Correlation Analysis of Machine Performance Parameters and Rock Mass Properties during Tunnel Boring Machine Excavation Process: A Case Study in Yin-song Headrace Tunnel, China

Abstract

Abstract A rock breaking process during the tunnel boring machine (TBM) excavation sequence involves a complicated interaction between the disc cutters and the tunnel face, and the excavation process is influenced both by the rock mass properties and the TBM performance. Hence, in achieving a highly efficient TBM excavation, a mutual feedback analysis of rock mass properties and machine parameters is important. In this study, a correlation analysis of rock mass properties and TBM parameters is conducted based on the field data obtained from the Yin-song headrace tunnel in Jilin Province, China. Firstly, the correlation between the rock mass properties (i.e., uniaxial compression strength and rock quality designation index) and the machine parameters (i.e., thrust force, cutterhead torque, rotational speed, penetration depth, and penetration rate) obtained during the stable operation stage of TBM is extensively investigated. The variation in the TBM penetration rate as a function of rock mass properties and machine operation parameters is studied. A statistical prediction model that defines the effects of rock mass properties on the TBM penetration rate is established by multivariate linear regression analysis. The validity of the prediction model is verified by using the in situ monitoring data obtained from two different chainages of the project. This study can help rationalize the TBM machine parameters in order to obtain a highly efficient TBM excavation and a low life-cycle cost for the machine.