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Evaluation and Optimization of the Effective Parameters on the Shield TBM Performance: Torque and Thrust—Using Discrete Element Method (DEM)

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Abstract

Cutterhead torque and thrust are the two main designing parameters of the shield TBM, which have to be evaluated and optimized, based on the interaction between the TBM and excavated material. This study employs the discrete element method (DEM) to simulate the tunneling procedure of the line-7 of Tehran underground urban train tunnel utilizing the micro mechanical parameters calculated from back analysis on direct shear tests. The resultant torque and thrust are then compared against the actual parameters and then with those estimated from the numerical analyses. This result shows that DEM is able to estimate the TBM torque and thrust applying actual boundary conditions and material properties for the model. Furthermore, the impact of ground properties, overburden height, linear and radial velocity on cutterhead torque and thrust and its performance are evaluated and optimized.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Sepasad Co. for providing us with the required information for this research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mining Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 8415683111, Iran

    Lohrasb Faramarzi, Alireza Kheradmandian & Amin Azhari

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  1. Lohrasb Faramarzi
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  2. Alireza Kheradmandian
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  3. Amin Azhari
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Correspondence to Lohrasb Faramarzi.

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Faramarzi, L., Kheradmandian, A. & Azhari, A. Evaluation and Optimization of the Effective Parameters on the Shield TBM Performance: Torque and Thrust—Using Discrete Element Method (DEM). Geotech Geol Eng 38, 2745–2759 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10706-020-01183-y

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