ABSTRACT
For the design of tunnel linings not only the final soil loading, but also the loading during the construction phase is an important issue. Based on monitoring of several bored tunnels in the Netherlands it became clear that, in order to prevent damage in the construction phase, a better understanding of the construction loading is necessary. The research presented here focuses on the fluid grout pressure loads. A new model is derived describing the grout loads as a function of the tunnel length, i.e. as a function of the length axis behind a tunnel boring machine (TBM). The model is evaluated, comparing results with measurements at the Botlek railway tunnel, the Sophia railway tunnel and the Green Heart tunnel.
