ABSTRACT
This study explores the potential for using machine data from a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) to detect and quantify blocky ground conditions encountered during a tunnel excavation project. Blocky conditions are known to cause operational challenges in TBM performance, yet real-time detection and quantification remain difficult. Various methods of quantifying blocky conditions were evaluated using TBM operational data, including torque, thrust, penetration rate, and vibration. The analysis found no significant correlation between TBM data and the blocky ground conditions, suggesting limitations in the data or methods applied. This paper discusses possible reasons for the lack of correlation and recommends future research directions.
