Tunnel Construction

Select

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (7): 1536-1537.

Abstract （34）

PDF （1977KB）（649）

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Rockburst Mechanism and Control

HE Manchao, LI Jieyu, LIU Dongqiao, TAO Zhigang, HU Jie, WANG Jiong

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (7): 1321-1336. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.07.001

Abstract （127）

PDF （25477KB）（442）

The challenges posed by significant deformation of surrounding rock masses induced by excavation and the dynamic failure triggered by strong impacts are becoming increasingly severe as deep rock engineering advances. Rockburst, a common dynamic hazard in deep underground engineering, is referred to as the "cancer" of the geotechnical engineering community because of its suddenness. This characteristic makes effective prediction and prevention difficult, thus seriously endangering the safety of construction personnel and the normal operation of equipment. In this study, the authors explore the mechanism of excess energy in rockburst by comparing the energy storage differences of rocks under true triaxial unloading and uniaxial compression stress paths. Rockbursts are categorized into strainburst and disturbanceinduced impact rockbursts on the basis of different mechanisms of rockburst initiation. To simulate the stress paths of different types of rockbursts induced by excavation and reproduce various rockburst phenomena indoors for mechanism research, the authors′ team independently developed three sets of true triaxial rockburst simulation experimental systems. They are 1-G strainburst, 2-G strainburst, and impact rockburst experimental systems. Different types of rockbursts were successfully simulated in the laboratory. The authors include roadway strainbursts, roadway intersection strainbursts, strainbursts of three free face pillars, strainbursts of pillars, and impact rockbursts induced by dynamic loads. The authors propose an excavation compensation method and develope macroscopic and microscopic anchors/cables with negative Poisson′s ratio(NPR) effects to effectively control rockburst disasters. Engineering practice has proven that NPR anchors/cables can provide high prestress to compensate for stress loss caused by excavation. Moreover, they possess good ductility and energy absorption effects. As a result, NPR anchors/cables offer an effective approach for the prevention and control of rockburst disasters.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Comprehensive Prevention and Control Technology for Instantaneous Rock Bursts in Deep-Buried Drilling and Blasting Tunnels in Plateau Areas and Its Application

ZHAO Yong, TIAN Yuan, CHANG Shuaipeng, ZHONG Youming, ZHANG Jing

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (12): 2293-2306. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.12.001

Abstract （228）

PDF （12806KB）（437）

This study addresses the challenges posed by hard rock bursts in drilling and blasting tunnels, particularly under extra deep burial depth, extreme tectonic stress, and complex geological conditions in the western plateau areas of China. A comprehensive rock burst prevention and control technology system that spans the entire process and time domain was developed. This system emphasizes accurate detection, precise identification, active control, systematic protection, long-term monitoring, and dynamic management. It is grounded in systematic statistical analysis of the spatial and temporal characteristics of instantaneous rock bursts occurring in drilling and blasting tunnels on plateau railways. The analysis results indicate that: (1) The high geostress environment is the primary factor contributing to rock bursts, with instantaneous rock bursts occurring within 8 hours after blasting excavation primarily found within a range of one tunnel diameter near the working face. (2) Comprehensive prevention and control of instantaneous rock bursts in tunnels rely on a combination of active control and systematic protection. Active control measures include the implementation of advance stress relief holes, the management of smooth blasting outcomes and excavation lengths, the use of a shotcrete-bolting active support system consisting of steel fiber shotcrete and prestressed rock bolts, and integrated construction of profile steel frames and energy dissipation protection nets. Systematic protection focuses on large-scale mechanized construction, personnel, and equipment across all the processes.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Mechanism and Control of Large Deformations in Super-Deep Soft Rock Tunnels: A Case Study of Haba Snow Mountain Tunnel on Lijiang-Shangri-la Line of Yunnan-Xizang Railway

TAN Zhongsheng, ZHAO Jinpeng, ZHANG Baojin

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (12): 2307-2315. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.12.002

