Cutterheads

A cutterheads, in the plural form, refers to the cutting assemblies at the front ends of excavation machines such as tunnel boring machines (TBMs), roadheaders, and some mining equipment. The cutterhead is a rotating, circular shell that carries a pattern of cutting tools and serves as the interface between the machine and the rock or soil being removed.

In tunnel boring machines, the cutterhead is a large steel drum or shield that turns as the TBM advances. It is equipped with a ring of cutting tools, most commonly disc cutters pressed against the face, and may also carry picks or other cutting elements depending on the rock type. As the head rotates, the tools fracture or shear material, which is then loosened and conveyed away by downstream systems such as screw conveyors or belt conveyors. The thrust system pushes the cutterhead into the face, while the drive system rotates it, coordinating with the machine’s steering and support systems to maintain alignment.

Tool types and wear are key considerations. Disc cutters are common in hard rock applications, whereas picks and other cutting tools may be used for softer ground or mixed conditions. Cutterheads require regular maintenance and replacement of worn cutters, and adjustments to contact pressure or gauge to optimize cutting efficiency and reduce tool damage.

Other machines, like roadheaders and some mining equipment, use cutterheads with rotating drums or heads carrying picks. Across applications, cutterheads are critical for initiating rock fracture, guiding tunnel alignment, and enabling continuous excavation.