In order to study the geological factors which impact penetrating rate of tunnel boring machine (TBM), this paper uses three-dimensional discrete element model 3DEC to build simulated models on rock fragment by TBM cutter. It analyzes the influence of different geological conditions on TBM penetrating rate and classified the surrounding rock in west route of south-to-north transfer project according to the drill ability of TBM in surrounding rock. The results show that the penetrating rate of TBM is closely related to the mechanical properties of rock and joint conditions in rock mass. In certain extent, TBM penetrating rate will be increased with the decrease of rock strength or closely distributed joints. TBM penetrating rate will be decreased with the increase of rock strength or rarely distributed joint. Another result is that the surrounding rock by TBM penetrating can be divided into three classes based on the drill ability of TBM in surrounding rock, which can guide the TBM penetrating.