Abstract （217）

PDF （7999KB）（400）

Super-deep soft rock tunnels are prone to extensive deformations owing to high in-situ stresses and the presence of soft surrounding rock, often necessitating frequent replacement of primary supports. The authors focus on the Haba Snow Mountain tunnel project on the Lijiang-Shangri-la line of the Yunnan-Xizang railway. Specifically, the characteristics, mechanisms, and control techniques of large deformations in deep soft rock tunnels are examined. The large deformation characteristics of the selected tunnel are analyzed, and the mechanisms underlying these deformations are elucidated. A control technique involving advance stress relief, a combination of long and short anchor bolts, intensive grouting, and multi-layered support is proposed. Large deformations in the Haba Snow Mountain tunnel primarily manifest in the form of tunnel face instability, a rapid rate of support deformation, large deformation amplitudes, and severe structural damage. Implementing the proposed control measures effectively controls these large deformation phenomena. Measurement results indicate the following: The extrusion deformation of the tunnel face drops by over 60%, the overall tunnel deformation declines by over 40%, structural stress is considerably reduced, and the surrounding rock and contact pressures are lower than the structural design load of 1.0 MPa.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Frost-Resistant Design of Cold Region Tunnels Considering Freezing Patterns of Surrounding Rocks During a Full Lifecycle

XIA Caichu, CAO Shanpeng, CHEN Wei, GUO Kuo, LI Gan

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (9): 1736-1743. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.09.002

Abstract （366）

PDF （2703KB）（361）

Tunnel frost damage during a full lifecycle in cold regions is challenging and should be addressed. Thus, based on the sensitivity of the freezing and frost heave of surrounding rocks, the development of freezing patterns and the distribution characteristics of frost-heave force in the surrounding rocks of the tunnel in cold regions are examined using numerical analyses and theoretical calculations, proposing a segmented frost-resistant design method. The findings are as follows: (1) The maximum freezing depth of tunnel surrounding rocks in cold regions during the full lifecycle rapidly increases in the early stages of operation and gradually stabilizes after that. The development speed of the freezing depth of the surrounding rocks is primarily related to the annual average temperature and the annual temperature amplitude. (2) The frost-heave force of tunnels in cold regions increases with increasing freezing depth. The maximum frost-heave force during the full lifecycle of tunnels in cold regions exhibits a significant longitudinal nonuniform distribution. (3) The segmented frost-resistant design based on the full lifecycle frost-heave force grading can minimize the risk of frost damage throughout the full lifecycle of tunnels in cold regions, improving the economic benefits of frost-resistant support.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Integrated Application and Some Issues of Modern Tunneling Technology for Chengdu-Kunming Railway Tunnel

XIAN Guo, ZOU Yongmu, LI Xiaobing, WANG Guan, WANG Yangyang

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (8): 1713-1722. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.08.018

Abstract （125）

PDF （8668KB）（321）

The construction of tunnels on the Chengdu-Kunming 2nd railway encounters numerous geological challenges, including significant soft rock deformation, collapse, and water and mud gushing. To ensure construction safety and maintain project progress, a comprehensive tunnel water gushing treatment methodology, comprising exploration, interception, bypass, and drainage, is proposed for karst tunnels. In settings characterized by water-rich surrounding rocks and severe water and mud gushing, parallel heading tunnels are deployed to facilitate advance water discharge, water separation, and energy release and decompression. Additionally, a grouting technology termed "sealing and drainage" is utilized, applying grout from water-poor to water-rich sections. For tunnels surrounded by soft rocks with pronounced deformation, both long and short bolts are employed to reinforce the surrounding rock, thereby optimizing tunnel structure and enhancing its anti-deformation capacity. The implementation of these technologies has demonstrated effectiveness and offered distinct advantages in applicable tunnels.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Control Technology for Segment Dislocation and Attitude of Large-Diameter Shield Tunnels

DU Chuangdong, DU Yihang, HUANG Xiaofu

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (7): 1510-1519. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.07.017

