STABILTY ASSESSMENT OF HEADRACE

TUNNEL SYSTEM FOR

PUNATSANGCHHU II HYDROPOWER
PROJECT, BHUTAN

Karma Tshering

Hydropower Development
Submission date: June 2012
Supervisor:
Krishna Kanta Panthi, IGB

Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Department of Geology and Mineral Resources Engineering

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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FOREWORD
This thesis titled Stability Assessment of Head Race Tunnel for Punatsangchu-II
Hydropower Project in Bhutan is submitted to the Department of Geology and Mineral
Resources Engineering, Norwegian University of Science & technology (NTNU), Trondheim,
Norway as an obligatory requirement for partial fulfillment of Masters of Science Degree in
Hydropower Development course 2010-2012.
The thesis is an outcome of the authors work carried out during the final semester of the study
period. It deals with review of engineering geological conditions of the rock mass along the Head
Race Tunnel. After assessing the geological and geotechnical features along the HRT design
layout, explores possible alternate alignment optimizing on the geological conditions along the
existing layout. The engineering property of the rock mass is studied from stability perspective
and possible instabilities discussed. Finally the designed support system is checked for adequacy
both empirically by NGIs Q standards and with the use of Phase2 numerical modeling.
The required datas and information on the project were collected by the candidate during the
summer break of June, 2011. The field visit to the project site was also made during the same
period. The thesis work is carried out under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Krishna K.
Panthi from the Department of Geology and Mineral Resources Engineering, NTNU during the
period from January to June, 2012. This thesis work is an academic in nature and the analysis
presented herein is combination of knowledge gained from lessons taught during this course and
my personal experience working as a hydropower construction engineer. The outside
contributions and inputs are duly acknowledged.

Karma Tshering
Msc. in HPD
NTNU, Trondheim
11th June, 2012.

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Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my supervisor Associate Professor Dr. Krishna K.
Panthi, Department of Geology & Mineral Resource Engineering, Norwegian University of
Science & Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, for his excellent guidance, encouragement,
suggestions, and discussions during the entire thesis endeavor. He has been very motivating and
his vast experience both in construction and as professional expertise has benefited me during this
enterprise. I thank you sir.
Im grateful to the Department of Hydraulics & Environmental Engineering, NTNU for giving me
this opportunity to pursue my masters degree under this department. I thank all the faculty
members who have taught us during the course period and others who have given all logistic
supports and made the study period conducive and enjoyable. My sincere thanks to Professor
Anund Killingtveit , professor in-charge for all the facilities and supports extended during the
whole course period. Mrs. Hilbjorg Sandvik the course coordinator for this Hydropower
development course has been very kind and supportive arranging everything positively and made
everything comfortable. My gratitude is due to Mrs. Hilbjorg Sandvick for all the moral and
administrative support.
I express my gratitude to the Norwegian state educational loan fund for providing me scholarship
under the quota scheme to pursue my study at NTNU.
I would like to express my gratitude to the Managing Director, Punatsangchu-II Hydropower
project in Bhutan for providing and giving me unhindered access all the datas and information on
the project. Especial thanks are due to Dr. Santosh Sathi, consultant geologist with Water and
Power Consultant (WAPCoS) who has provided all the important information and investigation
data on the project.
I have come across so many wonderful persons during my stay here in Trondheim. I thank you all
for memorable time we spent together. My friends back home who have given me immense
encouragement and support which made things easy for me. Thank you all for everything.
Finally, I would like to express my emotional gratitude to my wife who has taken lovely care our
daughter and son during my absence from them. The constant faith and encouragement from my
family have made things easy for me. Lastly I pray my humble gratitude to my parents. Im what
Im today all because of my parents. Thanks you for being lovely and caring parents.
Karma Tshering
June, 2012

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Bhutan is a small Buddhist country nested in the cradles of the eastern Himalayas. It has rugged
mountainous terrains with altitudes ranging from 500 masl in its southern plains to 4500masl in
the snowy capped mountains in north. This rugged mountainous topography blessed Bhutan with
huge hydropower potential. The hydropower potential of Bhutan is estimated at 30000MW with
projects above 10MW capacity as per the power system master plan. This is one of the highest in
the world considering its small size. In absence of other valuable natural resources, hydropower
has become the main national resources in the country. Out of huge potential, Bhutan today has
1488MW of installed hydropower project under generation illuminating about 90% of all houses
in the country and feeding power to its developing industries. Because of its small size and even
smaller population, the internal electricity consumption of Bhutan is small roughly 30% of its
present generation. The balance power is exported to India generating the most needed revenue
for the economic development of the country. Bhutan plan to construct 10000MW of hydropower
projects within year 2020 among which some mega projects are already under construction.
Bhutan being located in the tectonically active Himalayan geological formation faces lots of
geological challenges in tunneling works. The Himalayan geology intruded by numerous
geological discontinuities, and frequented by the tectonic activities poses lots of challenges for
tunneling works. The Himalayan geology is very complex and rock mass properties changes
greatly within small distances.
The engineering geological investigation for an underground work is very important. Detailed
investigation is important during the prefeasibility and feasibility study stage of the project. But
the availability of funds and time are the constraining factor in performing detailed engineering
geological investigations. Balance need to be made to cover most important geotechnical studies
within the availability time and fund to get a reliable design.
Punatsangchu II hydropower project is a runoff river scheme project being constructed along this
river basin in central western part of Bhutan. In this thesis, the engineering geological study of the
HRT was carried out with an aim to carry out stability assessment and support requirement for
HRT. The engineering properties of the rock mass along the HRT are reviewed from the stability
aspect with discussion on orientation of main foliation, joints and weakness zones with the tunnel
alignment. An alternate alignment is proposed, optimizing on orientation of main foliation, shear
zones and main jointing with the tunnel alignment, restricting the exercise within the same limits
of the start and end point of the HRT as given in designed layout.
It has been found that the topography along the HRT permits very limited alternatives for the
tunnel alignment layout and the location of construction adits. The main foliation and joint
orientations were taken care for the tunnel alignment. However, there are some rooms for
optimization within the same limits, if taken care of could bring better benefit to the project. This
possible optimization was used in the proposed alternate alignment.
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The rock mass characteristics and possible instability problems along the HRT alignment were
also reviewed in stability study. There are very less possibility of squeezing problems along the
tunnel alignment but minor instability problems could not be fully ruled out due to the low rock
mass strength. With the tunnel alignment crossing two nalas, some minor seepage problems were
also expected at those nala crossing areas. Possible solutions for instability and seepage problems
were also recommended in the relevant cases.
The NGIs Q method and Bieniawskis RMR methods were used for the rock mass classification
and the support design thereof. The designed rock supports are cross checked with the standards
NGIs support chart and Bieniawskis RMR guide charts. It is found that a typical conservative
support approach practiced in the Indian sub continent is followed for the support system. The
supports designed were on much conservative side compared with support requirement from Q
support charts.
Finally the supports were further checked by using Phase2 numerical modeling. The result of the
numerical analysis suggests lighter supports compared with the designed support for the HRT.
The adoption of the conservative methods may keep the instability problems at bay, but the cost
affect can be on the higher especially when the projects suffer from fund availability.

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Table of Content
THESIS TASK..I
FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................... iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................................................................ v
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................................ vii
Table of Content .............................................................................................................................. ix
List of Figures ................................................................................................................................ xiii
List of Tables .................................................................................................................................. xv
1

INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Hydropower development in Bhutan .................................................................................... 1
1.3 Hydropower potential of Bhutan .......................................................................................... 2
1.4 Object and Scope of study .................................................................................................... 3
1.5 Methodology ......................................................................................................................... 4

PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 5

2.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 5
2.2 Project location ..................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Regional geology .................................................................................................................. 6
2.4 Project features...................................................................................................................... 8

PLANNING AND INVESTIGATION................................................................................... 10

3.1 Prefeasibility ....................................................................................................................... 10
3.1.1 Prefeasibility report (1992-1993) ................................................................................ 10
3.1.2 Revised prefeasibility report (2003-2004) .................................................................. 10
3.2 Feasibility study report ....................................................................................................... 12
3.2.1 Review of prefeasibility report ................................................................................... 12
3.2.2 Feasibility study .......................................................................................................... 12
3.2.3 Conclusion on feasibility report .................................................................................. 17
3.3 Detailed Design Phase ........................................................................................................ 18
3.3.1 Head works ................................................................................................................. 20
3.3.2 Head Race Tunnel ....................................................................................................... 22
3.3.3 Geotechnical evaluation of adit portals....................................................................... 25
3.3.4 Power house Complex ................................................................................................ 26

REVIEW OF THE HEAD RACE TUNNEL ALIGNMENT................................................. 29

4.1 Geological features along the HRT alignment .................................................................... 29

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4.1.1
4.1.2
4.1.3
4.1.4

Dam axis (0.0m) to Adit-I (Ch. 1053.3m) .................................................................. 29

Adit-I (Ch. 1053.3m) to Adit-IICh. 4740.10m ........................................................... 30
Adit-II (Ch.4740.10m) to Adit-III (Ch.8482) ............................................................. 31
Adit-III (Ch.8482m) To Surge Shaft (Ch.8584.3m) ................................................... 32

4.2 Discussion on features of the head race tunnel alignment .................................................. 33

4.2.1 Head loss ..................................................................................................................... 33
4.2.2 Hydraulic fracturing of the rock mass ........................................................................ 34
4.2.3 Adit locations .............................................................................................................. 35
4.2.4 Squeezing problems .................................................................................................... 35
4.2.5 Tunnel alignment and foliation orientation................................................................. 37
4.3 Alternate HRT alignment .................................................................................................... 40
4.3.1 Calculation of head loss due to friction ...................................................................... 40
4.3.2 Hydraulic fracturing and water leakage problem........................................................ 40
4.3.3 Location of Adit portals .............................................................................................. 42
4.3.4 Squeezing problem due to high rock stress................................................................. 42
4.3.5 Cross section shape of the Tunnel .............................................................................. 43
4.3.6 Location of bends ........................................................................................................ 44
4.3.7 Tunnel alignments and the gneissosity ....................................................................... 44
4.4 Conclusion .......................................................................................................................... 47
5

STABILITY ANALYSIS ....................................................................................................... 48

5.1 Empirical method ................................................................................................................ 49
5.1.1 Rock mass classification ............................................................................................. 49
5.1.2 Prediction of tunnel squeezingl ................................................................................... 51
5.2 Analytical method ............................................................................................................... 52
5.2.1 Stresses in the rock mass............................................................................................. 52
5.2.2 Rock mass failure criterions........................................................................................ 56
5.2.3 Rock mass properties and estimation. ......................................................................... 58
5.2.4 Water leakage problems .............................................................................................. 63
5.2.5 Tunnel squeezing ........................................................................................................ 65
5.3 Numerical methods ............................................................................................................. 68
5.3.1 Types of numerical models ......................................................................................... 69
5.4 Conclusion .......................................................................................................................... 69

ROCK SUPPORT ESTIMATION ......................................................................................... 70

6.1 Types of support system ..................................................................................................... 70
6.1.1 Scaling......................................................................................................................... 70
6.1.2 Rock bolts ................................................................................................................... 71
6.1.3 Shotcrete ..................................................................................................................... 73
6.1.4 Steel supports .............................................................................................................. 73
6.1.5 Cast in place concrete ................................................................................................. 74
6.1.6 Grouting. ..................................................................................................................... 75
6.2 Designed support of Punatsangchu-II HRT. ....................................................................... 75
6.3 Methods of rock support design .......................................................................................... 78
6.3.1 NGIs Q method ........................................................................................................... 78

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6.3.2 RMR method of support design .................................................................................. 81

6.4 Comparison and comments on the support systems ........................................................... 82
6.5 Measures to reduce stability problems by shape and size of tunnel opening ..................... 84
6.6 Conclusion and discussion on rock classification and support system ............................... 85
7

