A new linear cutting machine for assessing the rock-cutting performance of a pick cutter

A small-capacity linear cutting machine (LCM) and a new force measurement method with 1-D load cells were introduced to assess the rock-cutting performance of a low-cost pick cutter. Finite element analysis and LCM tests were implemented to verify the structural stability of the small-capacity LCM and the feasibility of the new force-measurement method. The results of the finite element analysis and the LCM test show that the small-capacity LCM is structurally stable while the new force measurement method is capable of acquiring the cutting forces with an average accuracy of 96.74%. In addition, the small-capacity LCM system for a Roadheader pick cutter was established at a cost of less than 10% of that of a conventional LCM system for a TBM disc cutter.

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