New model for predicting Instantaneous Cutting Rate of axial-type roadheaders

Abstract

Roadheaders are mechanical excavators which have been extensively used in tunneling, mining and civil engineering works. Performance prediction of the roadheader is major factor in determining the economy of an underground excavation project. In this study, a new model for predicting the Instantaneous Cutting Rate (ICR) has been developed. The performance of EBZ260W axialtype roadheader has been evaluated in the laboratory artificial rock cutting tests and in the tunneling field tests. Using the model, the processes of the artificial rock cutting in the laboratory tests have also been simulated. The predicted average ICRs in the laboratory tests, and in the simulations, together with the measured average ICRs in the laboratory tests and in the field tests are presented in this paper. The comparison of the predicted and measured ICRs shows that the relative error is within 5%. There are also reasonable agreements and strong correlations between the model and tests results. The new ICR prediction model is also supported by the empirical prediction formulas developed by other researchers. Hence, the model can be used to reliably predict the ICR for axial-type roadheaders.