Optimizing Minor Drainage Tunnel Position to Mitigate Groundwater Inflow in Main Tunnel Projects

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Department of Mining Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran

10.22055/jhs.2025.48675.1334

Abstract

Optimizing the positioning of minor drainage tunnels is a crucial strategy in mitigating groundwater inflow within main tunnel projects, a significant concern in civil engineering and infrastructure development. Groundwater inflow can lead to serious challenges, including tunnel instability, flooding, and increased construction costs. This makes effective management of water in underground projects paramount. The strategic placement of minor drainage tunnels facilitates the efficient collection and diversion of seepage water, thereby reducing the risks associated with groundwater inflows. This study employs numerical finite element modeling to examine the optimal positioning of drainage tunnels relative to main tunnels, considering various configurations and hydrogeological conditions. Results indicate that placing the drainage tunnel below the main tunnel significantly reduces groundwater inflow, especially as tunnel radii and groundwater head levels increase. These findings provide a practical framework for enhancing tunnel drainage efficiency, ensuring structural stability, and minimizing environmental impacts by introducing the final model in optimizing minor drainage tunnel position to mitigate groundwater inflow in main tunnel projects.

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References

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Journal of Hydraulic Structures

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 March 2025

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