Modeling and optimization of the use of tunneling complexes in the construction of auxiliary workings

The article is devoted to the analysis and development of efficient tunneling technologies in heterogeneous geological conditions typical for Saint Petersburg. The main construction challenges are associated with geological heterogeneity, a high level of groundwater, the presence of quicksand, and the need to work within confined urban environments and in proximity to historical buildings. The primary objective of the study is to enhance the efficiency and safety of small-diameter tunnel excavation. The rationale for using roadheaders with boom-type cutting heads is substantiated, as well as the need to adapt equipment to changing geological conditions. The study examines structural and kinematic features of cutting tools, the impact of deformation rate on the strength characteristics of rocks, and includes simulation modeling of the tunneling process. Key parameters influencing productivity were identified: rock strength, advance step length, and the frequency of cutting head replacement. A method is proposed for optimizing the tunneling cycle through the parallelization of operations. The obtained results demonstrate a significant advantage of mechanized tunneling over manual methods, especially in the construction of temporary and permanent auxiliary workings under complex geological conditions.

Keywords: Tunneling, small-diameter workings, roadheader, boom-type cutting head, mechanization, robotic systems, rock strength, geological heterogeneity, tunnel simulation, underground construction.
For citation:

Jungmejster D. A., Urazbahtin R. J., Timofeev M. I., Lavrenko S. A. Modeling and optimization of the use of tunneling complexes in the construction of auxiliary workings. MIAB. Mining Inf. Anal. Bull. 2025;(12-3):117—135. [In Russ]. DOI: 10.25018/0236_1493_2025_123_0_117.

Acknowledgements:
Issue number: 12-3
Year: 2025
Page number: 117-135
ISBN: 0236-1493
UDK: 624.191.6
DOI: 10.25018/0236_1493_2025_123_0_117
Article receipt date: 02.10.2025
Date of review receipt: 17.11.2025
Date of the editorial board′s decision on the article′s publishing: 09.12.2025
About authors:

Jungmejster D. A., Dr. Sci. (Eng.), Professor, https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7858-8340, Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, 199106, St. Petersburg, 21st line V. O., 2, Russia, e-mail: Yungmeyster_DA@pers.spmi.ru;
Urazbahtin R. Ju., Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Executive Director of the Scientific and Educational Center for the Collective Use of High-tech Equipment, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2913-5641, Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, 199106, St. Petersburg, 21st line V. O., 2, Russia, e-mail: urazbakhtin_ryu@pers.spmi.ru;
Timofeev M. I., Postgraduate student, http://orcid.org/0000-0002-9441-4532, Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, 199106, St. Petersburg, 21st line V. O., 2, Russia, s245061@stud.spmi.ru, ttps://orcid.org/0000-0003-1760-310X;
Lavrenko S. A., Cand. Sci. (Eng.), Head of the Department of Practical Skills and Experience, Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, 199106, St. Petersburg, 21st line V. O., 2, Russia, e-mail: Lavrenko_SA@pers.spmi.ru

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