Comparative assessment of bit geometry and cutting parameters

The Objectives of this research are to evaluate the performance of cutting tool, having different geometric configurations, in regards to bit-rock interaction and dust generation.;When the cutting process takes place, the main objective is to cut bigger blocks of land/ridge rather than small and less fine dust. It is also important to minimize the amount of airborne dust. The ratio of bit spacing to depth of cut, angle of attack and many other bit geometrical factors contribute to the amount of settled and respirable dust production. When rock is cut and two cutting bits are placed adjacently then the bit spacing should be such that the first cut made should create such a land/ridge so as to be minimized for the subsequent cut.;Two types of tests namely: (1) static and (2) rotary cutting experiments were performed. In static tests damage zones underneath the bits were on rock was analyzed and effectiveness of each bit during bitrock interaction was assessed. The findings of static tests were evaluated during rotary cutting by analysis of cutting and penetration pressures resulted from cutting by these bits as well as the analysis of dust generation.;The rotary cutting experiments were done using nine different bits at an attack angle of 45°. Each bit was run for four different depths, tip depth, half inch depth and two cuts of quarter inch each. Parameters like Penetration pressure, specific energy, acoustic emission, settled dust and airborne dust were evaluated, based on the bit geometry.