ABSTRACT
The basic aim of this study is to investigate correlations between cutting performances of a single-row button cutter and a constant-cross-section (CCS) single disc cutter. Penetration controlled full-scale linear cutting tests are performed on five different block rock samples. The cutting tests by the button cutter having a 305 mm (12 inch) diameter and an insert tip width of 11 mm (pitch of 15 mm) are performed in double-spiral cutting pattern as usually applied in raise boring machines. The cutting tests by the disc cutter having a 330 mm (13 inch) diameter and a tip width of 12 mm are performed in single-spiral cutting pattern. The results indicate that optimum cutting parameters of the button cutter (normal and rolling forces, coarseness index, specific energy, and ratio of line spacing to penetration per revolution) can be predicted from the optimum cutting parameters of the disc cutter.
