Simulation based evaluation of time-variant loadings acting on tunnel linings during mechanized tunnel construction. (15th March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ninić, Jelena; Meschke, Günther
• Is Part Of: Engineering structures. Volume 135(2017:Mar. 15)
• Page Start: 21
• Page End: 40
• Publication Date: 2017-03-15
• Subjects: Mechanized tunneling -- Tunnel lining -- Loading -- Grouting pressure -- Solidification -- Process-oriented FE simulation -- Soil permeability; Structural engineering -- Periodicals; Structural analysis (Engineering) -- Periodicals; Construction, Technique de la -- Périodiques; Génie parasismique -- Périodiques; Pression du vent -- Périodiques; Earthquake engineering; Structural engineering; Wind-pressure; Periodicals; 624.105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2016.12.043
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-0296

Abstract

Highlights: The temporal evolution of loadings acting on tunnel linings is analyzed numerically. Solidification of the grouting mortar is considered in the simulation model. Earth pressure acting on the tunnel lining is computed using a contact formulation. The final loading at steady state does not converge to the in situ state. Grouting pressure as well as mortar and soil properties have large influence. Abstract: In the design of machine driven tunnels, the loadings acting on the segmental lining are often adopted according to simplified assumptions, which improperly reflect the actual loading on the linings developing during the construction of a bored tunnel. A coupled 3D Finite Element model of the tunnel advancement process including the ring-wise installation of the lining and the hardening process of the grouting material serves as the basis for the analysis of the actual spatio-temporal evolution of the loading on the lining during tunnel construction. The distribution of the loadings in the different construction phases is calculated using a modified surface-to-surface contact condition imposed between the solidifying grouting material in the tail gap and the lining elements. An extensive parametric study investigates the influence of the initial grouting pressure, the pressure gradient, the temporal stiffness evolution, the soil permeability as well as the interface conditions between the grouting material and the tunnel shell on the temporal evolution of the loading on linings.