Tutorial 18 - 3D Tunnel Simulation using Material Softening

In this tutorial, Phase2 is used to simulate the three-dimensional excavation of a tunnel. In three dimensions, the tunnel face provides support. As the tunnel face advances away from the area of interest, the support decreases until the stresses can be accurately modelled with a two-dimensional plane-strain approach. We will simulate this effect by gradually softening the material inside the tunnel and observing the change in settlement on the surface. Support is installed in the tunnel when an appropriate amount of settlement occurs.

3D Tunnel Simulation (click to view PDF file of tutorial)

Topics Covered in this Tutorial

3D tunnel simulation model