ILCM (Intermediate Linear Cutting Machine)

structure expressly realized to carry out a test considered, to date, the most realistic for the evaluation of the rock-tool interaction process. The equipment determines the forces exchanged during excavation between a tool (sliding or rolling) and the rock by means of a triaxial cell. The tool used, specifically, is a disc, with the same characteristics as those mounted on the head of a TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine). The sample used faithfully represents the rock to be tested. The possibility of varying some geometric parameters, such as the distance between the grooves and the depth of cut, allow to evaluate the spacing/penetration ratio which allows to optimize the specific excavation energy