Numerical modeling................................................................................................................ 86
7.1 Phase2 ................................................................................................................................. 86
7.1.1 Assumptions................................................................................................................ 87
7.1.2 Phase2 working ........................................................................................................... 87
7.2 Module generation .............................................................................................................. 88
7.3 Input parameters.................................................................................................................. 90
7.4 Interpretation of results ....................................................................................................... 91
7.5 Numerical modeling results ................................................................................................ 92
7.5.1 Support analysis at Ch.0.0m (Take off point) ............................................................. 92
7.5.2 Support analysis at Ch. 4167m ................................................................................... 97
7.5.3 Support analysis Ch.8584.3m ................................................................................... 102
7.5.4 Concluding Remarks ................................................................................................. 108

Conclusions ........................................................................................................................... 109

References ..................................................................................................................................... 110

Appendix A .............................................................................................................................. - 112 A1: Stress calculation sheet ................................................................................................. - 112 A2: Project features of revised prefeasibility study report 2003 ( WAPCoS, 2011) ........... - 113 A3: Project features of the detailed study report (WAPCoS,2011) ..................................... - 114 Appendix B Standard charts and table ..................................................................................... - 120 B1: NGIs Q Rating Parameters (Grimstad & Barton ,1993) ............................................... - 120 B3: Excavation Support Ratio ............................................................................................. - 123 B3: RMR classification of rock mass rating ( Bieniawski, 1989) ....................................... - 124 Appendix C Maps and figures ................................................................................................. - 126 C1: Geological map of Bhutan (Gucci,2000) ...................................................................... - 126 C2: Excavation section for HRT in different class of rocks ................................................ - 127 C3: Valley slope models and excavation support model at Ch 0.0m .................................. - 128 C4 Valley slope model and excavation support model at Ch.4167m .................................. - 129 C5: Valley slope model and excavation support model at Ch.8584.28m ............................ - 130 -

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List of Figures
FIGURE 1.1 LOCATION OF 10000MW PROJECTS TO BE EXECUTED WITHIN YEAR 2020 (KUENSEL,
28/1/2012) ................................................................................................................................. 3
FIGURE 2.1 MAP SHOWING THE PROJECT LOCATION (GOOGLE EARTH, 30/3/2012) ........................... 6
FIGURE 3.1 MAP SHOWING THE LOCATION OF PROJECT COMPONENTS (GOOGLE EARTH, 2/2012) .... 13
FIGURE 3.2 LOCATION OF DIFFERENT DAM AXIS (GOOGLE EARTH, 2/2012) .................................... 16
FIGURE 3.3 LOCATIONS OF ALTERNATE POWER HOUSE SITES (GOOGLE EARTH, 2/2012) ................ 17
FIGURE 3.4 LOCATION OF FINAL DAM AXIS ( GOOGLE EARTH 3/2012) ............................................ 19
FIGURE 3.5 GNEISS ROCK OUTCROP AT DAM SITE ........................................................................... 21
FIGURE 3.6 SURGE SHAFT LOCATION .............................................................................................. 26
FIGURE 4.1 JOINT ROSETTE FOR ROCK MASS FROM CH. 0.0M TO ADIT I .......................................... 30
FIGURE 4.2 JOINT ROSETTE FOR THE ROCK MASS BETWEEN ADIT I AND ADIT II ............................. 31
FIGURE 4.3 JOINT ROSETTE FOR ROCK MASS BETWEEN ADIT II AND ADIT III ................................. 32
FIGURE 4.4 FIGURATIVE ILLUSTRATION OF DIFFERENT PARAMETERS FOR HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
................................................................................................................................................. 34
FIGURE 4.5 LAYOUT PLAN OF HRT ALIGNMENT .............................................................................. 38
FIGURE 4.6 GEOLOGICAL SECTION ALONG HRT ............................................................................. 39
FIGURE 4.7 ROCK COVER AT CH. 0.0M ............................................................................................ 41
FIGURE 4.8 ROCK COVER AT CH.4167M .......................................................................................... 41
FIGURE 4.9 ROCK COVER AT CH.8584.28M ..................................................................................... 41
FIGURE 4.10 ALTERNATE CROSS SECTION FOR HRT ....................................................................... 44
FIGURE 4.11 ALTERNATE HRT ALIGNMENT LAYOUT ...................................................................... 45
FIGURE 4.12 GEOLOGICAL SECTION ALONG THE ALTERNATE HRT ALIGNMENT ............................. 46
FIGURE 5.1 TUNNEL SQUEEZING PREDICTION CHART BY SINGH ET AL (1992) ................................. 51
FIGURE 5.2 STRESS DISTRIBUTION BEFORE AND AFTER EXCAVATION ( PANTHI, 2011) ................... 54
FIGURE 5.3 TANGENTIAL & RADIAL STRESS ALONG CIRCULAR OPENING IN ISOSTATIC FIELD
(PANTHI,2011) ......................................................................................................................... 54
FIGURE 5.4 DISTURBANCE FACTOR FOR DIFFERENT TUNNELING ( HOEK & BROWN, 2002).............. 57
FIGURE 5.5 RELATION BETWEEN MAJOR & MINOR PRINCIPAL STRESSES FOR HOEK & BROWN AND
EQUIVALENT ............................................................................................................................ 58
FIGURE 5.6 CHOICE OF FAILURE CRITERION ( PANTHI, 2011) .......................................................... 58
FIGURE 5.7 STRENGTH REDUCTION BY WEATHERING IN PERCENT (PANTHI, 2006) .......................... 60
FIGURE 5.8 GEOLOGICAL STRENGTH INDEX FOR JOINTED ROCK MASS ( HOEK & MARINOS, 2000) . 62
FIGURE 5.9 FIGURATIVE PRESENTATION OF LUGEON TEST .............................................................. 65
FIGURE 5.10 ILLUSTRATION OF SQUEEZING IN CIRCULAR TUNNELS BASED ON BRAY, 1976 (PANTHI,
2006) ....................................................................................................................................... 66
FIGURE 5.11 TUNNEL CONVERGENCE AND DEGREE OF DIFFICULTIES ASSOCIATED WITH TUNNEL
SQUEEZING (HOEK & MARINOS, 2000) .................................................................................... 67
FIGURE 6.1 MANNUAL SCALING FROM MUCK PILE (L) & FROM SCISSOR PLATEFORM (R) ............... 70
FIGURE 6.2 MECHANICAL SCALING USING DRILLING RIGS ............................................................... 71
FIGURE 6.3 PRINCIPAL OF INSTALLING EXPANSION SHELL AND GROUTED ROCK BOLTS................... 72
FIGURE 6.4 ILLUSTRATION OF SPOT BOLTING .................................................................................. 72
FIGURE 6.5 SYSTEMATIC PATTERN BOLTING ................................................................................... 72
FIGURE 6.6 SYSTEMATIC ROCK BOLTS WITH SHOTCRETE ................................................................ 73
FIGURE 6.7 NORWEGIAN METHOD OF SUPPORT ............................................................................... 74
FIGURE 6.8 STEEL RIB SUPPORT WITH BACK FILL CONCRETE ........................................................... 74
FIGURE 6.9 ROCK SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR ROCK CLASS I & CLASS II................................................. 77
FIGURE 6.10 ROCK SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR ROCK CLASS III & CLASS IV ........................................... 77
FIGURE 6.11 ROCK SUPPORT FOR ROCK CLASS V & EXTREMELY POOR TO SQUEEZING CONDITION . 77
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FIGURE 6.12 NGIS SUPPORT CHART ( GRIMSTAED & BARTON, 1993).............................................. 79

FIGURE 6.13 ROCK CLASS & SUPPORT COMBINATIONS FOR PUNATSANGCHU II ACCORDING TO Q
METHOD ................................................................................................................................... 80
FIGURE 6.14 RECOMMENDED SHAPE OF TUNNELS ACCORDING TO STRESS CONDITION .................... 84
FIGURE 7.1 THREE MODULE OPERATION OF ..................................................................................... 88
FIGURE 7.2 VALLEY SLOPE MODEL FOR HYDRAULIC FRACTURE AND MINOR PRINCIPAL STRESS AT
CH.0.0M. .................................................................................................................................. 93
FIGURE 7.3 STRENGTH FACTOR DIAGRAM AT CH. 0.0M FOR ELASTIC ANALYSIS. ............................ 94
FIGURE 7.4 PRINCIPAL STRESS SIGMA1 VALUE FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS FOR TUNNEL SECTION AT
CH.0.0M. .................................................................................................................................. 94
FIGURE 7.5 STRENGTH FACTOR VALUE FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS FOR TUNNEL SECTION AT CH.0.0M 95
FIGURE 7.6 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT VALUE FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS FOR TUNNEL SECTION AT
CH.0.0M ................................................................................................................................... 95
FIGURE 7.7 SIGMA1 FOR 1.5MX1.5M R/B AND 100MM THICK SHOTCRETE SUPPORT AT CH. 0.0M.... 96
FIGURE 7.8 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR 1.5MX1.5MR/B AND 100MM THICK SHOTCRETE SUPPORT AT
CH. 0.0M. ................................................................................................................................. 97
FIGURE 7.9 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT VECTOR FOR 1.5MX1.5M R/B AND 100MM THICK SHOTCRETE
SUPPORT. .................................................................................................................................. 97
FIGURE 7.10 VALLEY SLOPE MODEL FOR HYDRAULIC FRACTURE AND PRINCIPAL STRESS VALUES AT
CH.4167M ................................................................................................................................ 98
FIGURE 7.11 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR ELASTIC MODEL AT CH.4167M.............................................. 99
FIGURE 7.12 PRINCIPAL STRESS VALUE FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.4167M ............................... 99
FIGURE 7.13 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.4167M ....................................... 100
FIGURE 7.14 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.4167M ................................. 100
FIGURE 7.15 SIGMA1 VALUE FOR 1.2X1.2 R/B , 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB 250@500 AT
CH.4167M .............................................................................................................................. 101
FIGURE 7.16 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR 1.2X1.2 R/B, 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB 250 @500AT
CH.4167M .............................................................................................................................. 102
FIGURE 7.17 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT FOR1.2X1.2 R/B, 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB @500AT
CH.4167M .............................................................................................................................. 102
FIGURE 7.18 HYDRAULIC FRACTURING PROBLEM TEST AT SECTION AT CH. 8584.3M ................... 103
FIGURE 7.19 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR ELASTIC MODEL AT CH.8584.3M......................................... 104
FIGURE 7.20 MAJOR PRINCIPAL STRESS VALUE FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.8584.3M .............. 104
FIGURE 7.21 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.8584.3M .................................... 105
FIGURE 7.22 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT FOR PLASTIC ANALYSIS AT CH.8584.3M .............................. 105
FIGURE 7.23 SIGMA1 VALUE FOR 1.2X1.2 R/B , 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB 250@500 AT
CH.8584.3M ........................................................................................................................... 106
FIGURE 7.24 STRENGTH FACTOR FOR 1.2X1.2 R/B, 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB 250 @500AT
CH.8584.3M ........................................................................................................................... 107
FIGURE 7.25 TOTAL DISPLACEMENT FOR1.2X1.2 R/B, 250MM THK SFRS & ISMB @500 AT
CH.8584.3.............................................................................................................................. 107

