Numerical study of excavation support loads in jointed rock masses : Voegele, M D; Fairhurst, C Proc 23rd Symposium on Rock Mechanics, Berkeley, 25–27 August 1982, P673–683. Publ New York: AIME, 1982

Abstract

A computer study of excavation support loads in tunnels and other excavations in discontinuous rock masses was undertaken with the distinct element method introduced by Cundall (1971). In the distinct element method the rock mass is modelled as a composition of individual blocks of rock defined by the joint planes. Normal and shear deformation laws are ascribed to the joint surfaces; the blocks of rock themselves are considered to be rigid. The particular version of the program utilized in this study ran a mini computer and used interactive techniques for the input of geometrical data such as joint orientation and spacing and subsequent display of rock mass deformation and other data. Two major aspects of the behaviour of excavations in jointed rock masses are examined in this paper: 1) the behaviour of unsupported excavations in rock masses with varying joint configuration, joint properties and in situ stress fields; and 2) the modification of the behaviour of similar excavations when support is provided. In the latter case the excavation behaviour was examined through the use of ground reaction curves. For the covering abstract of the symposium see IRRD 284392. (Author/TRRL)