Work

Three-Dimensional Seismic Analysis of Symmetrical Double-O-Tube Shield Tunnel

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The symmetrical Double-O-Tube (DOT) shield tunneling method, first developed in Japan in the 1980s, offers advantages in optimizing cross-sectional area and reducing construction space. While past studies have primarily focused on construction-induced settlement or empirical modeling, this study presents the first comprehensive three-dimensional seismic analysis of Taiwan’s first DOT shield tunnel, part of the CA450A contract of the Taoyuan International Airport MRT. A detailed numerical simulation is conducted using PLAXIS 3D 2024 with the Hardening Soil model, capturing both static and dynamic responses under earthquake loading. Notably, the analysis incorporates full-direction seismic input (3D) using Arias intensity-based filtering and scaling to assess the tunnel’s mechanical behavior under varying seismic intensities. Key structural responses such as displacement, axial force, shear force, and bending moment are evaluated. The findings reveal critical deformation patterns and stress concentrations in the central support structure, offering novel insights for the seismic design of complex multi-cell shield tunnels in high-risk seismic zones.

Source: Symmetry

DOI: 10.3390/sym17050719

Authors: Chia-Feng Hsu, Chih-Hsiung Huang, Yeou-Fong Li, Shong-Loong Chen, Cheng-Der Wang

Institutions: Chienkuo Technology University, National Taipei University of Technology, National United University

Language: English

Topic: Geotechnical Engineering and Underground Structures

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896