The Investigation of Segmental Tunnel Lining Design Methods

Tunnel boring machine and precast concrete lining (segmental lining) are two main parameters (that) should have been considered for tunnel excavating specially. By considering that the segmental lining is not uniform ring, investigation and estimation the behaviour of segmental lining are complicated. First, in this paper, we have been tried to introduced, the usual methods of investigation in segmental lining, as follow: Elastic, “Schulze and Duddeck”, “Muir Wood”, “Beam-Spring” and Finite Element models. As Beam-Spring model is acceptable and comprehensible, so developing this method in different ways, has been discussed completely. As joint is main and important factor in lining behavior, so segmental joint has been studied and the method of calculation joint stiffness has been introduced by this paper. Finally, this paper has been tried to present modulation and maintenance of beam-spring models, by two case-studies.