: Disc cutter; Finite element method; Geological condition; Structural optimization; TBM
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/411734
• Publisher URL: http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?paperID=61172
• Additional Information: This is a copy of an open access article published in World journal of engineering and technology, 2015, v. 3 issue 4.