Abstract

Design methods of the Tunnel linings are mainly divided into two structural mechanics based and continuum mechanics based methods. Structural mechanics techniques are more effective because of their capability of modeling the cracking incurred by the plastic hinges. Among the methods propounded in structural mechanics is the Metrogiprotrans method in which the beam elements with pinned connections, fixed connections, etc., are used in regular polygon form for modeling of the lining, and the frame interaction with the ground mass is taken into consideration in the connection point using the elastic linear springs (based on the Fauce-Winkler hypothesis).    

In the present paper, assuming the algebric field displacement for the lining (an assumption prevailing in the limited element argument) and the lining-ground mass interaction modeling according to the beam on the elastic foundation argument, a comparison has been made between this method and the Metrogiprotrans method. Meanwhile, the results have been surveyed in comparison with the sample modeled using the arched elements.