A theoretical examination of the settlements induced by tunnelling: four case histories

A theoretically based procedure for predicting and designing for settlement above tunnels constructed in soft ground is outlined. The application of this theoretical technique is discussed and its range of applicability is examined by consideration of four case histories that encompass a wide range of soil conditions and construction techniques. This technique is then used as the basis of a design approach that is described in the paper. It is suggested that this procedure will provide a convenient means of estimating settlement induced by tunnelling in many different soil deposits provided that reasonable construction procedures are adopted. Keywords: tunnels, tunnelling, soft ground, settlement, analysis, design, deformations.