Three-dimensional finite element analysis on effects of tunnel construction on nearby pile foundation

A three-dimensional finite element simulation was carried out to investigate the effects of tunnel construction on nearby pile foundation. The displacement controlled model (DCM) was used to simulate the tunneling-induced volume loss effects. The numerical model was verified based on the results of a centrifuge test and a set of parametric studies was implemented based on this model. There is good agreement between the trend of the results of the centrifuge test and the present model. The results of parametric studies show that the tunnelling-induced pile internal force and deformation depend mainly on the pile-tunnel distance, the pile length to tunnel depth ratio and the volume loss. Two different zones are separated by a 45° line projected from the tunnel springline. Within the zone of influence, the pile is subjected to tensile force and large settlement; whereas outside the zone of influence, dragload and small settlement are induced. It is also established that the impact of tunnelling on a pile group is substantially smaller as compared with a single pile in the same location with the rear pile in a group, demonstrating a positive pile group effect.