Abstract

Prediction of lining loads is one of the key issues to be addressed in the design of a tunnel. The validity of the existing design methods is reviewed by comparing the loads calculated using the methods with the field measurements obtained from several tunnels in Edmonton, carada. However, the existing methods are determined not to be fully satisfactory for the prediction of primary lining loads. To account for the stress reduction occurring prior to lining installation, the stress reduction factor is used coupled with an analytical solution for calculation of lining loads. Typical values of dimensionless load factors nD/H for tunnels in Edmonton are obtained from parametric analyses and presented in a table. The loads calculated using the proposed method are compared with field measurements collected from tunnels in Edmonton to verify the method. The method can be used for other tunnels if the tunnels are built in stiff or dense soils, where good ground control is accomplished during the tunnel construction.