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Geomechanics and Engineering Volume 35, Number 5, December10 2023 , pages 487-497 DOI: https://doi.org/10.12989/gae.2023.35.5.487 |
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Full-scale TBM excavation tests for rock-like materials with different uniaxial compressive strength |
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Gi-Jun Lee, Hee-Hwan Ryu, Gye-Chun Cho and Tae-Hyuk Kwon
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| Abstract | ||
| Penetration rate (PR) and penetration depth (Pe) are crucial parameters for estimating the cost and time required in tunnel construction using tunnel boring machines (TBMs). This study focuses on investigating the impact of rock strength on PR and Pe through full-scale experiments. By conducting controlled tests on rock-like specimens, the study aims to understand the contributions of various ground parameters and machine-operating conditions to TBM excavation performance. An earth pressure balanced (EPB) TBM with a sectional diameter of 3.54 m was utilized in the experiments. The TBM excavated rock-like specimens with varying uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), while the thrust and cutterhead rotational speed were controlled. The results highlight the significance of the interplay between thrust, cutterhead speed, and rock strength (UCS) in determining Pe. In high UCS conditions exceeding 70 MPa, thrust plays a vital role in enhancing Pe as hard rock requires a greater thrust force for excavation. Conversely, in medium-to-low UCS conditions less than 50 MPa, thrust has a weak relationship with Pe, and Pe becomes directly proportional to the cutterhead rotational speed. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between Pe and cutterhead torque with a determination coefficient of 0.84. Based on these findings, a predictive model for Pe is proposed, incorporating thrust, TBM diameter, number of disc cutters, and UCS. This model offers a practical tool for estimating Pe in different excavation scenarios. The study presents unprecedented full-scale TBM excavation results, with well-controlled experiments, shedding light on the interplay between rock strength, TBM operational variables, and excavation performance. These insights are valuable for optimizing TBM excavation in grounds with varying strengths and operational conditions. | ||
| Key Words | ||
| penetration depth; rock-like material; TBM; tunnelling; UCS | ||
| Address | ||
| Gi-Jun Lee: Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, 111, Daedeok-daero 989beon-gil, Yuseong gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea Hee-Hwan Ryu: Korea Electric Power Research Institute (KEPRI), Daejeon, 34056, Republic of Korea Gye-Chun Cho and Tae-Hyuk Kwon: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST),Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea | ||