Finite element analysis of tunnel–soil–pile interaction using displacement controlled model

Significant additional loads could be induced in pile foundations adjacent to new tunnels. Accurate prediction of magnitude and shape of the ground displacements, which define curvature changes, is crucial for the computation of tunnelling induced bending and axial stresses in pile foundations. The finite element simulation of tunnelling by removing forces corresponding to initial stress-state, tend to predict incorrect shape of ground displacement profiles, hence incorrect forces in pile foundations adjacent to tunnels. To overcome this difficulty, this paper describes the development and application of a simple and useful displacement controlled model (DCM) to predict the effects of tunnel excavation on adjacent pile foundations. The DCM simulates tunnelling by applying displacements to the tunnel boundary. A method to determine magnitude and direction of tunnel boundary displacements, based on convergence patterns observed in field and centrifuge test results, is proposed. Back analyses of numerous greenfield tunnel case histories using the DCM indicate good agreement between computed displacement profiles and field/test data. The suitability of the DCM in modelling tunnel–soil–pile interaction problems is demonstrated through back analysis of a centrifuge test and a field case study.