A Review of the CLH Index, an Empirical Methodology for TBM Cutter Wear Estimation
Source abstract
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive review of the CLH index, a predictive tool developed to estimate the wear of tunnel boring machine (TBM) disc cutters operating in hard rock conditions. The CLH index provides a simplified, time-efficient, and cost-effective alternative to conventional wear prediction methods by employing a statistically derived empirical formula. The methodology is based on the identification and quantitative assessment of key rock properties that influence cutter wear. A detailed statistical analysis was conducted to validate the index, quantify potential errors, and determine confidence levels. As part of this review, updated reference tables are proposed to facilitate cutter wear estimation without the need for preliminary laboratory testing. These tables are derived from empirical data obtained at the Rock Mechanics Laboratory of the Higher Technical School of Mining and Energy Engineers (ETSIME-UPM), using operational records from TBM excavation in multiple Spanish high-speed railway tunnels, with a total length exceeding 120 km. The results confirm the reliability and practical applicability of the CLH index as a decision-support tool in TBM performance forecasting and maintenance planning.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Tunneling and Rock Mechanics · Drilling and Well Engineering · Advanced machining processes and optimization
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Escuela de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad Alfonso X el Sabio (UAX), Avenida de la Universidad, 1, 28691 Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain
Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros de Minas y Energía, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28003 Madrid, Spain
Facultad de Ciencias de la Empresa y la Tecnología, Universidad a Distancia de Madrid (UDIMA), Carretera de La Coruña, KM.38,500, Vía de Servicio, nº 15, 28400 Collado Villalba, Spain
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