Studies on the key parameters in segmental lining design

The uniform ring model and the shell-spring model for segmental lining design are reviewed in thisarticle. The former is the most promising means to reflect the real behavior of segmental lining, while thelatter is the most popular means in practice due to its simplicity. To understand the relationship and thedifference between these two models, both of them are applied to the engineering practice of FuzhouMetro Line I, where the key parameters used in both models are described and compared. The effectiveratio of bending rigidity h reflecting the relative stiffness between segmental lining and surroundingground and the transfer ratio of bending moment x reflecting the relative stiffness between segment andjoint, which are two key parameters used in the uniform ring model, are especially emphasized. Thereasonable values for these two key parameters are calibrated by comparing the bending momentscalculated from both two models. Through case studies, it is concluded that the effective ratio of bendingrigidity h increases significantly with good soil properties, increases slightly with increasing overburden,and decreases slightly with increasing water head. Meanwhile, the transfer ratio of bending moment xseems to only relate to the properties of segmental lining itself and has a minor relation with the groundconditions. These results could facilitate the design practice for Fuzhou Metro Line I, and could alsoprovide some references to other projects with respect to similar scenarios.

Prototype Loading Tests on Full-Ring Segmental Lining of Rectangular Shield Tunnel

A series of full-scale loading tests are performed for a prospective subway tunnel with a rectangular shape including two reliability tests: one stagger-jointed three-ring reliability test, and one ultimate failure test on a single ring. Comprehensive measuring programs are designed to record the deformation of both lining structure and joints and the stresses of concrete, bolts and reinforcements. Experimental results show that in both the single-ring and three-ring loading cases, the long sides of tunnel cross section bend inwards while the short sides of tunnel cross section bend outwards. The inner part of joints opens while the outer part of joints closes at places experiencing positive moment and vice versa. Joint's rotational stiffness varies at different locations. Concrete cracking and crushing are the chief damage modes, and they are closely related to the distribution of bending moment. Stagger-jointed fabrication significantly increases the overall rigidity of lining system, which thereby greatly reduces the deformation of both concrete lining and joints in comparison with the single-ring case. It is shown that the routinely-used uniform rigidity model is conservative and the preliminary design can be optimized by applying an effective rigidity ratio(ERR) of 0.5.