ABSTRACT
The lining of the Green Heart Tunnel (GHT) has an internal diameter of 13.3 m and a segmental thickness of 600 mm. Within the lateral joints the segments are supported without any packing materials like plywood and without constructive dowels and sockets: a so-called “flat joint”. The geometry of this tunnel has some obvious differences compared to many other tunnels. From the design point of view the chosen geometry has some important advantages. This paper shows the advantages in terms of structural behaviour. The structural lining behaviour can be predicted by use of complex FEM calculations and less complex models like frame analysis and analytical approaches. Since it has become clear that the assembling stage of the lining may result in normative internal forces during its service life, much effort has been put in the analysis of this temporary stage.
