Three-dimensional simulation of rock breaking by TBM cutter

According to in situ characteristics,the method for establishing the three-dimensional simulation model of rock breaking by TBM cutter was explored under ANSYS-LS/DYNA condition.The construction process of concrete rolling by a certain type of TBM constant-cross-section disc cutter was successfully simulated by an example.Information such as the three-axis force of the TBM disc cutter and stress field distribution of the cutter ring and concrete as well as sideslips of the cutter ring was obtained and then analyzed.Results showed that the rock breaking process obviously presents characteristics of step crushing by the disc cutter and the phenomena such as sideslips and stress concentration of cutter ring were the main reasons for failure of the cutter. It could provide basic data for structural design of the cutter head and maintenance in engineering construction.