Numerical simulation of shafts during excavation process

Through the finite element numerical simulation of dual-shaft of a hydropower station during the construction stage, the stress and strain of sidewall and the deformation laws of soils during excavation are analyzed, and the safety of construction is preliminarily assessed. The results show that the mechanical conditions of the shafts demonstrate the shear state of cantilever. With the increase of the excavation depth, the deformation of soils increases along the side of the wells, while the depth exceeds 90 m, the deformation of soils at the wellhead of the shafts is no longer obvious. The project using the “supporting while excavating” construction program complies with the safety margin.