A numerical modelling criterion for the analysis of underground openings using infinite elements

Underground openings subject to and initial stress field are usually analysed by the finite element method (FEM) by truncating the analysis domain at a large but finite distance from the zone of disturbance. In this paper, the problem is analysed by the method of finite (FE) and infinite elements (I...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inApplied mathematical modelling Vol. 10; no. 5; pp. 357 - 366
Main Author Kumar, Prabhat
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Elsevier Inc 01.10.1986
Subjects
finite element analysis
geotechnical engineering
infinite elements
numerical modelling
rock mechanics
stress concentration
tunnels
underground openings
numerical modelling
tunnels
infinite elements
rock mechanics
geotechnical engineering
underground openings
stress concentration
finite element analysis
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Summary:Underground openings subject to and initial stress field are usually analysed by the finite element method (FEM) by truncating the analysis domain at a large but finite distance from the zone of disturbance. In this paper, the problem is analysed by the method of finite (FE) and infinite elements (IE)to represent near- and far-fields, respectively. Deep openings of circular and elliptical shape and shallow circular openings are analysed to establish the approach. The numerical results of stress concentration factors are compared with analytical results and a satisfactory agreement is found. The mesh configurations and the finite/infinite element (FIE) interface locations are systematically varied to establish a numerical modelling criterion for the most effective use of this approach. It is asserted that the truncation approach may now by abandoned in view of the proposed approach, its applicability and advantages.
ISSN:0307-904X
DOI:10.1016/0307-904X(86)90095-8