TBM performance prediction models and influences of rock mass characteristics

Recently, many prediction models have been developed by researchers to estimate TBM performance in hard rock. These models are usually based on empirical relationships of two sets of field measured parameters, namely, machine operation and performance parameters and rock mass parameters. Among recent models two models developed by authors are Gong and Zhao (2009) and Hassanpour et al. (2011). These models have been developed separately, based on data obtained from tunnels in Singapore and Iran respectively. These newly developed prediction models have some similarities in developing method and input and output parameters. In this paper after explaining some aspects of boring process and its influencing parameters, main TBM performance prediction models are introduced. Then two models developed by authors in recent years, are described in more details and compared. Results of comparisons show that output parameters obtained from these two new models coincide and they can be merged to develop a more comprehensive model with wider application range.

Keywords:

TBM performance , Prediction model , Hard rock , Penetration rate