Structural Analysis of Composite Shield Cutter-Head and Cutters Arrangement Optimization Based on Finite Element

Abstract

With the comprehensive use of finite element and computer simulation, the cutter-head was analyzed and optimized. Based on the full analysis of structural features of the cutter-head, the finite element analysis model of the cutter-head was set up by using Solidworks and ANSYS. The analyses of the cutter-head under two kinds of limit load conditions were carried out and the stress distribution of the cutter-head was obtained. According to the tunneling characteristics, the cutters were re-arranged. The analysis showed that under the same conditions, the stress distribution of the improved structure was more symmetrical and the maximum stress and maximum deformation also had a remarkable reduction. Also there was a greater stress between the corbel and the flange; it would be of vital significance to increase the welding strength of these parts. And the results could provide basic data for the structure design of cutter-head.