Analysis of arching around shallow tunnels using the boundary element approach

Kamchoom, V. and Davies, T.G. (2010) Analysis of arching around shallow tunnels using the boundary element approach. In: 15th National Convention on Civil Engineering, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, 12-14 May 2010, pp. 374-378.

Abstract

This paper describes a study of the effect of soil arching around shallow tunnels using the Boundary Element Method. Due to the different stiffnesses of the soil and the underground structure, then, under surface loading, the differential displacements generate shearing (arching) forces which increase or decrease the load on the tunnel. Under elastic conditions, the soil parameters (elastic modulus (E) and Poisson’s ratio ( )) both affect these arching forces. The Boundary Element Method is an effective numerical technique to achieve accurate results as it deals directly with the tractions at the tunnel/soil interface. Moreover, it is more efficient than the Finite Element Method in this case because no elements are needed within the soil itself.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Kamchoom, Mr Viroon and Davies, Dr Trevor
• Authors: Kamchoom, V., and Davies, T.G.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Infrastructure and Environment
• Research Group: Infrastructure and Environment
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2010 The Authors
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the author