Tunnel structure analysis using the multi-scale modeling method

Structure analysis of the long tunnel is difficult due to the lack of available computing power. Water hammer simulation in the water conveyance tunnel is also complicated because of strong fluid structure interactions (FSIs). In this paper, the multi-scale modeling method is used to simulate water hammer impacts in the long tunnel. The method can not only yield water hammer simulations along the full tunnel length, but also the detailed structural responses of the segment linings. In the proposed partitioned approach, the structural field is solved with the finite-element program LS-DYNA. The fluid field is solved with the CFD software package FLUENT. The interaction between two physical fields is realized using ALE description. A practical case study is presented and the results are discussed in detail. The results provide us with a better understanding of water hammers and their effects on tunnel linings.

► We build a 14 km long pressurized water conveyance tunnel using the multi-scale modeling method. ► We simulate the water hammer in full tunnel length and analyze the structure responses of segment linings. ► The results provide us with a better understanding of water hammers and their effects on tunnel linings.