ABSTRACT
This paper presents results of centrifuge model tests for observing the stability of pre -cast panel tunnels during and after construction. An in-flight sand hopper was newly developed to correctly simulate the process of such tunnel construction. The hopper makes it possible to construct a fill over the tunnel of any shape in any construction processes, while the centrifuge is spinning. An experimental system was also developed for simulating foundation settlements of tunnel. The system developed is applicable not only to simulate settling foundations of tunnel, but also to study the behavior of tunnel subject to settlement of the fill, which is caused by relatively small loads acting on subsoil beneath the tunnel. The objective of this research is to study the influence of filling and foundation settlement on the behavior of pre-cast panel tunnels during and after construction.
