Analysis on Segment Floating in the Construction of Large-Diameter Crossing-River Shield Tunnel

Abstract

Segment floating is a common problem met in the construction of large-diameter crossing-river shield tunnel. The factors affecting segment floating are discussed first and analyzed by numerical simulation, including the properties of grouting material, the speed of shield tunneling, grouting pressure difference, the tunnel longitudinal stiffness, frictional force between segment rings and weight of the supporting system. The simulation results indicate that segment floating will reduce by shortening slurry’s initial solidification time, slowing shielding speed, improving the tunnel longitudinal stiffness as well as increasing the frictional force between segment rings. And some measures are given such as applying new rapid-setting slurries, shear pins, rubber mats with high friction coefficient and pre-stressed bolts