Effect of the face support pressure on tunnelling-induced ground movement

Abstract: This paper studies the influence of the tunnel face support on tunnelling-induced ground movements via numerical methods. An advanced 3D FEM numerical model is used which realistically simulates the main characteristics of an EPB tunnel excavation procedure (i.e., the steering gap between the shield and the surrounding soil, the segmental lining, grout pressure and its consolidation characteristics, the rate of excavation advance). The Simulia Abaqus FEM code is used to perform coupled hydro-mechanical analyses which can account for the effect of the groundwater. The results suggest a strong interplay between the applied face pressure, ground strength and the anticipated surface settlement.