Numerical Study of Influencing Factors of Safety and Stability of Tunnel Structure under Airport Runway

Abstract

A six-degree-of-freedom mathematical model and mechanical balance equation of a “five-point-contact” aircraft are established in this study. The model and equation are used to investigate the safety and stability of a tunnel structure under the runway of an airport, particularly when aircraft taxi or move on the runway. ABAQUS is used to construct a three-dimensional finite element model of the cooperative deformation of the airport runway–soil–tunnel structure. The analysis focuses on the response and evolution of structural safety mechanical indices from the perspective of three influencing factors: type of aircraft, road surface, and burial depth. The results show that the distribution position of the main landing gear wheel is more concentrated using the dynamic load equation of different aircraft. A rigid pavement is not easily deformed when subjected to aircraft loads, whereas a flexible pavement has an excellent attenuation effect on diffusing forces. The shear stresses on the upper and lower arches of the tunnel structure differ depending on the pavement material. The deformation of the arches under shear stress is more intense than that of other parts. With an increase in burial depth, the tunnel structure withstanding the aircraft load disturbance exhibits an attenuation trend. The disturbance caused by soil stress to the tunnel structure must not be ignored. When the burial depth of the tunnel exceeds 64 m, the tunnel structure ceases to be disturbed by aircraft loads. The research results can significantly guide airport construction and be used as a reference for investigating the safety and stability of substructures under airport runways.