Numerical simulation on effects of embedded crack on rock fragmentation by a tunnel boring machine cutter

Based on the simplification of cutting process, a series of numerical simulations were conducted using a 2-D discrete element method to explore the effects of embedded cracks with different dip angles on the rock fragmentation process, cutting characteristics and breaking efficiency. The results show that the simulated results are in a good agreement with previous theoretical study. The main crack propagates to the top tip of embedded crack, except when the dip angle is 90°. Side cracks which are more fully developed in the rocks containing embedded cracks tend to propagate towards the free surface. According to the history of vertical cutting force, it is shown that the peak force is decreased by embedded cracks. The study on cutting efficiency was conducted by combining the quantity of crack and cutting energy. And the results show that breaking efficiency can be treated as a decreasing or a increasing function when the dip angle is less or larger than 30°, respectively. Breaking efficiency is higher than that in intact rock when the dip angle is larger than 45°.