Numerical modeling of rock ridge breakage in rotary cutting

In this paper, the finite element code, LS-DYNA 3D, was chosen as the simulation tool to study the rotary rock cutting process. By using an Automated Rotary Rock Cutting Simulator as the prototype, a numerical model of a continuous miner was developed. The rock grooves cut by the bits in the numerical model were used to investigate the rock ridge failure mechanism. The numerical study indicated that shear breakage acted as the dominant mechanism in ridge removal. Drum speed, depth of cut, and multiple bit interaction have minimal effects on the groove width. For a given bit pattern, Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio of the rock are two major parameters affecting the ridge removal.