This paper addresses the challenges in tunnel boring machine (TBM) excavation, particularly the deformation and instability of surrounding rock and soil. To enhance the effectiveness of geomechanical model testing, the authors develop a rock-like similar material with early strength and good brittleness. The material is prepared using a combination of sulfoaluminate cement and ordinary Portland cement, which reduces curing time and ensures high stability. A self-developed scaled TBM testing machine is used to simulate rock breaking, providing insights into the disturbance patterns of the surrounding rock. The study demonstrates that increasing the content of sulfoaluminate cement significantly improves the compressive-tensile ratio of the similar materials. The impact zone of TBM tunneling is primarily within 0.5D in front of the tunnel face and 2D at the rear. The proposed method for similar material preparation and the model test device offer valuable references for future similar tunneling experiments.This paper addresses the challenges in tunnel boring machine (TBM) excavation, particularly the deformation and instability of surrounding rock and soil. To enhance the effectiveness of geomechanical model testing, the authors develop a rock-like similar material with early strength and good brittleness. The material is prepared using a combination of sulfoaluminate cement and ordinary Portland cement, which reduces curing time and ensures high stability. A self-developed scaled TBM testing machine is used to simulate rock breaking, providing insights into the disturbance patterns of the surrounding rock. The study demonstrates that increasing the content of sulfoaluminate cement significantly improves the compressive-tensile ratio of the similar materials. The impact zone of TBM tunneling is primarily within 0.5D in front of the tunnel face and 2D at the rear. The proposed method for similar material preparation and the model test device offer valuable references for future similar tunneling experiments.