Tunnels and Caverns Design in Rock

In the field of underground space design, numerous publications, design theories and software are readily available and easily accessible in the market. But it can be unclear as to which software to use, or which design approach to adopt to complete a tunnel or cavern design. Factor in varying ground conditions and tunnels with different sizes, the experience will become overwhelming. As such, it is necessary to adopt a design approach that is acceptable by the industry and recognizes the appropriateness of the engineering application that was first developed (so called “first principal”). Such design approach shall not only be safe, but also understand the limit of the applied theories or software. This paper aims to present one general and complete design approach for drill and blast or mechanically excavated tunnels and caverns in rock of all qualities (using one completed project as example), that would eliminate such ambiguities. This paper will also be a useful reference for those pursuing a career in tunnelling.