Numerical Evaluation of Wedge Penetration Resistance in Brittle Rock Mass with Regard to Equilibrium Propagation of Main Crack

The analytical model and numerical program are developed for solving 3D elastic problem on wedge tool penetration resistance in brittle rock mass with regard to the main crack growth. The program testing is described. Its efficiency is proved by comparison with the analytical solution of a problem on equilibrium propagation of a disc-shaped crack in the elastic space with pressure applied in the center of a circle of limited radius. Such solution is a good approximation of the problem on wedge penetration and can be used to estimate the wedge penetration resistance depending on the wedge geometrics, penetration depth and characteristics of the medium.