Analytical solutions of limit support pressure and vertical earth pressure on cutting face for tunnels

Abstract

This paper focuses on theoretical analytical models to calculate the limit support pressure and vertical earth pressure on the cutting face for tunnels. The failure zone is divided into two parts: a sliding failure zone and an upper loosen zone, and the limit support pressure calculation equation is derived. To verify the rationality of the theoretical model, it was compared with the existing theory, numerical simulation, and centrifugal test, and then the parameter analysis was carried out. The results show that the results of this paper agree well with the existing theory, numerical simulation, and centrifugal test. The inclination angle of the proposed mechanism is determined based on the results of the existing centrifuge test, and the recommended inclination angle is between 52° + φ/2 and 54° + φ/2. The method is proven to be safe and accurate. It can provide a theoretical basis for similar projects.

Keywords

• Instability and failure
• Excavation face stability
• Global method
• Soil arch effect
• Limit support pressure