Model for stiffness of joints of immersed tube tunnel

Abstract: The immersed tube tunnel is generally connected by segments through the joints, which are the weakest part and sensitive to deformation. The design and calculation of the Joints are key issues for the construction of the immersed tube tunnel. The joint stiffness , and are the important parameters for the design. According to the structural characteristics of the joints of the immersed tube tunnel, the mechanism of various components is analyzed by using the stress-displacement relations of end steel shell, GINA gasket, OMEGA gasket and rubber padding. A model for the joint stiffness is established based on the static equilibrium of the joints. It is helpful for better understanding of the mechanism of the joints of the immersed tube stunner.