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List of Tables
TABLE 2-1 IMPORTANT FEATURES OF PUNATSANGCHU II PROJECT ( WAPCOS, 2012) ..................... 8
TABLE 3-1 IMPORTANT FEATURES OF REVISED PREFEASIBILITY STUDY REPORT (WAPCOS, 2011) 11
TABLE 3-2 FOLIATION AND CROSS JOINTING DETAILS OF ALTERNATE DAM AXIS I ......................... 14
TABLE 3-3 FOLIATION AND CROSS JOINTING DETAILS FOR ALTERNATE DAM AXIS II ...................... 14
TABLE 3-4 DETAILS OF FOLIATION AND CROSS JOINTING DETAILS AT ALTERNATE DAM AXIS III .... 15
TABLE 3-5 DETAILS OF MAJOR JOINT SETS AT POWER HOUSE LOCATION ........................................ 16
TABLE 3-6 LIST OF GEOLOGICAL AND GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION DONE AT DIFFERENT SITES . 19
TABLE 3-7 FOLIATION DETAILS OF THE HRT BETWEEN CH 0M TO ADIT I ...................................... 23
TABLE 3-8 FOLIATION DETAILS OF THE ROCK MASS OF HRT BETWEEN ADIT I AND ADIT II ........... 23
TABLE 3-9 FOLIATION AND CROSS JOINT DETAILS FOR ROCK MASS BETWEEN ADIT II AND ADIT III
................................................................................................................................................. 24
TABLE 3-10 ROCK MASS CLASSIFICATION ALONG THE HRT ALIGNMENT (WAPCOS, 2011) .......... 25
TABLE 3-11 LABORATORY TEST RESULTS FOR CORE DRILLING AT DIFFERENT PROJECT SITES ......... 28
TABLE 4-1 FOLIATION AND JOINT DETAILS OF THE ROCK MASS FOR HRT BETWEEN CH. 0.0M TO
ADIT I ...................................................................................................................................... 29
TABLE 4-2 FOLIATION AND JOINT DETAILS FOR ROCK MASS BETWEEN ADIT I AND ADIT II............. 30
TABLE 4-3 FOLIATION AND JOINT DETAILS FOR ROCK MASS BETWEEN ADIT II AND ADIT III .......... 31
TABLE 4-4 ROCK MASS PARAMETERS AND ROCK CLASS ALONG THE HRT ALIGNMENT .................. 33
TABLE 4-5 TANGENTIAL STRESS VALUES IN THE ROOF AND WALLS AT DIFFERENT HRT SECTIONS . 36
TABLE 4-6 ROCK DEFORMATION VALUES ALONG THE HRT SECTIONS. ........................................... 36
TABLE 4-7 MINIMUM ROCK COVER CALCULATED FROM THIMB RULE FOR HYDRAULIC FRACTURING
................................................................................................................................................. 40
TABLE 4-8 VALUES OF ROCK STRESSES AND DEFORMATION AT DIFFERENT LOCATIONS ALONG HRT
ALIGNMENT .............................................................................................................................. 43
TABLE 4-9 COMPARATIVE FEATURES BETWEEN EXISTING AND ALTERNATE ALIGNMENT LAYOUT .. 47
TABLE 5-1 ROCK MASS CLASSIFICATION BASED ON NGIS Q METHOD ............................................. 50
TABLE 5-2 ROCK MASS CLASSIFICATION BASED ON RMR RATINGS ................................................ 51
TABLE 5-3 MINIMUM ROCK COVER FOR SQUEEZING FROM SINGH ET AL RELATION ......................... 51
TABLE 5-4 VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL STRESS VALUES ALONG HRT SECTIONS ........................... 53
TABLE 5-5 A & B VALUES IN UNDERGROUND OPENINGS ( HOEK & BROWN, 1980) ......................... 55
TABLE 5-6 TANGENTIAL STRESS VALUES IN ROOF & WALLS ALONG THE HR ALIGNMENT .............. 55
TABLE 5-7 ROCK MASS CONSTANT VALUES FOR THE HRT .............................................................. 56
TABLE 5-8 EMPIRICAL FORMULAS USED FOR ESTIMATING ROCK MASS STRENGTH .......................... 59
TABLE 5-9 ROCK MASS STRENGTH VALUES CALCULATED FROM EMPIRICAL FORMULAS ................. 60
TABLE 5-10 MATERIAL CONSTANT MI VALUES FROM HOEK ........................................................... 61
TABLE 5-11 EMPIRICAL FORMULAS USED FOR CALCULATING DEFORMATION MODULUS .................. 63
TABLE 5-12 DEFORMATION MODULUS VALUES CALCULATED USING ABOVE FORMULAS ................. 63
TABLE 5-13SUPPORT PRESSURE AND DEFORMATION ALONG THE HRT ALIGNMENT ........................ 68
TABLE 6-1 ROCK MASS RATING VALUE Q AND ROCK CLASSIFICATION ( WAPCOS,2011) .............. 75
TABLE 6-2 DIFFERENT ROCK CLASS AND SUPPORT DESIGN FOR PUNATSANGCHU II PROJECT........... 76
TABLE 6-3 SUPPORT COMBINATION FOR PUNATSANGCHU II HRT BASED ON Q METHOD................ 81
TABLE 6-4 SUPPORT COMBINATION FOR PUNATSANGCHU II BASED ON RMR METHOD .................. 82
TABLE 7-1 INPUT PARAMETERS FOR NUMERICAL MODEL ................................................................. 90
TABLE 7-2 ROCK SUPPORTS AND THEIR STRENGTH PARAMETERS USED IN MODELS ........................ 91
TABLE 7-3 SUPPORT COMBINATIONS AND THEIR STABILITY RESULTS .............................................. 96
TABLE 7-4 SUPPORT COMBINATION AND STABILITY RESULTS FOR SECTION AT CH.4167M ............ 101
TABLE 7-5 SUPPORT COMBINATIONS , THEIR STRESS AND DEFORMATION VALUES AT CH.8584.3M 106
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Regional map of Bhutan with the project location

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Introduction

1
1.1

INTRODUCTION
General

Electricity is an important requirement for socio economic development of any country. It is

produced from different sources including nuclear, thermal and hydropower etc. Electricity
produced from nuclear and thermal source is associated with huge negative impact on
environment, climate and human life. The recent Fukushima nuclear plant accident in Japan, 2011
has highlighted the severity of the risk posed by nuclear plant mishaps on environment and human
life. The electricity produced from renewable sources like solar, hydro, wind and tidal are clean
and environmental friendly. The geographic location of the country however defines the potential
capacity to produce energy from these sources. The agents of renewable sources are spatially
distributed over time and space. So every country does not have the access to clean energy source.
Besides except from hydro, production of energy from clean renewable sources such as solar,
tidal and wind is yet to be proven technically on massive commercial scale. In absence of better
alternate and yearly increasing demand for energy, the nuclear and thermal plants will continue
meeting the energy needs for years to come.
Hydropower produces clean energy but is not free from all negative impacts. The hydropower
projects bring about submergence of large fertile agricultural lands, displacement of peoples and
wild animals, and negative impact on environment adding to global warming. Large reservoir
schemes have huge negative impacts both on society and environment during and after
construction compared with run of river projects. It occupies large corridor of fertile lands and
disturbs habitat of wild animals. Building of weirs across the river stops the flow of sediments to
the downstream of dam location changing the hydraulic of the river system. It restricts the free
movement of fishes and other aquatic animals to upstream and downstream of the weir. Increased
incidences of methane and carbon dioxide production were also reported in the large reservoirs
(Hakon Sundt, SINTEF, 2011) from the decomposition of vegetation growths and debris under
the dammed water in the reservoir area.
For development activities, energy is required and it is the poor undeveloped countries that need
the energy most. Nothing comes free and in totality. To embarrass development certain decisions
have to be made. The best decision is to balance the advantage and disadvantage side of the
technology, and find a balance between the two. Hydropower is one of the best renewable sources
of energy. Strong rules should be enacted to prevent excess negative activities which can be
avoided. A balanced development approach to hydropower development should be the way out.
The run of river projects are one of the best options available from hydropower sector and this
technology should be taken advantage to reduce poverty and underdevelopment from the face of
the world.
1.2

Hydropower development in Bhutan

Bhutan is located in the eastern Himalayas, sandwiched between India in south, east and west and
Tibetan region of China in the north. It has total area of 38394 km2 spanning from 26.70N to
28.40N latitude and 88.70E to 92.20E longitude. The rugged mountainous terrain of the country
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with perennial rivers fed by the snowy mountains in the north make the country attractive for
hydropower potential.
Bhutan ventured into development of hydropower resources only in late 1970s. Till then, the
energy requirements were met from small mini and micro power plants in the urban towns, wood
and kerosene lamp in the rural areas which were the only source of energy. The construction of
countrys first mega hydropower project, 336MW Chukha power plant started in 1978 under the
financial and technical aid from government of India. The plant started generating power since
1986. Only after the commissioning of Chukha power plant, Bhutanese realized the importance of
hydropower industry. At present Bhutan has an installed capacity of 1488MW which is 5% of
its estimated 30000MW total potential. This total potential includes only the projects with
capacity greater than 10MW potential capacity. The power plants under generation includes
336MW Chukha (1986), 60MW Kurichu (2001), 64MW Basochu (2003), 1020MW Tala (2006)
and rest 8MW from mini projects. The present internal demand of the country is only 30% of its
present generation capacity and the rest 70% is exported to India making it the countrys highest
export commodity.
The hydropower sector in Bhutan got the much needed momentum after the first democratically
elected government came to power in 2008. The new government has given preference for
hydropower development to boost its economic development. Soon after it came to power, the
memorandum of understanding was signed with the government of India to jointly develop
10000MW hydropower project within year 2020. This move has accelerated the feasibility study
reports and finalization of DPR of many projects then under planning. Of the targeted 10000MW
by 2020, the construction works of 1200MW Punatsangchu I project started in 2008 and is
scheduled for completed by year 2016. Works for 990MW Punatsangchu II started in fall 2010
and is scheduled for completion by year 2017. The works for 720 MW Mangdechu project was
awarded in March, 2012 and construction works have already started. The DPR for 600MW
Kholongchu, 180MW Bunakha, 770MW Chamkharchu and 570MW Wangchu are already
finalized and the construction works are expected to start by the fall of 2012 (Kuensel, March,
2012).
1.3

Hydropower potential of Bhutan

The total hydropower potential of Bhutan is estimated at 30000MW with technically feasible
potential estimated at 23760MW (Power system master plan, 2003) for projects above 10MW
from 76 project sites. Since hydropower is capital intensive project, the country could not take
advantage of its benefit due to technical and financial constraints. Besides, the rugged terrains
make the transportation of material and machineries difficult further increasing the cost of
construction. Most of the potential project sites are located deep into the country side along the
five river basins of Bhutam namely Wangchu and Punatsangchu in west, Mangduechu and
Chamkharchu in central and Dangmechu in the east.
Department of renewable energy under the ministry of Economic Affairs is responsible for policy
framing and planning of the projects. Druk Green Power Corporation is a government owned
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entity entrusted with operation and maintenance of the commissioned projects. It is also
responsible to encourage and attract foreign investors into hydropower construction in Bhutan.
The countrys FDI policy was formulated and came into effect in 2012.
Bhutan has huge hydropower potential beyond its need but lags technical and financial ability,
India on other side suffers from huge energy crisis. This situation is transformed into win-win
opportunity for the two countries when a memorandum of understanding was signed between the
two countries in 2008. According to this, the government of India will help facilitate construction
of these projects by rendering technical and financial support while the Bhutan government will
sell the surplus power to India from these projects. Till 2012, the hydropower industry in Bhutan
was Indian centered for its construction except for 114 MW Dagachu which is under construction
with investment from Austrian government, Tata Company from India and DGPC from Bhutan
with different shares holdings. The RGoB has come up with the foreign direct investment policy
in hydropower in 2012. It is hoped that with this policy in place, more foreign investors will come
forward to develop the vast resource of hydropower in Bhutan.

Figure 1.1 location of 10000MW projects to be executed within year 2020 (Kuensel, 28/1/2012)
1.4

Object and Scope of study

The main objective of this thesis is related to the stability assessment of the headrace tunnel
system of Punatsangchhu II Hydropower Project. It discusses the geotechnical evaluation of rock
mass along the existing HRT layout, explore possible alternative layout, discusses on stability
assessment and support system of the headrace tunnel system. The object of the work includes

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Brief description of the project and engineering geological investigations at planning
phase.
Geological evaluation of the existing layout plan and discussion on the challenges
associated to the implementation in connection with rock engineering and stability
perspective.
Suggestion of an alternative layout and discussion on its features.
Review on the rock mass quality along the headrace tunnel alignment and assessment of
the rock mass mechanical properties.
Stability assessment of the headrace tunnel system using analytical, empirical and
numerical approaches and suggest optimum final rock support requirement.
1.5

Methodology

The required information and data on the project was collected from the project authority by the
candidate during the summer break of 2011. Based on this available information, the engineering
geology along the head race tunnel alignment was reviewed. The possible shortcomings of the
HRT alignment were studies in respect to stability and other design requirements and possible
alternate alignment proposed. Rock engineering theory of the existing alignment on stability
situations was reviewed. The rock mass classification system and the support systems were
discussed for adequacy. The stability of tunnels and the support systems is further analyzed using
Phase2 numerical methods. Concluding remarks from the findings of these studies were made.
However, it has to be stated that the study was totally academic in nature and the construction
works of the project have already started in 2011.