Abstract （140）

PDF （7523KB）（319）

During the tunneling process, segments of large-diameter shield tunnels often experience uplift, dislocation, and linear deviation. To address these issues, attitude simulations and field tests are conducted on multiple large-diameter shield engineering projects and construction processes. When the shield main machine operates with a lower head or an attitude misaligned with the tunnel, significant upward buoyancy or horizontal misalignment forces occur at the segments after they exit the shield tail. This force can cause regular dislocation, tunnel alignment deviation, segment cracking, segment breakage, or even leakage. The results reveal that the primary causes of regular segment dislocation and tunnel alignment deviation are the barycenter shift of the shield main machine, the floating of the shield tail and rear segments, and excessive attitude adjustments. Analytical results show that shield attitude and tunnel alignment control are primarily influenced by formation properties, buoyancy, shield equipment, segment structure, and construction control. The phenomenon of segment dislocation can be avoided, and segment attitude and alignment can be effectively controlled by rationally optimizing the weight, barycenter, and grouting system of the shield main machine, strengthening the design of the end structure of the segment ring joint and shear, enhancing shield attitude fitting, controlling tunneling parameters, and innovating grouting technology.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Study on Ventilation Flow Field and Gas Transportation Law of Three-lane Gas Tunnel#br#

CHEN Zhiyu, YANG Feng, XIE Ke, LIN Guojin, YANG Wenbo, HE Chuan

Tunnel Construction
Accepted: 30 May 2024

Select

Autonomous Driving Technology for Shield and Its Application

WU Huiming, ZHOU Wenbo, WANG Yi

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (11): 2107-2118. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.11.001

Abstract （223）

PDF （11047KB）（281）

Despite of a high level of automation, the shield lacks adaptability to construction environment. Experienced technicians are required for precise control of the shield, and human factors have a significant impact on shield tunneling. Based on the internet, big data, artificial intelligence, and other newgeneration information technologies, an autonomous driving control system for shield with adaptive construction environment is proposed. The system can achieve highly autonomous driving of shield from goal programming, construction decisionmaking to control execution and perception feedback. Based on the autonomous driving control system for shield, the functions and software and hardware architectures of the autonomous driving system are introduced. Micro disturbance automatic tunneling and longdistance precise advance along the tunnel design axis can be achieved through intelligent control of key parameters such as shield posture, synchronous grouting, and advance speed. The engineering applications in Shanghai Airport Link Line show that: (1) The accumulative driving length using autonomous driving technology is over 4 km, and the horizontal and elevated posture deviation of 88% rings by autonomous driving technology is controlled within ±30 mm, with a 30% improvement in tunnel construction quality compared to manual control. (2) The maximum monthly advance reaches 829.8 m, greatly improving the shield tunneling efficiency.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Statistics and Development Analysis of Urban Rail Transit in China in 2024

WANG Fuwen, LIANG Shuaiwen, FENG Aijun

Tunnel Construction 2025, 45 (2): 425-434. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2025.02.018

Abstract （96）

PDF （3455KB）（272）

First, statistics are made on the operation lines and mileage of urban rail transit in China. The results show that: As of December 31, 2024, there were 61 cities with rail transit in China, with a total operating mileage of about 11 949.7 km (58 cities with a total operating mileage of 11 773.5 km if the electronic guide rubber-tyred system is not included), mainly in metro system, while low-capacity systems show a multi-mode development pattern. Then, statistics were made on the approval of new urban rail transit construction planning in China. The results show that China continues to hold a prudent attitude towards urban rail transit construction. Finally, the development characteristics of China′s urban rail transit industry are analyzed, and it is believed that China (1) pays more attention to network convergence, renewal, and reconstruction of existing lines and low-carbon construction; (2) implements the concept of new quality productive forces, and take convenience, efficiency, safety, green development, and cost-effectiveness as the guiding principles for technical development; (3) plans and constructs low-capacity rail transit according to local conditions to improve investment benefits; and (4) promotes the integrated development of rail transit and low-altitude economy, which is mainly reflected in the use of UAVs for patrol inspection recently.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Intelligent Classification and Software System for Surrounding Rock Based on Multivariate Geological Information

WANG Mingnian, TONG Jianjun, YI Wenhao, PENG Xin

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (12): 2451-2468. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.12.

