The effect of Joint on response of Tunnel Segmental Lining by Finite Element Method

Abstract

It is known that the tunnel lining segments are connected by bolts as the joints to form tunnel lining. The overall performance of the tunnel lining is thus significantly affected by the joints. In the event that the tunnel lining is highly affected, opening of joints can lead to leakage causing damage to the tunnel structure. This article presents an analysis of joint behavior by finite element method (FEM).  Although studies of the behavior of segmental joints  have received widespread attention, there are only few studies verify their analysis results with the field test results. In this study, the importance of the development of the joint model for the tunnel lining is demonstated, using spring models. Joint model by spring model is validated by comparing the obtained analysis results with the full scale test results,  including the strain of the bolts and the opening of joint. Moreover, the deformation behavior of the tunnel structure is also considered.

Keywords: Tunnel lining, Joint of tunnel lining, Bolt, opening joint, Finint element analysis