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2
2.1

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
General

Punatsangchhu-II hydroelectric project is one in the series of projects planned along the
Punatsangchu river basin in the western part of Bhutan. It is one of 10000MW projects planned to
be constructed within year 2020. It is a run of river scheme project utilizing the natural head along
Punatsangchu river with an installed capacity of 990MW. The construction works of the project
started in fall of 2011 and is expected to be complete by year 2017. After completion, it is
expected to generate an annual energy of 4214.5 GWh and benefit Bhutan by the sale of excess
energy to India.
An independent authority is created by GRoB for the implementation of the project. The authority
will be responsible for the successful implementation and will act as the main representative of
government for the consultants and the contractors. After commissioning the authority will be
dissolved and project handed over to Druk Green Power Corporation.
2.2

Project location

The project is located on Punatsangchhu river in Wangdue Phodrang Dzongkhag in Western

Bhutan. All project components are located between 22 km and 38 km downstream of Wangdue
Bridge along the national highway on the right bank of the river. The dam site is about 22.50 km
away from Wangdue Bridge.
All the project components are located within small radial distance from the national highway and
are already connected with access roads. Paro is the nearest airport and is located about 124 km to
the west. Bhutan does not have rail networks but the material can be transported till Hasimara rail
way station in west Bengal state of India and transported by road to the project site. The project
can be approached either from Phuntsholing via Thimphu from west or from Geylegphu via
Tsirang from central south of Bhutan. The road network from either side has all weather fully
widened road developed for transportation of big machineries and project equipments for
Punatsanchu-I project located just upstream of this project.
The national electrical transmission lines passes near by the project area. The required electricity
connections to all the constructions sites were already provided by the project authority before the
award of works to the main contractors. The minimum accommodation facilities for the labors
and site offices and stores for the main contractors is also constructed prior to the award of works.
This is expected to expedite the project completion saving loss of time by contractors during
initial mobilization period.
The main Wangdue town is located 22kms upstream of the dam site. Every basic commodity is
available in the town, besides there is a daily bus service from the project area to the border town
which can be used by the expatriate laborers and for extra commodities not available in the town.

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A government hospital is located within radial distance of 22km in the main town and there is
another bigger hospital being constructed by the Punatsangchu I project within the same vicinity.
The main national hospital in Thimphu is around 90kms from the dam site. The main contractors
are also mandated to have a full fledged dispensary units with qualified medical officer at all
project sites.

Figure 2.1 Map showing the project location (Google earth, 30/3/2012)
2.3

Regional geology

Punatsangchu project area is located within part of the Tethyan Belt of Bhutan Himalayas and at
the proposed dam site; rocks of Shumar Formation of Thimphu Group of Precambrian Age are
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exposed. The rocks of Thimpu Group in general are characterized by coarse-grained quartzofeldspathic biotite-muscovite gneiss, with bands of mica schist, quartzite and concordant veins of
foliated leucogranite, migmatites with minor metabasics and interbedded limestone. Garnet
crystals and porphyroblasts are also seen within this gneiss. The bedrock exposed in the project
area (reservoir and dam) is represented by garnetiferous, biotite bearing quartzofeldspathic gneiss
showing a general foliation trend N10oE to N40oE and dips 20o to 40o towards ESE to SE. At
places, the rocks exhibit broad warps as evidence from the swing in foliation from N40oE to N-S
and even up to N 10oW- S 10oE.
On the basis of study of Aerial Photographs for Punatsangchhu I HE Project, three sets of
Lineament have been picked up trending (i) N-S (ii) NW-SE and (iii) NE-SW. The N-S trending
lineaments aligned parallel to 90oE ridge, which is reported to be neotectonically active mainly in
the Bay of Bengal. The Punatsangchhu River probably flows along one such sympathetic northsouth trending lineaments at the dam site. The other two sets of lineament are less in abundance.
A few NE-SW/NW-SE trending lineaments picked up from the aerial photographs appear to be
faults as indicated by the shifting of main river course. The traces of N-S lineaments in colluvial
deposits along the valley slope marked by linear topographic elements of varying relief suggest
probable active neotectonism in the area.
Seismicity
The Kingdom of Bhutan is located in the eastern part of the Himalayan Orogenic Belt. It has also
been found that the recent seismicity in the Himalayas is the highest in 50 km wide zone in the
Lesser Himalaya, with a concentration of earthquake epicenters just south of the Main Central
Thrust (MCT) with respect to the project site, which may represent seismicity at a deeper part
associated with activity of the detachment surface connecting with the Main Boundary Thrust
(MBT; reported to be neotectonically active) and Himalayan Frontal Thrust (HFT; reported to be
neotectonically active) of the Himalayan Front.
The MCT in the Lesser Himalayan region is situated around 50 km south of Wangdue-Phodang.
However another small splay of the MCT is located around 8 km WNW of Wangdi in the Central
Himalayas. Similarly, MBT and HFT are also situated ~ 68 km and ~ 70 km south of Wangdi
respectively.
Three major faults are present in nearby areas. The most prominent is almost along the course of
Punatsangchhu river parallel to the 90oE line and traced from ~35 km south of Wangdi towards
south up to the Bhutan-India border. Another minor fault runs almost parallel to Punatsangchhu
river course (NW-SE) located around 25 km southeast of Wangdi. Another NW-SE trending fault
located 35 km. south of Wangdi was picked up on hills right bank of Punatsangchhu river. All
these faults show the manifestation by offset of different litho-packages and other related
geological evidences, e.g. abrupt change in Lithology, intrusion of granite and quartz reef,
presence of rock flour / mylonite etc. The seismic status of these faults is not known. Neotectonic
activity has been suspected in the D/S of earlier proposed powerhouse near village Kerabari.

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Therefore, detailed MEQ (Micro Earthquake) study is recommended to incorporate the data in the
design of the Project.
2.4

Project features

Punatsangchu II is a run of river hydropower project planned along the main Punatsangchu river.
828.3m long and 12m diameter circular diversion tunnel diverts the river along the left bank of the
river. A concrete gravity weir is constructed over the main river and the design discharge of 460m
3/sec flow is conveyed through 8584.3m long 11m diameter circular head race tunnel. The main
important features of the project are shown in table. 2.1. The detailed features of the project
components are given in the annexure A.
Table 2-1 Important features of Punatsangchu II project ( WAPCoS, 2012)
General
Type of scheme

Run Of River scheme

Maximum gross head

264m and a net design head of 236m

Design discharge

460m3/sec + 20% for silt flushing.

Power and Energy

Installed capacity

990 MW

Average annual energy

4214.5 GWh

Hydrology
Catchment Area

6835 km2

Storage Capacity

Gross capacity 7.0 MCM and 4.6MCM live capacity

Water levels

MWL/FRL El.843 m, MDD El.825m

Design flood

11723 m3/s PMF + 4300 m3/s GLOF

Head works
Dam

Concrete gravity,

Size of dam
Intake structure

213.5m long on top, 86m maximum height from the deepest

foundation level.
4 Nos. Bell mouth with 6.4m finished circular

Intake centreline level

El. 814.5m

Desilting chamber

4 Nos. and all underground

Size

19m wide, 24.70m height and 420m length, designed to

remove silt particles above 0.2mm size.

Head Race Tunnel

Shape and size

11.0m diameter circular shape

length

8584.3m

Surge shaft type

Open to sky , Orifice type

size

31.0m diameter with 2.8m restricted orifice size.

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height

137m

Butterfly valve chamber

120m length, 12m width and 21m height to accommodate 3

nos. 5.5m valve size.
3 nos. 400m long vertical shafts which bifurcate in horizontal
reach to feed a turbine each.
ASTM 537 Cl-II in the upper reach with thickness varying
from 22mm to 36mm and ASTM 517 Gr-F in lower reach
with thickness varying from 28mm to 32mm.

Pressure shafts
Steel liner grade

Power House complex

Power house

Underground type

Size

236m long 23m wide and 51m height.

Transformer hall

215.4m long, 14m wide and 26.5 m height.

Turbines

6 nos. Vertical shaft Francis turbine.

Downstream surge chamber

319 m length, 18m width and 58.5m height.

Tail race tunnel

11m diameter D shaped

length

3000m long

The whole civil components of the project construction are divided into three packages for
tendering and construction, each package with separate construction adits. This is done to avoid
conflict between the contractors during the construction and cause contractual problems for
payment at later stage. The access roads to every construction sites were also constructed by the
project authority before the award of the main contract works. Some of the major construction
machineries were also procured by the authority after discussions with the prospective bidders.
This decision by the project authority is expected to cut short construction time and make
contractors comfortable and make them concentrate on the main work from the first day of
awarding the works.

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3
3.1

PLANNING AND INVESTIGATION

Prefeasibility

The hydropower industry is one of the most important engines of developmental growth for the
Bhutanese economy. In absence of major manufacturing industries, the balance of the trade with
its trading partners India is mainly contributed by sale of electricity to India. Punatsangchu II
project is one of the 10000MW hydropower projects planned to be executed within year 2012.
The project is already under construction after the contract for the works were awarded in August,
2011. A brief history of the project features from prefeasibility to final design stage is reviewed
and discussed in this chapter.
3.1.1 Prefeasibility report (1992-1993)
The prefeasibility study for the project was carried out under grant from United Nation
Development Program (UNDP) and Norwegian Development Aid (NORAD) in 1992-1993 by
Norconsult International AS from Norway. The initial prefeasibility study of the project was
carried using topographic maps, geological maps and other relevant data. No field investigation
was carried out at this stage.
The survey was carried out with reference to local coordinate system established for this purpose.
A local datum was established using barometer reading only. The traverses carried out were not
connected to any Great Trigonometrical Station (GTS station). The dam and powerhouse areas
was surveyed and mapped in scales 1:2000 & 1:2500 scales using traditional ground survey
techniques. Apart from this, 1:50000, 1:10000 and 1:5000 maps were also used. No control
survey was carried out at this stage.
Geological field reconnaissance was carried out for dam and powerhouse sites using available
geological maps and interpretation from aerial photographs. The slope stability at the dam sites, in
the reservoir areas and above the tunnel entrances were studied. The findings from the desk study
indicated the first 2-3 km of the tunnel to be in granite gneiss and the rest of the tunnel will be in
intercalation of schist and granite with granite being the dominant rock in the last 4 km.
The result, a runoff river hydropower scheme utilizing a gross head of 245m was planned. An
underground power house with 5 numbers of Francis turbines to generate maximum power output
of 650 MW was proposed. The total catchment area considered was 6199 KM2 and the FRL and
TWL were kept at El.808m and El 563m respectively. The total length of the dam at crest was
envisaged to be 165m long.
3.1.2 Revised prefeasibility report (2003-2004)
After the initial prefeasibility study was conducted in 1992, no further study was continued on this
project. Only in 2004, NORCONSULT AS has submitted the power system master plan along
with the revised prefeasibility report to royal government of Bhutan. A brief description of
various project features of the revised report is discussed as below.

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Dam
The proposed diversion dam is concrete gravity structure with 190m long at the crest and dam
height of 42.5m above the river bed level and 70m above foundation. The estimated design flood
considered was 10128 m3/s. Four radial gates, 12 m wide and 19m high were provided.
Intake and Desilting Basin
Six intake structures consisting 3.6mX5.7m roller gates with sills at elevation 803.8m and trash
racks with cleaning equipment were provided. Six desilting chambers 250m long and with cross
sectional area 243m2 were provided with gated flushing tunnels arrangement.
Head Race Tunnel (HRT)/Penstock
The head race tunnel with length of 11.5km and cross sectional area of 88m2 was designed to
carry the design discharge of 437 m3/sec. Three surge shafts are provided at the end of HRT to
take care of surge problems. Vertical pressure shafts with total length of 365m including the
horizontal reach were provided.
Power House and Transformer Cavern
An underground powerhouse consisting 8 generating units with 5 numbers of Francis turbines
with rated output of 124MW each were proposed. The design flow was fixed at 54.6 m3/s per unit
and the maximum net head at 265m.The transformer cavern was placed parallel to the power
house cavern to house 8X3 single phase 420kV transformers.
Tail Race Tunnel
Three parallel tunnels of 350m length with cross sectional area of 88m2 was designed to
discharge the water back into the Punatsangchu river.
The most important features of the revised prefeasibility study report are given in Table 3.1. The
details of the project salient features are given under Appendix A.
Table 3-1 Important features of revised prefeasibility study report (WAPCoS, 2011)
Sl. No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17

Description
Type of scheme
Catchment area
Design flood
River bed elevation at dam site
Gross head
Design discharge
Installed capacity
Type of dam
Height of the dam
Crest length of dam
Length of head race tunnel
Numbers of HRT
Cross sectional area of HRT
Length of pressure shaft.
Power house type
Size of power house and machine hall
Tail race tunnel

Parameter
Run off scheme
7007 Km2
10128 m3/sec
788m
267m
437 m3/sec
992 MW
Concrete gravity
70m above foundation level
190m
11500m
3
88m2
365m, 3.5m
underground
130,000.00m3
2 nos. 350m long.