Abstract （158）

PDF （14796KB）（264）

In order to improve the intelligentization level of surrounding rock classification in the construction stage and enhance the accuracy of intelligent rock classification, an intelligent rock classification method based on multivariate geological information and information fusion is proposed. An intelligent classification software system based on multivariate geological information is developed to realize automatic acquisition of multivariate geological information and automatic classification of surrounding rock for drill-and-blast tunnels. Based on tunnel projects in the western mountainous area of China, four types of multivariate geological information, including drilling parameters, highdefinition digital images of tunnel face, advance geological prediction information, and geological exploration information, are collected. Standardized and structured data processing and feature extraction are carried out. An intelligent classification model of surrounding rock based on multivariate geological information is constructed, and a web-end intelligent classification software system of surrounding rock based on multivariate geological information is developed for drill-and-blast tunnels. The accuracy of the intelligent classification model proposed in this study reached 95.45%, with an average accuracy of 95.05%, an average recall rate of 93.25%, and an average F₁ score of 94.14%. Field applications of the software system have been carried out for rock classification at 844 sections, which had a good performance on identifying unevenly distributed soft and hard rock or locally fractured rock.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Research and Practice on Intelligent Perception Technology of Multifaceted Information in Whole Process of Tunnel Face Construction Area

TIAN Siming, LIAN Jie, LI Xu, WANG Liewei

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (12): 2316-2331. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.12.003

Abstract （139）

PDF （22656KB）（263）

In view of the problems existing in current tunnel construction information monitoring, such as low automation levels, independence of equipment, diversified and heterogeneous data, and low reliability, the intelligent acquisition method of multifaceted information such as tunnel face geology, surrounding rock-structural deformation, and refined construction is studied, the information intelligent analysis algorithm based on binocular vision-grid structured light, video image depth segmentation network, and other technologies is proposed, and the integrated intelligent perception equipment for multifaceted information of tunnel face is developed. Field tests and applications have been carried out in tunnels such as Huayingshan tunnel of Xi′an-Chongqing high speed railway. The results indicate that: (1) In the challenging conditions of tunnel face construction areas, this technology and equipment can accurately and reliably collect geological, deformation, and construction information in real time. (2) Compared to traditional methods, the system significantly enhances the integrity, efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of the collected information. This improvement provides essential data support for ensuring tunnel construction safety and advancing the intelligent construction level of railway tunnels.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Optimizing Imaging Characteristics of Voids Behind Tunnel Linings Using gprMax Interference Elimination Method

LU Dechun, QIN Wei, GUO Caixia, LI Jiulin, DU Xiuli

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (10): 1928-1940. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.10.002

Abstract （135）

PDF （16126KB）（259）

Twodimensional models are insufficient for capturing the three-dimensional(3D) characteristics of voids behind tunnel linings, primarily due to the interference caused by reinforcement during traditional ground penetrating radar image processing. Additionally, conventional data processing methods are computationally inefficient and have limited accuracy. To address these challenges, the authors integrate average elimination, exponential gain, and time-zero correction techniques to develop the gprMax interference elimination method. The proposed method leverages the temporal variation of radar signals within two-way travel windows and uses piecewise function calculations to enhance computational performance. The feasibility of the proposed method is validated through forward simulations. A 3D model of the voids behind tunnel linings is constructed using gprMax software based on the finite-difference time-domain method to align with real-world grouting conditions and detection processes. The gprMax interference elimination method is used to optimize the imaging results of the forward simulation under varying conditions. The analysis of the imaging characteristics yields the following findings: (1) The forward simulation results using the gprMax interference elimination method closely align with the measured results from model tests of circular cavity structures embedded in indoor concrete slabs. (2) On horizontal survey lines, the rectangular void signal appears as a "concave" shape, whereas on vertical survey lines, it resembles the characteristics of direct waves. The size and burial depth of voids can be derived from the 3D feature maps. (3) The gprMax interference elimination method significantly enhances the electromagnetic signal strength of voids at greater depths. In summary, the proposed gprMax interference elimination method improves the data processing efficiency for voids behind tunnel linings while maintaining calculation accuracy and precision.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Supporting Effect and Bearing Pattern of Inclined and Advance Rockbolt Support Systems in Tunnels

