• Journal of Korean Tunnelling and Underground Space Association
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• v.17 no.2
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• pp.141-151
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• 2015

A new rock excavation method using an abrasive injection waterjet system has been developed to enhance the efficiency and reduce the vibration of tunnel excavation. The abrasive feed rate is an important factor for the cutting performance and the economical efficiency of waterjet-based excavation. In this study, various experiments were performed to explore the effects of major process parameters for both the abrasive feed rate and the suction pressure occurring inside the mixing chamber when the abrasives are inhaled. Experimental results reveal that the abrasive feed rate is affected by geometry parameters (abrasive pipe height, length, and tortuosity), abrasive parameters (abrasive particle size), and jet energy parameters (water pressure and water flow rate). In addition, the relation between the cutting performance and the abrasive feed rate was discussed on the basis of the results of an experimental study. The cutting performance can be maximized when the abrasive feed rate is controlled appropriately via careful management of major process parameters.

• Journal of Korean Tunnelling and Underground Space Association
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• v.16 no.4
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• pp.417-430
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• 2014

A new rock excavation method using an abrasive waterjet system is under development for efficiently creating tunnels and underground spaces in urban areas. In addition, an appropriate abrasive flow rate and abrasive flow quality are important for the new rock excavation (cutting) method using an abrasive waterjet system. This study evaluated the factors influencing the abrasive flow rate and abrasive flow quality, specifically the abrasive pipe height, length, tortuosity and inner diameter, through experimental tests. Based on the experimental test results, this study suggested optimal conditions for the abrasive flow rate and abrasive flow quality. The experimental results can be effectively utilized as baseline data for rock excavation methods using an abrasive waterjet system in various construction locations such as tunnels near urban surroundings, utility tunnels, and shafts.