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3.2

Feasibility study report

This chapter deals with review of the prefeasibility study report and the details of the feasibility
study report.
3.2.1 Review of prefeasibility report
The Water and Power Consultancy Service (WAPCOS), India was awarded the work of
feasibility study by royal government of Bhutan in 2007. The consultant reviewed the
prefeasibility report after conducting site visits along the proposed project areas to study the
geological features.
After the initial review of the prefeasibility study report along with the actual geological
conditions at sites and possible changing circumstances to be met while implementing the project,
following observations were summarized.
Norconsult International AS project layout has been finalized mainly based on desk
studies and reconnaissance survey without conducting field investigation.
Norconsult international AS has considered FRL at EL 830m. However, the tail water
level of Punatsangchhu-I HE project which is on the upstream of this project have been
revised and fixed at EL 843m. This leaves an unutilized head of 13m.
Presence of thick soil overburden and poor geological conditions along the abutments of
proposed dam location were also envisaged based on observations of exposed rocks along
the road cut slope.
The occurrence of thick debris for a considerable distance on the proposed dam axis is
expected to result in longer dam length.
Presence of multiple shear zones in the underground power house complex was also
envisaged from the rock outcrop observed rocks along the road.
In absence of any geological investigation results, there remains high degree of uncertainties. To
get better knowledge on geology to help take better decision in reliable design to harness optimum
output from the projects, further detailed engineering geological investigations were
recommended to be carried out during feasibility study.
3.2.2 Feasibility study
After finalizing the need for the review of the project study, more detailed site investigation to
explore all possible alternate options for different project components were done. However the
main project sites have not changed much from the earlier studies. The overall view of the project
location is given in the figure 3.1 and following were the conclusion of feasibility study.

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Figure 3.1 Map showing the location of project components (Google earth, 2/2012)
Dam axis proposed in PFR
The dam axis is located 2km downstream of tail water outlet of Punatsangchu I project (figure
3.2). The geological features of the sites are as discussed below.
Left bank: - Talus/scree is present from the river edge to about 30m-35m above it. Beyond this
gneiss is exposed up to the top of hill. Rock mass is expected at a shallow depth below the
tallus/scree on this bank. The river bed is covered with fluvial deposits. Gneissic rock outcrop is
seen at 150m-200m upstream of this location on the left bank.
Right bank:- There is 50m-60m wide slide debris from the river edge up to nearly 35m-40m
above the river bed level. Thereafter, towards the abutment, partly weathered gneissic rock having
near vertical escarpment is present.
The occurrence of thick debris for a considerable distance on the right bank will result a longer
dam axis. Besides, the outfall level of the tail water from the Punatsangchu I project is revised to
El. 845m which could result to the loss of available head.
Alternate Dam axis-I
This dam axis is located 50m upstream of PFR site, at Lat. 270 18 58.7, Long. 890 56 50. It is
located upstream of a small Brooke confluence with main river (Refer fig. 3.2). Here, the river
flows is S400E and the direction of dam axis will be N550E.
Left bank: - The geological condition on the left bank shall be almost similar to that of the PFR
site.
Right bank:- The rock line has shifted nearer to the right bank. A 30m wide debris zone is present
between the right river edge and the rocky scarp (partly weathered biotite gneiss) on the hill side.
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The rock bottom line is seen at 20 to 25m above the river edge. The intake structure is located
almost at same site of site in PFR dam site. The initial intake structure may pass through debris
where cut and cover sections is required.
Here the rock mass is partially weathered and traversed by four sets of joints/fractures. The
details of the foliation and cross jointing are given in table 3.2. The upstream dipping foliation of
the rock with dam axis is considered favorable condition for the stability of the dam.
Table 3-2 Foliation and cross jointing details of alternate dam axis I
Type of jointing

Strike direction

Dip direction

Remark

Foliation joint Jf1

Foliation joint Jf2
Cross jointing Jz1

N150E
N1200-1400E
N200 - 600E

250-400 SE
300-500 SW
200 250 SE

Foliation joint
Swing of foliation
Shear planes associated with gouge (5 to
20m thick) and slicken sliding are
commonly observed.

Cross jointing Jz2

N1100-1300 E

200 250 NE

Main scarp on the right bank.

Alternate Dam Axis II

This dam Axis is located 400m downstream of the PFR dam site, at Lat. 270 18 44.9, and long.
890 57 13.8, (refer Fig.3.2). Here, the river flows towards S500E and the direction of dam axis
shall be at N400E.
Right bank:- Partially weathered gneiss is exposed 25m away from the river edge, 10m above
the road bench (20-25m above the river edge). The stretch between the river and rocky
escarpment is covered with debris. The rocky scarp extends to a height of 60-70m from the river
edge.
Left bank:
Talus/scree is present 40-50m above the river level and thereafter partially
weathered gneissic rock is exposed. The rock is expected at a shallow depth below the talus/scree.
The dip and strike direction of the gneissosity/foliation and the prominent cross joints are given in
Table. 3.3 below.

Table 3-3 Foliation and cross jointing details for alternate dam axis II
Sl. No.
Foliation joint Jf1

Strike
N1200-1400E

Dip, dip direction

300-500SW

Remarks
Foliation joints

Shear joints Jz1

N500-600E

200- 250SE

Shear planes associated with gouge

(5 to 20m thick) and slicken sliding
are commonly observed

Cross joints Jz2

N1150-1500E

600 - 800 NW

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Beside the above joints, minor shears trending parallel to foliations have also dissected the rock
mass.
Dam Axis III
This dam axis is located at 60m - 70m downstream of dam axis-II, at Lat. 270 18 42.2 and
Long.890 57 17.8 (refer fig. 3.2). Here, the river flows at S600E and the direction of dam axis
shall be at N300E. The geological features are same to that of axis-II.
Right bank:- Partially weathered gneiss rock occurs at distance of 15m-20m from the river edge
to the road level and upslope. The rock is closest to river edge compared to other sites. This
avoids need for cut and cover sections for the intake tunnels.
Due to the closeness of rock line to the river edge, this dam axis is geotechnically favored over
other locations. However final selection of the dam axis should be made after considering intake
level and other geotechnical results of field core drilling investigation results.
Table 3-4 Details of foliation and cross jointing details at alternate dam axis III
Sl. No.
Foliation joint Jf1

Strike
N150E

Dip, dip direction

750SE

Remarks
Foliation

Foliation joint Jf2

N1200-1400E

300-500 SW

Foliation swing

Cross joints Jz1

N200-600E

200-250SE

Cross joints Jz2

N1100-1300E

200- 250NE

5cm - 20cm wide shears marked with

slicken slides at places.
Main scarp on the right bank.

Beside the above joints, a number of minor shears tending parallel to foliation also dissects the
rock mass.

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Planning and Investigation

Figure 3.2 Location of different dam axis (Google earth, 2/2012)

Power House
An underground powerhouse is recommended on the right bank of Punatsangchhu, at about 1km
downstream of the confluence of Di Chu River. Here mainly leuco-granite with small-undigested
bands of schist is seen exposed from road bench to the river edge, and talus/debris present above
the road bench. The proposed powerhouse cavern is located inside this spur. The gouge thickness
in the shear zones ranges from few centimeters to 2m. The steeply dipping joint sets Jz1 & Jz2
may not be present at the powerhouse cavern. The shear joint Jz3 is likely to be encountered at the
powerhouse level. At the TRT outfall, shear zones Jz1 & Jz2 are also present. The attitudes of the
shear zones are presented in table 3.5 along with other major jointing. For location refer fig.3.3
Table 3-5 Details of major joint sets at power house location
Sl. No.
Foliation Jf1
Shear zones Js1
Cross joints Jz1
Cross joints Jz2

Strike
N1200-1300E
N700-800E
N700E
N1200-1600E

Dip, dip direction

300SW
700-800 SE
800NW
300SW

Remarks
foliation
Shear zones
Conjugate/often sheared
Conjugate/often, shear/thrust

There is high likelihood of encountering the shear zones at the power house location. The power
house cannot be shifted downstream due to worsening geological conditions. So this site is not
good for power house location.
Surface power house
A surface powerhouse site was tentatively selected just upstream of the proposed TRT outfall in
between two nala depressions. Here steeply dipping shear zones are present in close vicinity of
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Planning and Investigation

TRT outfall. The rock is exposed from river edge till road bench. A bench in rock has to be
excavated for the powerhouse with adequate slope stabilization. Number of shear zones
mentioned above is likely to intersect the surge shaft and penstock tunnels.
Underground power house
Alternatively, an underground powerhouse may be considered below the centre line of the spur of
the ridge opposite to the confluence of Di Chu River (refer fig. 3.3). Reconnaissance traverses
along the road cutting indicate no major shear zones likely to encounter at power house location.
TRT outfall may be considered at same location of PFR study location to avoid head loss. This
will result into longer length of TRT passing through shear zones described in table 3.5. However,
detailed geological mapping on larger scale is required to confirm the detailed projections of shear
zones to power house, surge shaft and TRT area.

Figure 3.3 Locations of alternate power house sites (Google earth, 2/2012)
Head Race Tunnel (HRT)
The HRT alignment starts in Gneiss rock belonging to Thimphu formation. In the later reach,
tunnel alignment will be dominated by rocks of Schistose and leuco-granite belonging to Chukha
formations. About 2.5 km length of HRT pass through gneiss rock of the Thimpu formation and
rest will pass through schist rock intruded by leuco-granite of Chukka Formation. The HRT
alignment will intersect the foliation at angle varying from 100 to 450 considering the foliation
trend from N 150 E to N 1200E of gneiss rocks belonging to Thimpu formation. The
shear/fault/thrust encountered at the powerhouse complex may intersect the HRT. Detailed
geotechnical investigation is required to delineate the tunneling condition along the proposed
HRT alignment.
3.2.3 Conclusion on feasibility report
The results of the feasibility report for different components of the project are summarized
hereunder.
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Dam Site
After a through comparison of all the possible alternate sites, the alternate dam axis-III (ref.
3.2.1.4) is found suitable and recommended for detailed geotechnical investigation.
Powerhouse site
The initial site proposed at PFR study level is intruded by multiple shear and weakness zones.
This site is not feasible for power house location. The other two power house options may be
considered for further field investigation.
Head Race Tunnel
The traversing along the road cutting indicates that initial 2.5 km of the HRT will go through
gneiss rock of Thimphu formation. The remaining reach will pass through schist and leuco-granite
of Chukha formation with leucogranite occurring as intrusive in behavior. The slide debris
covering this formation made it difficult to delineate the rock boundary between the two rock
types. Considering the incidences and attitudes of the shear/fault/thrust zones near the powerhouse
complex, it is apprehended it will intersect the HRT and require confirmation by detail study.
3.3

Detailed Design Phase

The possible different alternative sites for all the different components of the project were
reviewed in the feasibility study. The final sites were selected considering their advantage over
the other alternate sites. Accordingly, the required geotechnical field investigations were carried
out at the respective sites. The main field and laboratory studies includes following.
Geological mapping of all project sites.
Core drilling including permeability test for various project sites.
Drifting at the dam site and
Other geotechnical laboratory tests.
The different types of investigation carried at different sites are given in table 3.6. The detail of
findings from different field and laboratory studies is discussed in the following sections.
Dam Site:After examining all possible alternate sites, the alternate site located at 825m d/s of PFR dam axis
is chosen. To study the physical geological condition of rocks along the proposed de-silting
chamber, an exploratory drift was excavated during the preconstruction stage. In addition, some
rock mechanics tests were also conducted. The results from the test are discussed in following
chapters.

