Comparison of Empirical Model for Penetration Rate Prediction using Case History of TBM Construction

Abstract

This paper describes prediction results of penetration rate using case history in order to compare empirical models for penetration rate prediction of TBM. The reasonable empirical model is evaluated by comparison with prediction results and measured result. The penetration rate prediction is applied in separate empirical models considering rock characteristics and mechanical characteristics of TBM. The rock of applied filed had almost gneiss and its unconfined compressive strength was irregular due to the exist of weak zones and joint. In prediction results using unconfined compressive strength, Graham's model (1976) had impractical result when it had lower strength. NTNU model (1998) of the separate empirical models used in average penetration rate had the highest accuracy by comparison with the others, because it is a reasonable model which has rock characteristics and mechanical characteristics of TBM. However, Tarkoy's model (1986) based on unconfined compressive strength correspond with the measured values in field. Therefore, it should be considered a rock type, geological characteristic and mechanical characteristic of TBM at prediction of penetration rate.