Abstract
Soil and rock improvement and reinforcement techniques are applied to achieve safe tunnel excavation in difficult geological conditions. The Umbrella Arch Method(UAM), one of the auxiliary techniques, is used to reduce ground permeability and improve stabtility of the tunnel by inserting a series of steel pipes into ground around the crown inclined to the longitudinal axis of the tunnel. Additionally, multi-step grouting is added through the steel pipes. UAM combines the advantages of a modern forepoling system with the grouting injection method. This technique has been applied in subway, road and utility tunneling sites for the last few years in Korea. This paper presents the results of analysis of the case studies on ground movements associated with UAM used in the Seoul Subway line 5 constructon site. Improvement of tunnel stability and decrease of ground settlement expected with pipe insertion are also discussed. Finally, the method to minimize ground settlements caused by NATM tunnelling are suggested.