Effect of Jack Thrust Angle Change on Mechanical Characteristics of Shield Tunnel Segmental Linings Considering Additional Constrained Boundaries

Abstract

With the attitude adjustment of shield machine, the jack thrust angle will change and may lead to great damage to segmental lining structures. In this paper, a three-dimensional refined finite element method is proposed to study the action mechanism and influence of jack thrust angle change on the mechanical characteristics of shield tunnel, considering additional constrained boundaries formed by various construction loads. Firstly, the finite element method is established and verified. Then, a series of analyses is carried out to investigate the mechanical performance of a certain tunnel lining with eleven rings under conditions of different jack thrust angles. An in-depth discussion is conducted on the obtained displacement, deformation, and stress distribution. A quantitative standard is finally gained for controlling the jack thrust angle. The results show that the maximum segment displacement occurs at the lower part of the arch waist of the second ring out of the shield tail, which has little relationship with the attitude adjustment. With the increase of the jack thrust angle, the maximum offset between the rings increases linearly, which is not conducive to the safety of the lining structures. The development direction of the tunnel displacement is opposite to that of the jack thrust deflection. The displacement of the tunnel is most affected by the jack thrust deflection when the shield machine is upward, which is also the most unfavorable situation for the segmental linings. The results in this paper provide novel insights into the effect of jack thrust on shield tunnel.