Effects of Pile Installation on Existing Tunnels Using Model Test and Numerical Analysis with Medium Density Sand

Abstract

Vital underground structures such as sewers, power transmission lines, subways, and underpasses are potentially vulnerable to adverse effects from aboveground construction. In this study, the influence of pile installation on nearby existing tunnels was investigated. Both a laboratory model test and finite-element numerical analysis were conducted. Twelve different combinations of horizontal and vertical offsets between the pile and the tunnel were investigated. Different surcharge loads (allowable and ultimate) were also considered. In this way, the appropriate separation distance between the existing tunnel and the piles was established for sandy, medium-compaction soil. Although this study considers simple ground conditions, it facilitates safe construction by confirming the appropriate separation distance and comparing the areas that cannot be penetrated by the structures of each standard.

Keywords

• tunnel
• pile
• safety zone
• underground structure
• numerical analysis