Abstract: In this study, the critical structural designs of pipe jacking machine with spokeplate cutterhead and faceplate cutterhead used in the Chao′er riverWest Liaohe river water diversion project are investigated. The stress distribution laws are derived using finite element method, and the mechanical properties of the cutter arrangement are characterized using numerical calculations. The results reveal the following findings: (1) The opening rate of the spokeplate cutterhead, especially the opening in the central area, is larger than that of the faceplate cutterhead. The possibility of mud cake(e.g., clay and gravel) to be present in the composite stratum is less. (2) Two kinds of cutterhead structural forms satisfy the structural strength requirements, wherein the faceplate cutterhead exhibits higher structural strength. (3) According to the analyzed mechanical properties, the unbalanced radial force and overturning moment generated by the doublecross disccutter arrangement of the spokeplate cutterhead are smaller than those of the faceplate cutterhead, and both cutterheads fulfill the design requirements. (4) Considering the geological conditions, structural form, strength analysis, cutter layout, and mechanical properties, the spokeplate cutterhead structure is selected as the primary structure in this project. Through project application, the adopted cutterhead operates stably with appropriate geological adaptability.

Key words: water diversion project, pipe jacking machine, secondary crushing, cutterhead structural type, cutter layout, opening adjustment