Design Optimization of TBM Disc Cutters for Different Geological Conditions

Yimin Xia¹, Kui Zhang^1,2*, Jingsheng Liu²

¹State Key Laboratory of High Performance Complex Manufacturing, Central South University, Changsha, China.
²School of Engineering, University of Hull, Hull, UK.

DOI: 10.4236/wjet.2015.34023                

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.

Keywords

Disc Cutter, Finite Element Method, Geological Condition, Structural Optimization, TBM

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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