The design method of diaphragm walls for circular shafts of great-depth follows the design method for small-to medium-depth shafts. Design loads are currently determined without reasonable or scientific foundations.
It is reported that, in some cases, the results of measurements with earth pressure gauges placed in the circular shaft of great-depth showed that the axisymmetric lateral pressures are smaller than the design values, but non-axisymmetric lateral pressures are larger than the design values.
We should however note that the readings of earth pressure gauges are significantly affected by the initial value set at their placement. Therefore, it is not certain that the readings can be relied upon to determine pressures acting on the diaphragm walls correctly.
This paper discusses comparison of lateral pressures inversely calculated from sectional forces in the horizontal direction measured in the diaphragm walls of five circular shafts of great-depth, with the design lateral pressures.
View full abstract