DU Jiamin, HE Chuan, WANG Bo, XU Guowen, CHEN Xu, XU Kunjie

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (8): 1617-1631. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.08.009

Abstract （101）

PDF （15859KB）（257）

To investigate the mechanical properties of inclined and advance rockbolts on the Chongqing-Kunming high-speed railway, a field test is conducted in the Leye tunnel. Utilizing the support stress field concept, finite difference numerical simulations provide a quantitative description of the effective support range for these rockbolts. A multi-index method-considering tunnel displacement differences, surrounding rock plastic zones, and minimum principal stress in the surrounding rock-is employed to quantitatively evaluate the support effectiveness of the rockbolts. By analyzing the axial force distribution in the rockbolts and steel arch, the bearing pattern of the inclined and advance support system is determined and validated through field test results. The results reveal that: (1) After tunnel excavation, the rockbolt support creates a stress field with increased maximum principal stress near the excavation face, enhancing the anti-deformation ability of rock mass. (2) As the spatial effect of the tunnel face weakens, the load on the surrounding rock supported by the rockbolts increases, resulting in a larger effective support range. (3) Near the tunnel face, inclined and advance support improves the self-bearing capacity of the surrounding rock, reduces axial forces in the steel arch at the crown, shoulder, and haunch, and improves the stress characteristics of the steel arch.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (9): 2019-2020.

Abstract （41）

PDF （1192KB）（245）

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Review of Design and Calculation Methods for Minimum Overburden Thickness of Shield Tunnels in Water-Rich Environment

LIU Hanlong, JIANG Jiaqi, LIU Zhicheng, ZHANG Wengang, SUN Weixin, YANG Wenyu, LIU Maoyi, WU Daifeng, CHU Liang, ZHANG Tao

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (6): 1127-1144. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.06.001

Abstract （199）

PDF （5338KB）（240）

One of the key aspects of the construction of underwater shield tunnels lies in the design of the overburden thickness. A substantially small thickness of the overburden layer increases the instability tendency of surrounding rocks under construction disturbance, causing disasters such as collapse and water inrush. By contrast, an excessively large thickness will necessitate higher requirements for the project budget and construction period. The authors, supplemented with a comprehensive review of literature and insights from real world underwater tunnel engineering cases, systematically study and review the current rational design and calculation methodologies for overburden thickness. The content is crucial in ensuring the safety and stability of the underwater shield tunnel structure and smooth progress of the project, which can provide a reference for follow-up research and engineering practice. Several key findings are as follows: (1) Theoretical analysis and numerical simulation methods are included in the design methodologies for underwater shield tunnels. (2) Theoretical analysis methods are divided based on the focus of stability analysis, differentiating between those accounting for antifloating and tunnel face stability. (3) Current design methodologies for reasonable overburden thickness in underwater shield tunnels primarily rely on numerical simulation and theoretical analysis. However, these approaches oversimply actual engineering conditions, disregarding the nuanced influence of complex building environments, construction technology, and the intrinsic structural characteristics of the tunnel. Consequently, the research depth of overburden thickness and the applicability of design methodologies can be improved by conducting further research. (4) Currently available research on the minimum overburden thickness of shield tunnels in water-rich environments has been abundant, but its integration with the actual engineering is difficult. Overall, the aspects of construction economy, construction process, complex environmental impact, structural life, and intelligent construction platform should be further considered in future research.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Urban Tunnel Flood Prevention Technology

HUANG Jun, XING Dongdong, ZHANG Zhongyu, GUO Yizhong, WANG Ahua

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (10): 1917-1927. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.10.001

