Bentley accomplishes a challenging geotechnical project in Stuttgart Sponsored

Bentley utilized PLAXIS 3D to accomplish a challenging geotechnical project in Stuttgart, Germany.

A new, 14-floor building is being constructed above two fully operational underground tunnels in Stuttgart. While excavating the construction pit, the existing tunnels required uncovering and partially excavating one side because of the asymmetrical pressure that it would put on the tunnel. This restriction would impose a tremendous impact on the excavation pit and construction process for the tower.

The team used PLAXIS 3D to perform a complex deformation analysis of the excavation pit and the two underground tunnels to determine the soil and structural interaction. The team generated a finite element model and simulated the excavation phases and installation of the ground supports, resulting in a modified design solution that included a lateral support to accommodate the asymmetrical pressure. The outcome revealed minimal settlements of the tunnel and no critical differential displacement, resulting in the tunnel owner’s acceptance of the excavation concept. PLAXIS simplified design of the excavation pit and streamlined the construction sequences.