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Figure 3.4 Location of final dam axis ( Google earth 3/2012)

Table 3-6 List of geological and geotechnical investigation done at different sites
Project Component

Field Investigation

Dam Site

Geological Mapping
Core drilling 15 nos. with permeability tests.
Laboratory Tests
Drifting on both abutments

Intake

Geological Mapping
Core drilling 1 nos. with permeability test
Laboratory tests

Head Race Tunnel

(HRT)

Geological mapping

Adits

Geological mapping

Pressure Shaft

Geological mapping
Core drilling 2 nos.

Surge Shaft

Geological mapping
Core drilling 1 no.
Laboratory Test

Power House
Complex

Geological mapping
Core drilling 5 nos. Three for surface and 2 nos. for
underground power house.
Laboratory Test

Tail Race Channel

Geological mapping

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Power House:After examining all alternatives, the surface power house option was found preferable. Here,
Leucogranite with gneiss and schist enclaves was exposed along the proposed pressure shaft area.
These rocks were traversed by two major joints sets trending NW-SE, dipping steeply NW
direction. Besides these, some shallow dipping random joints sets are also presents. Other details
are discussed in following sections
3.3.1 Head works
Geological mapping of the final Dam axis, located 825m d /s of the Prefeasibility dam site, was
carried out on 1:2000 scale covering 500m d/s and 700m u/s of proposed site and up to elevation
El. 900m on either side. The river flows at N140oE and the 0rientation of the dam axis is finalized
at N38oE. The riverbed level at the proposed dam site is El. 788m.
The Left Bank shows a gentle slope of 30o-35o. This bank is covered with thick debris up to El.
880m, above it hard and moderately weathered quartzo felspathic gneiss and Biotite gneiss are
exposed. The rock foliation near El. 881 shows wide variation from N-S/40oSE to N70oE /15o SE.
In the river bed, fluvial deposits consisting of pebbles, cobbles, boulders and very big rock blocks
(>10m) are present. The width of the river Channel at the proposed dam axis is around 70m.
The right bank is sloping near vertical up to elevation 830m and the slope gets gentle at 35o-40o
up to elevation 910m. This bank forms rocky escarpment. Quartzo felspathic gneiss/Quartz biotite
gneiss is found exposed mainly along the road cut level. Small patch of gneiss rock is also
exposed below the road level downstream of dam axis. Here the foliation in gneiss varies from
N100oE/10oSW to N50oE/30o-35oSE.This swing of foliation is due to warping of the rock.
However the general trend of the foliation is N60o-70oE/30oSouth east.
The rocks are traversed by six joints sets. A few thin shear zones mainly foliation shears varying
in thickness from 5cm to 20cm with 2cm to 3cm thick gouge infill have also traversed the rocks.
here biotite gneiss/quartzo-feldspathic Gneiss form the foundation rock, so no major problem is
anticipated except the possibility of conspicuous shear zone running parallel to the river channel
at the left bank where seepage through the dam foundation may be anticipated.
Drilling
Sixteen boreholes were drilled at the dam complex to establish the rock profile, rock mass
condition and porosity of rock for dam foundation, along the intake and spillway sites. The
summarized logs of these boreholes are given in table 3.11. From core logging results, at about
20m along the dam axis on the left bank, the depth to bedrock has suddenly increased to 42m i.e.
R.L.763m (DH-5) which is 5-6m below the rock level of DH-3. This could be indication of a
buried channel formed due to either a master joint/shear zone along the left bank. The very poor
core recovery in the drill holes may indicate the presence of possible shear zones. The exact
geometry of the shear zones could only be established during the excavation of the foundation.
Suitable treatment should be provided to prevent the leakage/seepage of water and improve
stability of the dam.
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Figure 3.5 Gneiss rock outcrop at Dam site

Water Percolation Test
Water percolation tests were carried out in drilled holes. The permeability value observed in
general was very high. This suggests the need for foundation treatment by grouting to minimize
seepage. Groutability tests needs to be conducted to ascertain the rock mass groutability.
Drift
The drifting work was carried out on both banks of dam axis to demarcate the depth of stripping
and to get better information on the rock mass. From the result of geological logging of drifting
works, the Q value of the rock mass varies from 0.6 (Class V) to 4.7 (Class-III) with average
range in Class-IV.
Intake
All four intakes were located within 125m upstream of dam axis on the right bank. Here the rock
is exposed at the hill side road edge near the axis but gradually the rock line moves away towards
the hill in the u/s of the dam axis. At 125m upstream, the exposed rock was seen at EL. 822m i.e.
at about 45 m away from the river edge. There are debris present between the rock line and the
river edge. Due to the rock line moving towards the hill side in the u/s, the first intake portal will
be in rock while other three intake portals need cut and cover sections for shorter distance. On
examination of the surface exposure and the log results of drill hole (DH-21) it is interpreted as
fairly good quartzo-feldspathic gneiss in the area.
Under Ground Desilting Chambers
Four underground Desilting Chambers with dimension 17/19mX24.5mX420m is designed on the
right bank. Rocky outcrops of biotite gneiss, quartzose gneiss belonging to Thimphu Shumar
Formation occasionally intruded by pegmatite were seen in this area. The foliation varies from
N140oE to N80oE dipping 5o-30o towards east. The general foliation is N60o-80oE/ 30oSE. Besides
this, six set of prominent joints are also recorded in the area. However, the outcrop pattern in the
area is seen to be controlled mainly by 2 master joints trending N65oE/50o-60oNE and N65oE/80o
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SE. A tentative desilting chamber orientation along L-axis at N130oE was provided. The joint
N110oE/80oNE is seen as a conspicuous joint which is often clay filled. If this joint set is present
in the crown of desilting caverns, the desilting chamber orientation may have to be slightly
modified.
Diversion Tunnels
The four number of Intakes and Underground Desilting Chambers were located on the right bank,
as such the Diversion Tunnel was proposed on the left bank to avoid interference with these
structures located at different levels on the right bank.
Reservoir Competency
The reservoir is located in a very narrow gorge. As such, the lateral spread of the reservoir is less.
In general the slope of both banks is very steep. High hills and uprising slopes are present on both
sides of the reservoir for considerable distance. No conspicuous saddle is seen within the limit of
the reservoir rim so there are little chances of any leakage from the reservoir to adjacent river
basin through joints and other lineaments.
Colluviums deposit / slope wash material was present at few places on the banks of the river,
especially along the right bank. Slope stability problem is not anticipated in the terrace on the left
bank. The possible occurrences of landslides within the saturated colluviums/ slope wash debris
during drawdown condition cannot be completely ruled out.
3.3.2 Head Race Tunnel
The head race tunnel (HRT) is 8.5km long and 11.00m diameter with slope angle of 1:309
designed on the right bank of Punatsangchhu river to carry water from the reservoir to the
proposed power house for generating power. To ensure adequate lateral and vertical rock cover
while crossing the conspicuous stream channels, fournumber of kinks were provided at Ch
1735m, Ch 4821.5m, Ch 6113m and Ch. 8426.9m (refer fig.4.5). One construction adits each at
intake and near surge shaft were provided. In addition, three more adits located at Rd 1053.3m,
RD 4740.1m and Rd 8482m were provided to facilitate effective construction. The Invert Level of
the HRT at the intake is kept at El. 803.50m while at the Surge Shaft location the Invert Level is
El.764.5m.
Geological map along the proposed tunnel alignment was prepared on scale 1: 5000. The major
part of the tunnel alignment is covered in debris and soil. It is established from the traverses
survey that the minimum and maximum vertical rock cover varies between 80m and 600m. The
rock cover of about 80.00m is available at the intersection zones of the HRT with Petshochhu at
Ch. 1765m, and about 128.00m at Bisokha at Ch. 4176m. The average rock cover along the major
section of the HRT is above 300m. From the topography map it is seen that sufficient lateral rock
cover will also be available throughout the entire stretch of the proposed tunnel alignment.
The geology, rock mass quality and tunneling condition along the proposed tunnel alignment are
discussed in the following three Sections.

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3.3.2.1 Dam axis (0.0m) to Adit-I (Ch. 1053.3m)

The initial 980m tunnel stretch will pass through fresh to partially weathered qurartzo-feldspathic
gneiss. The rocks are traversed by two sets of conspicuous joints. From Ch.980m to Adit-I the
rock is represented by fresh grey biotite gneiss with increasing amount of quartzo-feldspathic
materials. Leucogranite are found exposed at some places along road cutting. The Leucogranite
appears to be intrusive into the Biotite gneiss and Quartzo-feldspathic gneiss. The general
gneissosity of the rocks and the joint sets traversing the rock mass is presented in table 3.7. Five
numbers of Shear Zones were recorded in this stretch.
Table 3-7 Foliation details of the HRT between Ch 0m to Adit I
Type of Jointing
Foliation joint Jf1
Foliation joint Jf2
Cross Joints Jz1
Cross joints Jz2

Strike direction
N450-800E
N1300-1400E
N00-50E
EW

Dip direction
200-300 SE
200-300SE
Sub vertical
Sub vertical

Remark
Grey biotite gneiss and quartzo feldspathic
gneiss.
Conspicuous joints.

The tunnel is oriented slightly askew to the gneissosity of the rock, so fair condition of tunneling
is expected along it. The low dipping of the foliation and the cross joints will result into frequent
over breakages from the crown of the tunnel. Wedge formation on the crown of the tunnel due to
intersection of joint sets is also anticipated.The tentative RMR and Q values of the above rocks
are as given in table 3.10
3.3.2.2 Adit -I (Ch. 1053.3) to Adit-II (Ch. 4740.1m)
This 3686.81m stretch of the Tunnel alignment will pass through alternate bands of fresh to
partially weathered biotite gneiss/ quartzo-feldspathic gneiss and leucogranite (predominant), the
latter appears to be intrusive into the former. The most common foliation and cross joint
orientations are given in table. 3.8
Table 3-8 Foliation details of the rock mass of HRT between Adit I and Adit II
Type of Jointing

Strike
direction

Dip
direction

Foliation joints Jf1

N1250-1500E

200-500SE

Shear joint Js

N650E

650SE

Remark
Weathered biotite gneiss and quartzo
feldspathic gneiss with leucogranite intrusion.
150cm thick shear with 160m shattered width.
At Ch.3839m

The major part of tunnel alignment passes through high debris making it difficult to establish the
actual tunneling condition. More shear zones covered under the debris cannot be ruled out. The
tunnel alignment is oriented askew to the foliation indicating a fair to favorable condition of
tunneling. The tunnel alignment crosses the two nalas i.e Petsochu and Bickhachu at Ch. 1762m
and Ch. 4176m respectively in this reach. Due to presence of fractured shear zone, and the nala
crossing, occurrence of heavy seepage into the tunnel cannot be ruled out. A hidden shear zones
under thick debris is suspecteded which may pose a great threat to tunneling especially when
charged with seepage water. The contacts between biotite gneiss/quartzo feldspathic gneiss and
the intrusive leucogranite may represent zones of weakness or may be sheared as observed along
the road cut sections. The rock mass parameters and rock class are given in table 3.10.
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3.3.2.3 Adit-II (Ch.4740.1m) to Adit-III (Ch.8482m)

The tunnel alignment is covered with debris in most of this length. The rocks are represented by
well foliated partially weathered to fresh biotite gneiss with numbers of both concordant and
discordant bands of intrusive leucogranite. The incidences of leucogranite are likely to be more
towards the adit-III. The general foliation and joint orientations are given in table 3.9. Besides the
main joint, few random sets of joints were also recorded in the leucogranite.
Table 3-9 Foliation and cross joint details for rock mass between Adit II and Adit III
Type of Jointing

Strike direction

Dip direction

Foliation joints Jf

N1250-1450E

300-600SE

Cross joints Jz1

Cross joint Jz2
Shear zone JS1

N 00-150E
N500-8500E
N750-800E

Sub vertical SE
Sub vertical SE
450-500NW

Remark
Biotite gneiss/leucogranite foliation
direction.
Conspicuous joins
Conspicuous joins
Shear zone

One set of shear zone may cross the tunnel alignment at Ch.4989m and Ch.8359m along with a
number of shear zones which may be present under the debris covered area.
As the tunnel alignment in this stretch also runs askew to the foliation trend, it is interpreted as
fair condition of tunneling. One sub vertical N105oE trending joints in the leucogranite running
almost parallel with the tunnel alignment may give rise to over breakages problems at tunnel
crossing. The wedges are likely to be formed by the intersection of the above three conspicuous
sets of joints in the biotite gneiss along with some over breaks from tunnel crown. In view of
massive nature of leucogranite and very high rock cover, the possibility of rock bursting in this
stretch particularly between Ch.5319m and Ch.6339m is anticipated. The rock mass parameters
and rock class is given in table 3.10
3.3.2.4 Adit-III (Ch.8482m) To Surge Shaft (Ch.8584.3m)
This last 102m stretch of the tunnel will pass through predominantly fresh to partially weathered
biotite gneiss and few inter beds of quartzite with numbers of discordant and concordant bands of
leucogranite. As the major part of this stretch of the tunnel is covered with debris, the geological
mapping was done by traversing from the nearby nala and the surface power house location. The
projected rock mass parameters and rock class is given in table 3.10.
At least five numbers of shear zones will be intersecting the HRT at different locations. If the
shear zones and crushed rock zones crosses the charged water bodies, possibility of heavy water
seepage is expected requiring advance draining, fore poling and grouting.

