{"title":"Enhancing micro tunnel boring machine efficiency: Optimal design of gauge triple disc cutters","authors":"Ebrahim Farrokh , Davood Lotfi","doi":"10.1016/j.tust.2025.107330","DOIUrl":null,"url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This research presents innovative strategies for optimizing the design and layout of gauge triple disc cutters in micro tunnel boring machines (TBMs). Recognizing the pivotal role of cutterhead design in boosting tunneling efficiency and reducing wear, a significant gap in the literature regarding the optimal arrangement of gauge triple disc cutters is addressed. A systematic approach that combines iterative methods and advanced optimization tools is employed to analyze critical geometric and operational parameters, including cutter ring diameters, normal forces, rolling forces, tilt angles, and angular positions. Results demonstrate that optimizing these parameters leads to substantial reductions in off-axis forces and moments, minimizes cutter slippage during operation, and maintains curvature in the gauge area. This study enhances the operational performance of micro TBMs and contributes to the advancement of construction techniques, offering valuable insights for future innovations in tunnel boring technology.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":49414,"journal":{"name":"Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology","volume":"170 ","pages":"Article 107330"},"PeriodicalIF":8.7000,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":"0","resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":null,"PeriodicalName":"Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology","FirstCategoryId":"5","ListUrlMain":"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S088677982500968X","RegionNum":1,"RegionCategory":"工程技术","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":null,"EPubDate":"2025/12/3 0:00:00","PubModel":"Epub","JCR":"Q1","JCRName":"CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNOLOGY","Score":null,"Total":0}
引用次数: 0
Abstract
This research presents innovative strategies for optimizing the design and layout of gauge triple disc cutters in micro tunnel boring machines (TBMs). Recognizing the pivotal role of cutterhead design in boosting tunneling efficiency and reducing wear, a significant gap in the literature regarding the optimal arrangement of gauge triple disc cutters is addressed. A systematic approach that combines iterative methods and advanced optimization tools is employed to analyze critical geometric and operational parameters, including cutter ring diameters, normal forces, rolling forces, tilt angles, and angular positions. Results demonstrate that optimizing these parameters leads to substantial reductions in off-axis forces and moments, minimizes cutter slippage during operation, and maintains curvature in the gauge area. This study enhances the operational performance of micro TBMs and contributes to the advancement of construction techniques, offering valuable insights for future innovations in tunnel boring technology.
期刊介绍:
Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology is an international journal which publishes authoritative articles encompassing the development of innovative uses of underground space and the results of high quality research into improved, more cost-effective techniques for the planning, geo-investigation, design, construction, operation and maintenance of underground and earth-sheltered structures. The journal provides an effective vehicle for the improved worldwide exchange of information on developments in underground technology - and the experience gained from its use - and is strongly committed to publishing papers on the interdisciplinary aspects of creating, planning, and regulating underground space.