Numerical Study of using Diaphragm Wall to Mitigate Mechanized Tunneling Induced Settlements

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

2 Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Tunneling-induced displacements could be dangerous for surface structures and urban infrastructure, if not controlled. Accordingly, different techniques are carried out to mitigate tunneling-induced displacements. In this regard, using a diaphragm wall is a practical technique. In this study, the effect of using a diaphragm wall for mitigating the Madrid metro tunneling-induced displacements was investigated. Despite mechanized tunneling of the Madrid metro extension, there is considerable settlement due to a thick layer of made soil ground. In this regard, TBM-EPB tunneling of the Madrid metro tunnel has been modeled step by step and three-dimensional in the finite element code of ABAQUS. The main construction aspects of a TBM are modeled, such as the face pressure, the injection of grout behind the segments, the overcut produced by the gap between the diameters of the cutter-head and the shield. The diaphragm wall is also modeled three-dimensional. For the parametric study, the elastic modulus of the wall, length of the wall, friction between the wall and soil, the distance of the wall from the tunnel axis and density of the wall are assumed to be variable. The results show the elastic modulus of the wall and the distance of the wall from the tunnel axis are the most effective parameters in mitigating the tunneling induced surface settlements and horizontal displacements. In the distance of 0.7D between the wall and tunnel axis, a wall of 0.5D or C+1D length could be the optimum option to mitigate the settlements. 

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References

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Amirkabir Journal of Civil Engineering
Volume 53, Issue 12
March 2022
Pages 5155-5174

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