Articles | Volume 16, issue 2
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-931-2025
https://doi.org/10.5194/ms-16-931-2025
Research article
 | 
02 Dec 2025
Research article |  | 02 Dec 2025

Discrete element method analysis of cutter forces and cutter tooth wear in cutter suction dredgers

Yaowei Hu, Pan Jiang, Chenghui Cao, and Hang Li
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Latest update: 03 Dec 2025
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Short summary
Our study examined how dredging machines cut through soft rock to enhance efficiency and minimize wear. Computer simulations revealed that cutter teeth near the hub wore 30 times faster than outer teeth, with severe wear concentrated at tooth tips and upper surfaces. Cutting forces increased significantly with traverse speed but decreased with rotation speed. The most energy-efficient operation occurred at 0.2 m-s traverse speed combined with 20 rpm rotation speed.
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