Case Study: Time History Seismic Analysis of a TBM Tunnel
- deepexcavation
- May 7
- 2 min read
TBM Tunnel with Segmental Linings - Time History Analysis with DeepEX
In this case study, we explore the seismic response of a tunnel boring machine (TBM) tunnel with segmental linings, modeled using the advanced capabilities of DeepEX geotechnical software. The analysis focuses on a time history simulation under the influence of earthquake loading, aiming to investigate structural behavior during seismic events in soft glacial soils.
Project Overview and Modeling Approach
The tunnel was modeled at a depth of 12 meters below ground surface, embedded in glacial till characterized by a friction angle of 36 degrees and a cohesion of 10 kPa. Utilizing the DeepEX model wizard, we efficiently generated the full 3D model of the tunnel, including all construction stages and automatic generation of the segmental lining elements. This streamlined modeling process significantly reduced setup time while maintaining high fidelity in geotechnical and structural representations.
Figure 1: The TBM tunnel model in DeepEX software
Figure 2: TBM tunnel – segmental lining joint stresses & lining settlements – Last stage
Seismic Load Definition
The central focus of this case study is a time history seismic analysis. For this purpose, we imported the Northridge NGA (Next Generation Attenuation) ground motion record directly into DeepEX. To simulate a moderate seismic event, the original acceleration values were factored by 0.5, producing an effective peak acceleration of 0.15g. The analysis spanned 8 seconds, segmented into 800 time steps of 0.01 seconds, providing a high-resolution view of the soil–structure interaction under dynamic loading.
Figure 3: Northridge Earthquake NGA in DeepEX
Results and Observations
DeepEX provided comprehensive output data for every construction stage prior to the seismic event. These results included:
Soil mass displacement and settlement maps
Stress shading of the soil body
Tunnel lining bending moments, shear forces, and displacements
Settlement and internal force graphs
Following the staged construction simulation, the software executed the time history analysis, capturing the progressive effect of the earthquake on the tunnel. Notably, DeepEX also generated an animation depicting all 800 time steps in sequence, allowing users to visually track soil deformation, tunnel segment movements, and stress redistributions throughout the seismic event.
Figure 4: TBM Tunnel lining moments & soil settlement shadings – Last timestep
Video: TBM tunnel time history analysis in DeepEX:
Conclusion
This case study demonstrates how DeepEX can be leveraged to conduct high-fidelity seismic simulations on underground infrastructure. The automatic generation of segmental linings, coupled with detailed time history analysis and graphical outputs, makes DeepEX a powerful tool for both design validation and research in seismic geotechnics.
Are you an excavation or tunneling professional? Try DeepEX today and see how advanced modeling can help you reduce design risks, optimize construction stages, and better prepare for seismic challenges.
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