Influence of Tilted Bolts on Flexural Behavior of Circumferential Joints in a Large-Diameter Tunnel.

This paper presents a finite element method (FEM) analysis of the flexural behavior of the circumferential joints in a large-diameter tunnel. The bending rigidity of these joints is calculated and compared based on the linear or nonlinear material properties of the connecting bolts. The results indicate that the nonlinear material properties of the bolts play a major role in determining the flexural rigidity of the joints. This flexural rigidity is also dependent on the tilt angle and the strength grade of the connecting bolts. The results presented in this paper may serve as guide for the design of similar tunnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]