Effect of loading type on generated stresses around a circular tunnel lining in sand

Abstract EN

The study is carried out to investigate the behavior of tunnel lining in sandy soil by evaluating the magnitudes of the generated stresses that are generally required to ensure the safety of tunnel construction.

The testing program comprised different factors, i.

e., sand depth, density with and without the effect of surface loading.

The experimental work was accomplished through an instrumented (strain gauged) circular tunnel model.

It was shown that the generated stresses, for different loading types, i, e., surcharge, circular or strip loading, decreased as the sand density increases for all regions (Crown, Shoulder and Spring line) and they increase as the sand depth increases.

The results are presented in the form of design charts.