Prediction Model for Gravel Stratum Shield Cutter Wear and Parameter Sensitivity Analysis of Cutter Parameters

[Objective] The high volume fraction of quartz particles in gravel stratum can lead to significant wear of shield cutters, impacting construction progress and timelines. Establishing a prediction model for shield cutter wear to forecast the extent of cutter wear is a crucial procedure to ensure efficient and safe shield tunnel construction. Therefore, it is necessary to study the cutter wear prediction model and conduct sensitivity analysis of cutter parameters. [Method] The abrasive nature of gravel stratum on shield cutters is analyzed, and the cutting mechanism of shield cutters in gravel stratum is introduced. A shield cutter wear prediction model that considers micro-level wear characteristics is established, and a sensitivity analysis of cutter parameters is conducted. [Result & Conclusion] The non-uniformity coefficient, characteristic particle size, and material wear are positively correlated. The volume fractions of plastic removal wear, brittle removal wear, and adhesive wear are 61.4%, 30.8%, and 7.8%, respectively, with plastic removal and brittle removal wear accounting for a significant proportion. The wear coefficient increases with increasing non-uniformity coefficient and characteristic particle size, while the overall wear of shield cutters decreases with the decreasing cutter edge angle. The wear of shield cutters is mainly caused by abrasive wear and adhesive wear.