Research Progress on Surface Strengthening Technology for Disc Cutter Rings of Shield Tunneling Machine

In shield tunneling construction, the disc cutter rings of shield tunneling machine come into direct contact with rocks, generating huge contact stresses. Common failure modes on surfaces of disc cutter rings include surface fatigue, adhesive wear, and abrasive wear. Improving wear resistance of disc cutter rings under extreme working conditions and complex geological conditions is a key issue to be overcome in shield tunneling construction. From the two aspects of surface modification and surface coating, the research progress of surface strengthening technology of disc cutter rings of shield tunneling machines in recent years is reviewed. It focuses on discussing the advantages and disadvantages of gradient hardness technology, laser surface quenching technology, ultrasonic shot peening strengthening technology, plasma nitriding technology, laser cladding technology, plasma surfacing technology, and high-velocity oxy-fuel spraying technology. The future development of cutter rings of shield tunneling machine is prospected.