Abstract （166）

PDF （7188KB）（232）

In recent years, frequent extreme rainstorms cause flooding in urban tunnels. To address this problem, the authors summarize the causes of flooding disasters and the existing antiflooding experiences in urban tunnels based on relevant global literature and news reports. The current policies, standards, and contents of antiflooding work in major cities across China during the operation stage of urban tunnels are analyzed. Consequently, antiflooding measures for urban tunnels are examined. The antiflooding measures are classified into six major systems: (1) a barrier system to enhance the flood prevention capacity at tunnel exits, (2) a diversion system to divert water outside the tunnel in advance, (3) a drainage system to ensure that the drainage system inside the tunnel functions smoothly and meets the drainage requirements in the highstandard rainfall return period, (4) a control system to ensure the normal operation of the power supply and control system for the tunnel drainage system, (5) a warning system to prevent flooding in advance by increasing the flood-warning devices inside and outside the tunnel, and (6) an emergency system that can ensure timely emergency support measures in flooding accidents. Based on the maintenance grade of the urban tunnels and the flood risk grade within the tunnel site, antiflooding grades of urban tunnels can be classified into Grades Ⅰ, Ⅱ, and Ⅲ. Based on this classification, the upgrading schemes of the existing urban tunnels and the design of the planned tunnels can be determined.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Key Design Technologies for Integrated Highway-Metro Double-Layer Shield Tunnels

XIAO Mingqing, SUN Wenhao, HE Yingdao, HU Weidong

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (8): 1533-1543. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.08.001

Abstract （129）

PDF （7837KB）（226）

The integration of highway and metro systems within a double-layer shield tunnel presents several challenges, including layout design, structural integrity, combined vibrations from vehicles and trains, and ventilation and smoke extraction. A case study is conducted on the Jiluo road Yangtze river-crossing tunnel in Wuhan, China, and key design technologies for double-layer shield tunnels are analyzed through comprehensive comparison and 2.5-dimensional numerical simulations. The findings include: (1) The underground space required for the highway-metro double-layer shield tunnel can be minimized by optimizing the layout of the tunnel′s plane, longitudinal and horizontal cross-sections, and implementing specialized designs for wastewater pump rooms and evacuation staircases. This approach enhances the cross-sectional utilization and allows for a reduction in the tunnel′s outer diameter. (2) The use of a semiprefabricated and semi-cast segment combined with a nonclosed lining structure improves the overall bearing capacity of the internal structure and segment lining, significantly reducing riverbed erosion and deposition. (3) The combined vibrations from automobiles and metro trains slightly affects the tunnel, and the saturated fine sand stratum at the tunnel base remains stable without liquefaction. (4) Segmented longitudinal flues in the metro tunnel effectively manage smoke extraction over long sections without requiring air shafts, facilitating evacuation and greatly reducing construction challenges. (5) The inevitable cross-influence between highway and metro operations necessitates advance study of management interfaces and investment division to aid in effective decision-making.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Statistics of China′s Railway Tunnels by the End of 2024 and Overview of Tunnels of New Projects in 2024

GONG Jiangfeng, WANG Wei, LI Xu, HE Wei, YUAN Yi, WANG Fang, YANG Changxian, DING Xiang, HAN He, LI Li, CAO Yong

Tunnel Construction 2025, 45 (3): 636-653. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2025.03.019

