Research on Mechanical Characteristics of TBM Cutter Bearing Based on DEM-MBD Coupled Simulation

Abstract

Introduction: The cutter is a crucial excavation tool employed by Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) for tunneling underground passages. During operation, it undergoes intense impact loads, which are transmitted to the bearings, thus posing a risk of bearing failure. Method: This paper combines the Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Multibody Dynamics (MBD) by establishing a coupled simulation patent model of the cutter and surrounding rock, various methods of cutter load profiles are compared. The study investigates the variation patterns of multi-directional rock-breaking loads on the cutter and validates the findings through wire-cutting experiments. Result: The research findings indicate that the discrepancies between the simulated and experimental mean values of the cutter's normal force and rolling force are 6.26% and 35.20%, respectively. The efficiency of cutter load transmission to the outer ring of the bearing is 99.10%, leading to the characterization of the vibration characteristics curve of the bearing's outer ring. Simultaneously, the mean square error of the cutter load obtained through the coupled method and traditional method is 78.50 kN and 76.10 kN, respectively. In comparison, the experimental load's mean square error is 99.20 kN, indicating that the coupled method better aligns with actual conditions. Conclusion: This research approach serves as a reference for TBM cutter performance analysis and bearing fatigue analysis.