Studies on the key parameters in segmental lining design

The uniform ring model and the shell-spring model for segmental lining design are reviewed in this article. The former is the most promising means to reflect the real behavior of segmental lining, while the latter is the most popular means in practice due to its simplicity. To understand the relationship and the difference between these two models, both of them are applied to the engineering practice of Fuzhou Metro Line I, where the key parameters used in both models are described and compared. The effective ratio of bending rigidity η reflecting the relative stiffness between segmental lining and surrounding ground and the transfer ratio of bending moment ξ reflecting the relative stiffness between segment and joint, which are two key parameters used in the uniform ring model, are especially emphasized. The reasonable values for these two key parameters are calibrated by comparing the bending moments calculated from both two models. Through case studies, it is concluded that the effective ratio of bending rigidity η increases significantly with good soil properties, increases slightly with increasing overburden, and decreases slightly with increasing water head. Meanwhile, the transfer ratio of bending moment ξ seems to only relate to the properties of segmental lining itself and has a minor relation with the ground conditions. These results could facilitate the design practice for Fuzhou Metro Line I, and could also provide some references to other projects with respect to similar scenarios.