Research and optimization of tunnel construction scheme for super-large span high-speed railway tunnel in poor tuff strata

Abstract The rapid traffic developments create demands for shallow four-line high-speed railway tunnels in weak soils, while construction technologies of such tunnels have yet to be reported. In this article, the construction schemes for a shallow four-line high-speed railway tunnel with a span of 26.3 m in weak tuff strata are investigated by numerical analysis and in-situ tests. First, 20 construction schemes of the shallow super-large span high-speed railway tunnel are proposed and simulated by the Finite Difference Method, including eight schemes for grade V rocks and 12 schemes for grades IV and III rocks. The mechanical response of grade V rock mass is simulated by the Bolt–Kelvin Mohr–Coulomb rheological model. The influence of construction method, rock grade, area, quantity, and excavation sequence of pilot tunnels on the rock deformation and the internal force of the primary support are comparatively explored. For further analysis, an 8 month field test was conducted to study the optimized effect of the construction scheme. Finally, a suggested construction method selection chart for super-large span tunnels in weak rocks (spans between 17 and 34 m) has been proposed. The research conclusion could provide a reference for building the super-large span tunnel in complex conditions.