TRAPDOOR TESTS AND TUNNEL LOADS EQUATION CONSIDERED THE ANGLE OF THE INCLINED LAYERS

Abstract

In this study, tunneling model tests are performed in the ground with inclined layers. Tunneling is simulated by a trapdoor experiment, in which earth pressure acting on both the upper and the outer parts of the trapdoor can be measured. Aluminum rods and blocks in the shape of rectangules are used as the ground materials for the formation of the inclined layers.
Not only variations in earth pressure but also the surface settlements due to the descending trapdoor are investigated. Moreover tunnel loads equation considered the angle of the inclined layers is induced so that comparisons between tests results and theoretical results are also conducted.