Abstract （86）

PDF （5122KB）（218）

The authors present statistical data on tunnels respectively on conventional railways, high-speed railways, and extra-long railways in China by the end of 2024. According to the data, China′s operating railways have reached a total length of 162 000 km by the end of 2024. Among these operating railways, there were 18 997 tunnels with a total length of 24 246 km. New railways opened for traffic in 2024 incorporated 424 tunnels, with a total length of 738 km. There were 2 521 tunnels located on railways under construction, with a total length of about 6 905 km; there were 5 634 tunnels located on railways under planning, with a total length of about 13 742 km. The total length of high-speed railways that have been put into operation in China has exceeded 48 000 km, incorporating 4 917 tunnels with a total length of 8 279 km. Among them, 120 were extra-long tunnels with a length of more than 10 km each and a total length of about 1 536 km. 12 new high-speed railways with tunnels were opened in 2024, stretching for a total length of 1 981 km and incorporating 356 tunnels, totaling about 544 km in length. There were 58 high-speed railways under construction with a total length of 9 866 km, incorporating 1 412 tunnels with a total length of about 3 509 km. The planned high-speed railways included 2 057 tunnels with a total length of about 4 843 km. China had 296 extra-long railway tunnels in operation, with a total length of about 4 007 km. Among them, 14 were extra-long tunnels over 20 km each, with a total length of about 335 km. China′s new railways opened in 2024 included 10 extra-long tunnels with a total length of about 138 km. There were 163 extra-long tunnels located on railways under construction, with a total length of about 2 504 km; there were 259 extra-long tunnels located on railways under planning, with a total length of about 3 633 km. The authors also provide an overview of tunnels located on the new key projects opened in 2024, including Foshan-Dongguan intercity railway, Chengdu-Lanzhou railway, Lanzhou-Zhangye No.3 & No.4 line high-speed railway, and Chizhou-Huangshan railway. The characteristics of these tunnels are highlighted, along with a summary of the technical experience gained from them. The Foshan-Dongguan intercity railway has adopted geological route selection and segment measures such as "double admixing technology" and distributed mortise-and-tenon structure, effectively reducing the safety risks of tunnel construction. The Desheng tunnel on Chengdu-Lanzhou railway has established a comprehensive prevention and control system for large deformation and developed a double track combined tunnel rescue station, improving the tunnel deformation prevention and control, as well as evacuation and rescue capability. The Lanzhou-Zhangye No.3 & No.4 line high-speed railway has drawn on existing construction experience, significantly reducing safety risks during construction and operation through disaster-reduction route selection and comprehensive utilization of existing service galleries. The quality analysis technology for tunnel face surrounding rock has been successfully applied in tunnels on Chizhou-Huangshan railway, ensuring the safety of tunnel construction. In complex environments, the construction technology of large-diameter shield tunnels in China will become increasingly mature. The design and construction level of tunnels under complex geological conditions will be further improved, and the all-process mechanization level of the drill-and-blast tunnels will be effectively enhanced.

Related Articles | Metrics

Select

Advances in Operation Resilience of Highway Tunnels

DING Hao, DENG Shiqiang, LIU Shuai, LI Wenfeng, CHEN Juntao

Tunnel Construction 2024, 44 (9): 1723-1735. doi:10.3973/j.issn.2096-4498.2024.09.001

Abstract （186）

PDF （2696KB）（215）

The resilience-based systemic safety analysis paradigm offers a scientific and practical approach to managing the operational safety of modern highway tunnels. To gain a deeper understanding of resilience, the authors review advancements in resilience research across various engineering disciplines globally and distill two key insights: (1) resilience is a comprehensive capability that emphasizes performance throughout the entire process, and (2) it comprises distinct attributes, namely robustness, redundancy, resource adequacy, and rapid response. Recognizing the limitations of traditional risk analysis methods in the context of highway tunnel operations, the study underscores the necessity and value of incorporating resilience into safety management frameworks. Operational resilience in highway tunnels is defined as "the ability to prevent, resist, adapt to, and recover from actual or potential disruptions that may hinder the normal operation and traffic flow of highway tunnels". Furthermore, the concepts of full-stage performance, dynamic evolution, and objective quantification are analyzed, leading to the development of a preliminary conceptual framework. To enhance tunnel operational resilience, a strategy is proposed based on four functions: perception, response, learning, and prediction, along with preliminary measures to enhance resilience. In particular, in addressing fire risk, intelligent technologies and systems are highlighted, including advanced fire detection, fire prediction tools, and flexible entry-blocking mechanisms for tunnels. Future research on highway tunnel operational resilience is expected to deepen, providing practical guidance and promoting the scientific and systematic development of tunnel safety management. The ultimate goal is to create a safer, more efficient, and sustainable tunnel operation system through the establishment of a comprehensive theoretical framework.

Related Articles | Metrics

Top Download