Key Issues in Prefabricated Design and Construction of Shield Tunnel Internal Structure

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jcte.202606301

Author(s)

Cheng Xiaoqing1,*, Wei Chi2, Zhang Yazhou2

Affiliation(s)

1China First Highway Engineering CO.LTD., Beijing, China 2CCCC Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd., Beijing, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

With the rapid development of large-diameter shield tunnels, the transition of internal structures from traditional cast-in-place to fully prefabricated construction has become an industry consensus. This paper systematically reviews the research achievements on prefabricated design and construction of shield tunnel internal structures in China from 2013 to 2025, covering structural system selection, connection node design and experimental verification, structural mechanical performance analysis, factory-based prefabricated production, on-site rapid assembly processes and intelligent construction equipment, economic benefit evaluation, and operational disease characteristics. The results show that: (1) The "slab-beam-column" structural system has clear force characteristics and is most commonly used in double-layer tunnels; (2) Internal structures can significantly improve tunnel stiffness, with maximum longitudinal displacement reduction of 39.3% and radial convergence reduction of 86.87%; (3) Connection node types should be verified through testing, with grouting sleeve connections and UHPC post-casting materials being important development directions; (4) The prefabrication rate has increased from 50% to over 90%, reducing approximately 70% of labor and 80% of construction time compared to cast-in-place methods; (5) Intelligent assembly equipment has achieved one-click intelligent construction. Research gaps in long-term performance, multi-factor coupling, fire and explosion resistance, and geological adaptability are also discussed.

Keywords

Shield Tunnel; Internal Structure; Structure; Connection Node; Mechanical Performance; Intelligent Construction; Economic Analysis

References

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