An approach for geotechnical numerical modelling of tunnels lining longitudinal behaviour
An approach for geotechnical numerical modelling of tunnels lining longitudinal behaviour
Underground structures behaviour is highly influenced by its joints, which are often ignored in the geotechnical simulations. The use of large boundary dimensions and advanced non-linear constitutive models for soils, challenges the introduction of additional contact non-linearities. Radial joints are usually accounted with simplified methods, but circumferential joints are usually neglected, although longitudinal behaviour can be very relevant in connections and under-passing scenarios, where the plane strain assumption is no longer valid. Two tested hands-on methodologies to simulate tunnel longitudinal behaviour in a geotechnical numerical model are presented. The methods allow to assess stepping and accurate member internal forces distribution, while keeping linear elastic properties. The first methodology simulates the joints using tangential and normal linear springs. This simplification allows for an easy calibration based on real cases monitoring results. The second method, more suitable for design stages, involves two extreme scenarios: a totally continuous structure and a non-uniform stiffness structure with low stiffness in bending and in radial shear at joint locations.
Helena Castellvi; Xavier Torello Ciriano; Angel Denia; Laura Baro Lopez; Dominik Hoerrle
10th European Conference on Numerical Methods in Geotechnical Engineering (NUMGE2023)
10. Tunnelling and mining applications
https://doi.org/10.53243/NUMGE2023-202
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