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Table 3-10 Rock mass classification along the HRT alignment (WAPCoS, 2011)
Location
Dam axis ( Ch. 0.0m) to
Adit-I Ch.1053.3m)

Adit I ( Ch.1053.3m ) to
Adit II(Ch. 4740.1m)
Adit II(Ch.4740.1m) to
Adit III(8482m)
Adit III (Ch.8482m) to
Surge Shaft
(Ch.8584.3m)

Rock type
Bioitie gneiss
Quartzo feldspathic
gneiss
Leucogranite
intrusion
Biotite gneiss

Q-Value
6.01
0.5-3.76

RMR Value
50-65
54-77

Rock class
Class III
Class-III to Class V

1.3

58

Class IV

1.39 -3.47

58-67

Class III to Class IV

Leucogranite
intrusion.
Biotite gneiss

0.65-5.21

49-67

Class III To Class V

0.80-3.77

43-69

Class III To Class V

Leucogranite
intrusion.
Biotite gneiss

1.15-5.9

57-70

Class IV to Class III

0.32 3.27

50-63

Class III to Class V

Leucogranite
intrusion.

1.31- 5.47

33-70

Class III to Class IV

3.3.3 Geotechnical evaluation of adit portals

To facilitate the construction of various project components, many construction adits were
provided. The geology along these construction adits are discussed in this section.
Portal for Adit to HRT Intake
The length of this adit would be around 374.60m aligned N68oE direction. At the proposed portal
site, partially weathered to fresh quartzo-feldspathic gneiss is traversed by two conspicuous sets
of joints. The geotechnical appraisal revealed no major problem likely to be faced in and around
this portal.
Portal for adit to Gate Chamber
The adit is aligned in N40oE direction. At the adit portal good rock face of partially weathered
quarzo-feldspathic gneiss traversed by two conspicuous sets of joints is projected. No major
problem would be encountered for construction of this portal and driving of the adit.
Portal of Adit -1 to HRT
Partially weathered to fresh biotite gneiss sub-horizontal in thin bands of leucogranite is exposed
at the proposed adit portal site. The rock is traversed by 3 conspicuous joint sets besides foliation
joint. Intersection of these joints may give rise to formation of wedges in the crown. However it is
tentatively established that the adit portal site is located on a stable rock face.
Portal of Adit -2 to HRT
This adit portal is located on rock face comprising partially weathered to fresh biotite gneiss with
thin concordant/discordant bands of leucogranite with two joint sets. The geotechnical evaluation
of the site condition reveals less likelihood of any major problems at this site.

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Planning and Investigation

Portal of Adit-3 to HRT

At the proposed portal site partially weathered to fresh leucogranite with patches of boitite gneiss
is exposed. The rock is traversed by two conspicuous sets of joints besides the foliation joint. No
major problem for construction of the adit portal is anticipated.
3.3.4 Power house Complex
The possible option of one underground power house and two surface power house sites were
selected through geotechnical mapping. The rocks in this area are represented by biotite gneiss/
quartzo-feldspathic gneiss/ thin bands of quartzite with both concordant and discordant bodies of
intrusive leucogranite, the latter predominating over the former.
Underground Power House
From result of reconnaissance and geological mapping survey, a possible underground power
house site is located in between two nalas due east of Surge Shaft location. The length axis of the
power house cavern is tentatively placed in N-S direction based on available joint and shear data.
The rock exposed at this site is mainly leucocratic granite with enclaves of schist, gneiss and
quartzite of Chukha formation. No foliation is seen in the exposed leucocratic granite and the
foliation in the enclaves of the Chukha formation is highly disturbed. The rocks are traversed by a
numerous joints sets and affected by number of prominent shear zones.

Figure 3.6 Surge Shaft location

Surface Power House

Based on geological mapping, two alternative sites were selected for the proposed surface power
house with same surge shaft location. The first site is located on a terrace at the right bank of
Punatsangchhu river immediately downstream of Dichu confluence and the other at the TRT
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outfall of the underground power house site. The TRT outfall site is located in a depression where
rock is exposed under shallow overburden cover. However a nala flowing through the middle part
of this site has to be diverted to have sufficient space for the proposed surface power house. In
this case a number of major and minor shears will intersect the penstock /pressure shaft tunnels
for a considerable length. It is not desirable to drive the pressure tunnels through this structurally
disturbed zone, hence this site was not considered suitable.
It may be mentioned here that, the location of the power house was however changed during the
last phase of tendering stage. The final power house was shifted upstream to perhaps avoid the
many shear zones crossing power house cavern. The final location is given in fig. 3.3
Analysis of rock samples
The rock samples were collected from the core drilled holes both from dam complex area and the
power house complex. The important tests include uniaxial compressive strength, Youngs
modulus of elasticity values and poissons values. The results of the laboratory test are presented
in table 3.11 both for dam site and power house complex.

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Planning and Investigation

Diametric
(MPa)

Brazilian test
(MPa)

UCS
MPa

E-Modulus
MPa

poisson ratio

27.3

0.25

2.70

2.98

3.15

8.42

50.09

6696.8

0.32

25.70

0.37

2.67

4.87

2.26

7.82

72.14

12534.6

0.36

25.40

0.35

2.65

4.75

3.17

9.38

40.55

5843.3

0.34

25.4

25.5

0.34

2.64

4.96

2.62

8.30

52.53

6412.30

0.26

25.9
0

25.97

0.33

2.67

4.39

2.80

8.48

53.83

7871.75

0.32

27.2
25.6
0
25.4
0

(%)

Axial (MPa)

(KN/m3)

Sp. Gr.

55.75

Porosity

All
holes

Point load
test

sat

Average
Values

Values at the Dam site

Rock type Quartz gneiss

DH-03.
93
L/B
DH-08,
45
R/B
DH-21.
45
R/B
DH-06.
R/B
150m
40
D/S

dry
( KN/m3)

Depth of hole (m)

B H No. &
location.

Location

Table 3-11 Laboratory test results for core drilling at different project sites

Average
values

Values at power house site

Values at dam site

Rock Type Leucogranite

DH0703, L/B

40

26.2

26.3

0.37

2.65

3.81

3.12

7.95

42.83

3435.5

0.31

DH-01.
R/B

95

25.70

25.80

0.40

2.65

4.84

2.81

7.46

78.73

8532.8

0.40

DH-19.
Pressur
e shaft

60

25.20

25.30

0.46

2.67

4.49

3.41

6.44

43.77

5645.6

0.24

DH-17.
Surge
shaft

84

27.30

27.40

0.42

2.65

1.63

3.30

5.71

51.79

3878.90

0.21

DH-15.
Power
house

90

24.60

24.70

0.32

2.69

3.27

2.53

7.78

25.20

2805.6

0.20

All
holes

73.80

25.80

25.82

0.39

2.66

3.60

3.0

7.10

48.46

4859.68

.27

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REVIEW OF THE HEAD RACE TUNNEL ALIGNMENT

The water from the head works will be conveyed to the power house through 8.5km long, 11m
diameter modified horse shoe type head race tunnel. The whole length of the head race tunnel will
be concrete lined with thickness varying from 500mm to 675mm depending on the type of rock
mass. Further, based on rock mass competency, steel bar reinforcement and structural steel
supports were designed in the areas of poor and extremely poor geological reaches respectively.
This chapter deals with discussion on geology along the HRT alignment, possible stress related
and other problems along the HRT alignment and ends by proposing an alternate alignment to the
existing one.
4.1

Geological features along the HRT alignment

The proposed head race tunnel has a total length of 8584.28m long with an excavation diameter
varying from 12m in very good rock to 12.35m in poor and extremely poor rock mass. The tunnel
has finished diameter of 11m.
The rock type in initial reaches of the tunnel through is partially weathered quartzo feldspathic
gneiss and fresh biotite gneiss. The rock class slowly changes to biotite gneiss with bands of
intrusive leucogranite into biotite gneiss in the middle reach. In the last reaches, leucogranite rock
is dominat. The rock mass classification was done using both Q and RMR system. The Bartons Q
value of the rock mass along the tunnel ranges from lowest of Q=0.32 to maximum of Q=6. The
summarized values of the rock mass parameters are given in table 4.4. A brief geotechnical aspect
of HRT along different chainage is discussed hereunder.
4.1.1 Dam axis (0.0m) to Adit-I (Ch. 1053.3m)
The tunnel passes through mixture of fresh to partially weathered qurartzo-feldspathic gneiss to
biotite gneiss with intrusive leucogranite into biotite gneiss. The strike and dip details of the
foliation and cross jointing are tabulated in table 4.1. The foliation and jointing are also presented
in joint rosette along with the tunnel alignment orientation.
Table 4-1 Foliation and joint details of the rock mass for HRT between Ch. 0.0m to Adit I
Type of Jointing
Foliation joint Jf1
Foliation joint Jf2
Cross Joints Jz1
Cross joints Jz2

Strike direction
N450-800E
N1300-1400E
N00-50E
EW

Dip direction
200-300 SE
200-300SE
Sub vertical
Sub vertical

Remark
Grey biotite gneiss and quartzo
feldspathic gneiss.
Conspicuous joints.

The dip direction of both the foliation and cross joints is along the same direction. This may be
considered favorable. If the dip direction of the two were in opposite direction, it may result in
rock falls from the crown and the walls of the tunnel.
The tunnel is aligned with the foliation jf1 at an angle of 840 and the tunnel is aligned at 230 with
the main gneissosity. However, the tunnel alignment is going semi perpendicular with the cross
joints.
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Figure 4.1 Joint Rosette for rock mass from Ch. 0.0m to Adit I

The vertical rock cover in this reach on average is 300m. The stretch is intersected by a sub
vertical shear zone at Ch.110m-120m. Another shear zone intersects the tunnel alignment at
Ch.750m. dipping 500-600SW. Bartons Q values are given in table.4.4
4.1.2 Adit-I (Ch. 1053.3m) to Adit-IICh. 4740.10m
This stretch of the Tunnel will probably pass through alternate bands of fresh to partially
weathered Biotite Gneiss/ Quartzo-feldspathic gneiss and Leucogranite (predominant),
leucogranite occurring as intrusive into former. The most common foliation and cross joint
orientations are given in table. 4.2
Table 4-2 Foliation and joint details for rock mass between Adit I and Adit II
Type of Jointing

Strike direction

Foliation joints Jf1

N1250-1500E

Dip
direction
200-500SE

Shear joint Js

N650E

650SE

Remark
Weathered biotite gneiss and
quartzo feldspathic gneiss with
leucogranite intrusion.
150cm thick shear with 160m
shattered width. At Ch.3839m

The foliation and shear joints are both dipping in same south east direction which is favorable
from the risk of rock falls from the crown and the walls. But, the tunnel orientation is going askew
with the main foliation direction. But, the tunnel orientation cannot be changed much since the
stretch has to be aligned accounting the alignment of preceding and succeeding tunnel stretch.
The tunnel alignment is at 360 angle with the main foliation direction. The cross joint orientation
is also favorable with the tunnel alignment.

