Analysis of Excavation Parameters on Face Stability in Small Curvature Shield Tunnels

Abstract

This study investigates the face stability of small curvature shield tunnels during excavation and its relationship with various excavation parameters. The stability of the excavation face is critical to the safety and efficiency of underground construction projects. Despite the increase in the use of small curvature shield tunnels in urban areas, research works on this type of tunnel are limited and the existing literature focuses only on straight shield tunnels. This study addresses this research gap through numerical simulations, analyzing the effects of different excavation parameters such as jacking force, cutting speed, and soil conditioning on face stability. The results of the study show that the excavation parameters significantly affect face stability. The findings can be used to optimize the performance of small curvature shield tunnels and support their continued development in urban areas.