Volume 22, Issue 2 pp. 741-756
TECHNICAL PAPER

An application of confined concrete modeling to three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis: The example of tunnel boring machine lining joints

Cosimo Iasiello

Corresponding Author

Cosimo Iasiello

Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structures, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain

Correspondence

Cosimo Iasiello, Technical University of Madrid, Profesor Aranguren, s/n. 28040 Madrid, Spain.

Email: [email protected]

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Alejandro Pérez Caldentey

Alejandro Pérez Caldentey

Department of Continuum Mechanics and Structures, Technical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain

R+D Technical Director, FHECOR Consulting Engineers, Madrid, Spain

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Jan Ĉervenka

Jan Ĉervenka

Executive Director, Ĉervenka Consulting, Praha 5, Czech Republic

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Dobromil Pryl

Dobromil Pryl

Consulting Engineer, Ĉervenka Consulting, Praha 5, Czech Republic

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First published: 04 June 2020
Citations: 4

Discussion on this paper must be submitted within two months of the print publication. The discussion will then be published in print, along with the authors’ closure, if any, approximately nine months after the print publication.

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present through a practical example, some recommendations to properly model confined concrete in three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis. The example chosen is of particular interest for tunneling and structural engineers as it compromises the joints between segments of the concrete lining used with the tunnel boring machine technique. These sections are designed to transmit high pressures, sometimes exceeding the Standards' recommendations. To carry out the nonlinear finite element analyses (NLFEAs) a dedicated software, was employed. A discussion about which parameters play a fundamental role to efficiently model the problem is carried out. Finally, a comparison between NLFEA results and an experimental campaign is presented highlighting the differences in terms of stress values within the steel bars, the failure mechanism and evaluation of the contribution of steel to the resistance of confined concrete.

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