Shortcomings of the Winkler Model in the Assessment of Sectioned Tunnels under Seismic Loading

Lars Andersen, Jakob Hausgaard Lyngs

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    Abstract

    A Winkler-type model is often applied in the design of tunnels subject to seismic loading. Since the subgrade stiffness is modelled by disjoint springs, distributed continuously along the tunnel, the model does not account for retroaction via the soil. This may not be a problem in the design of tunnels with a uniform cross section. However, for sectioned tunnels divided into a number of elements, erroneous results may be expected-especially regarding the relative deformations at the joints. In this paper, the results of aWinkler model are compared with a full three-dimensional continuum finite-element solution, using a planned tunnel at Thessaloniki, Greece, as a case study. The aim of the analysis is to quantify the inaccuracy of the Winkler model in the prediction of damage at a gasket between two tunnel elements.
    Original languageEnglish
    Place of PublicationAalborg
    PublisherDepartment of Civil Engineering, Aalborg University
    Number of pages24
    Publication statusPublished - 2009
    SeriesDCE Technical Memorandum
    Number10

    Keywords

    • Tunnel Design
    • Finite Elements
    • Earthquake
    • Soil Dynamics

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