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Figure 4.2 Joint Rosette for the rock mass between Adit I and Adit II

The vertical rock cover varies from 250m at adit junction to 80m at Ch.1795m where the first nala
crosses the tunnel alignment. From Ch. 1795m to Ch. 4176m the vertical rock cover is highest
with average of 900m and reducing to 124m at Ch. 4176 where second nala intercepts the tunnel
alignment.
The tunnel alignment in this reach is intercepted by numerous shear zones. A sub vertical shear at
Ch.1280 and Ch.1400m dipping 600-700 SE, another shear dipping 500-600 SE at Ch. 3950m and
at Ch.4176m. last shear dipping sub vertical at the point of second nala crossing. The Q values are
given in table 4.4
4.1.3 Adit-II (Ch.4740.10m) to Adit-III (Ch.8482)
The rocks are represented by well foliated partially weathered to fresh Biotite gneiss with
numbers of both concordant and discordant bands of intrusive leucogranite. The Tunnel will pass
through alternate bands of Biotite gneiss and Leucogranite of varying thickness. The incidences of
leucogranite are likely to be more towards the Adit-III. The general foliation and joint orientations
of foliation and cross joints are given in table 4.3 besides the main joint, few random joints sets
were also recorded in the leucogranite.
Table 4-3 Foliation and joint details for rock mass between Adit II and Adit III
Type of Jointing

Strike direction

Dip direction

Foliation joints Jf

N1250-1450E

300-600SE

Cross joints Jz1

Cross joint Jz2
Shear zone JS1

N 00-150E
N500-8500E
N750-800E

Sub vertical SE
Sub vertical SE
450-500NW

Remark
Biotite gneiss/leucogranite
foliation direction.
Conspicuous joins
Conspicuous joins
Shear zone

Here too, the tunnel alignment is not in preferred orientation with the foliation direction. But the
alignment options are limited by the constraints of the topography and the location of the power
house and surge shaft.
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In this reach the tunnel is going semi parallel with the main foliation direction which may pose
stability problems. However the cross joints are favorable with the tunnel alignment.

Figure 4.3 Joint Rosette for rock mass between Adit II and Adit III

Since the Tunnel alignment runs askew to the foliation trend, it is interpreted as fair condition of
tunneling. The vertical rock cover varies from 300m at adit junction II to 120m at Ch.6000m. The
overburden in the balance reach varies from 150m to 200m. One shear zone crosses the alignment
at Ch. 5010m with dip angle of 600-700SW. rock mass parameters are given in table 4.4
4.1.4 Adit-III (Ch.8482m) To Surge Shaft (Ch.8584.3m)
This last 102m stretch of the tunnel would pass through predominantly fresh to partially
weathered biotite gneiss with few interbeds of quartzite and numbers of discordant and
concordant bands of leucogranite. As the major part of this stretch is covered with debris/soil, the
geological mapping was done by traversing from the nearby nala and the power house location.
The projected rock mass parameters and rock class for the whole HRT is given in table 4.4

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Table 4-4 Rock mass parameters and rock class along the HRT alignment
Location
Ch. 0.0m to Adit-I
Ch.1053.3m)

Adit I Ch.1053.3m )
to Adit II
(Ch.4740.1m)
Adit II(Ch.4740.1m)
to Adit III(8482.m)
Adit III (Ch.8482.m)
to Surge Shaft
(Ch.8584.3.m)

Rock type
Bioitie gneiss
Quartzo feldspathic
gneiss
Leucogranite
Biotite gneiss

Q-Value
6.01
0.5-3.76

RMR Value
50-65
54-77

Rock class
Class III
Class-III To Class V

1.3
1.39 -3.47

58
58-67

Class IV
Class III To Class IV

Leucogranite
Biotite gneiss

0.65-5.21
0.80-3.77

49-67
43-69

Class III To Class V

Class III To Class V

Leucogranite
Biotite gneiss

1.15-5.9
0.32 3.27

57-70
50-63

Class IV To Class III

Class III to Class V

Leucogranite

1.31- 5.47

33-70

Class III to Class IV

First Adit
The first adit junction with the HRT alignment is at Ch 1053.297m and the invert level at the
junction is at El. 798.7m. The length of the adit is 807.598m and the adit portal is located at El.
772m. The gradient of the adit is 1 in 30.32 or 3.30%.
Second Adit
The second adit meets the HRT alignment at Ch. 4740.099m and the invert level of the adit
junction HRT is at El.781.965m. The adit is 544.5m long and the portal is located at El. 765m.
The gradient of the adit tunnel is 1 in 32.09 or 3.12%.
Third Adit
The third adit meets the HRT alignment at Ch. 8481.90m and is very close to the end of the HRT
junction with surge shaft. The invert level of the adit junction is at El. 764.965m. The adit is
284.8m long taking off from the main adit to the surge shaft and Butter valve chamber.
4.2

Discussion on features of the head race tunnel alignment

The total length of the tunnel is 8.5km. It is divided into five segments. A bend each is provided at
Ch.1768m, Ch.4871.6m, Ch.6135m and Ch.8460.1m respectively. The tunnel is finished with
concrete lining and have internal area of 95m2 i.e. 11m internal diameter.
The rock cover along the tunnel alignment varies from minimum of 80m to maximum of
at certain reaches of the tunnel.

700m

The construction of the HRT will be done through three construction adits. The chainages of adit
locations are adit I at Ch. 1053.3m, adit-II at Ch.4740.10m and adit-III at Ch. 8481.9m. The
features of HRT along each stretch is discussed and reviewed in the following sections.
4.2.1 Head loss
The primary head loss in the tunnel is accounted from the frictional loss between the tunnel and
water surface. This loss is function of surface roughness and length of the tunnel, velocity of flow
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and the size of cross sectional area of the tunnel. Besides, frictional loss, head losses can occur at
bends and transition in cross sectional areas. 5 numbers of bends provided in the alignment will
add to the head loss. The frictional head loss is calculated using Mannings formulae.
Q2 * L
h f 2
........................4(1)
M * A2 * R 4 / 3

The Mannings M value of 60 is considered for concrete lined tunnel. The design discharge Q is
466 m3/sec, length of tunnel L is 8584.3m, cross sectional area A of tunnel is 95 m2 and R is the
hydraulic radius calculated from ratio of cross section area to perimeter of the tunnel. the total
head loss calculated with above input values is 14.89m. This is not high considering the size and
length of tunnel. However, there are rooms for reducing these losses within the same system. This
could be done by reducing the length and numbers of bends. This is discussed in alternate
alignment.
4.2.2 Hydraulic fracturing of the rock mass
In a pressurized tunnel, when the hydro static head in the tunnel is greater than the weight of the
rock mass, the rock mass surrounding the tunnel may be subjected to hydraulic fracturing. The
water pressure fractures the rock mass and escapes into the surrounding. This causes stability
problems and loss of power generation. To avoid this, adequate vertical and lateral rock cover has
to be provided. The equilibrium condition is given by

w * H r * h cos

w * H r * L * cos

..4(2)
.4(3)

for vertical rock cover and

for lateral rock cover

Figure 4.4 Figurative illustration of different parameters for hydraulic fracturing

The FRL of the dam is at El.843m, invert level of HRT at Ch.0.0 and end of HRT is at El. 803.5m
and El.764.5 respectively. From the above relation using these water levels, minimum of 30m and
46m rock cover is needed to avoid hydraulic fracturing. The actual rock cover along the HRT
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alignment is significantly higher than these values. It can be safely concluded that the tunnel is
free from hydraulic fracturing due to static water pressure.
4.2.3 Adit locations
Construction adits are provided to facilitate access to the tunnel work fronts. The number of such
adits is decided depending on the length of HRT, the topography along the alignment and etc. The
decision is made based on the cost, criticality of the tunnel work in context of overall completion
the projects.
In a drill and blast tunneling, the length of the tunnel from an adit junction are restricted by the
effectiveness of ventilation arrangements, increase in lead for removing the excavated materials,
the length of pipes required for dewatering seepage waters in tunnel from downstream face etc.
In an idle homogeneous rock condition, adits are normally provided at equidistances along the
tunnel alignments. But in field, this is seldom true. Adit locations can be influenced by the
dictates of topography, location of bends and most importantly location of possible problematic
zones. Easy access to problematic zones gives the constructor sufficient time to plan and treat the
problem.
For this project, topography limits the location of adits. The distance of the adits from possible
weakness zones are far. The distance from adit I to 2nd nala crossing is 3123m. The geological
sections along these reaches show semi vertical joints. This may cause possible stability problems.
In an event of geological problems at face near to 2nd nala while excavating from adit II, the
distance to the same is very far from adit I, and in addition it has to cross 1st nala crossing which
may again give rise to problems. These long distances between the adits and the possible
problematic zones may prove very costly for the project. This aspect is optimized in the alternate
alignment.
4.2.4 Squeezing problems
Deep seated tunnels through weak rock mass can be susceptible to instability problems. It will
occur as rock bursting and spalling in good competent rocks and squeezing in poor weak rock.
The rock cover along the tunnel alignment varies from 80m to 700m. The empirical approach
given by Singh et al (1992) is used to evaluate possible squeezing. The relation is
H 350Q1 / 3

.4(4)

Using above relation, and substituting relevant parameters of Q ( the average Q value of 3.7 is
used which is the average of all Q values along the tunnel alignment), the result show possible
squeezing along some sections where the rock cober exceeds 540m.
From the Norwegian experience (Nelson & Palnstrom, Engineering geology and rock engineering
hand book 2), squeezing is possible when the rock cover exceeds 500m with valley ward slope
angle exceeding 250. The geology along the tunnel alignment is through mixture of biotite , schist
and quartzite rocks. Possible rock burst may occur in quartz where the overburden exceeds 500m
and squeezing when the rock type is through schistose formation.
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The complexity of geology, topography and locations of other project components makes
elimination of all problems virtually impossible. However designs can be optimized to minimize
possibility of problems. This has been explored in the alternate alignment.
Tangential stresses
The HRT alignments at different sections are checked for tangential stresses. The tangential
stresses for the roof and the walls are calculated separately using the equation proposed by Hoek
and Brown (1980). The other parameters are used from relevant figures and calculations.
..4(5)

Tangentia stress in roof

..4(6)

for the tangential stress in walls

The main calculation sheet is attached in the Appendix A. The tangential stress values along the
HRT alignment in three selected reaches is shown in table. 4.5
Table 4-5 Tangential stress values in the roof and walls at different HRT sections
Description

Ch.0 to Adit I Adit I to Adit II

Adit II to s/shaft

Tangential stress roof r

20.26

17.92

14.49

Tangentia stress wall w

Rock mass strength
Average rock mass strength

11.69

22.20

12.22

11.09

9.11

6.79

For calculating the horizontal stress, a tectonic stress value of 5 MPa is used from Panthis case
study in Parbathi project in India. From the calculated values, the tangential stresses values in
walls and roofs are more than the average rock mass strength, so minor rock falls from both wall
and roof can be expected.
Squeezing prediction by Hoek & Marinos approach
The squeezing in the tunnels at the different reaches was calculated using Hoek & Marinos (2000)
approach. The details calculation sheet and theory is discussed in Appendix A and chapter 5
respectively.
The deformation result of for the rock mass in different tunnel alignment and their tangential
stress values are calculated and presented in table 4.6 below.
Table 4-6 Rock deformation values along the HRT sections.
Description
Ch.0 to Adit I Adit I to Adit II
Deformation without support pressure t
in %
Deformation with support pressure t %

Adit II to s/shaft

0.10

0.33

0.22

0.003

0.068

0.053

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The result shows the deformation without support is 1.25cm from each side in stretch between
Ch. 0.0 to Adit I, around 5cm from each wall in the middle reach between adit I to adit II, and
3cm from each wall side in the last reach. All the deformation values are very negligible. It and
can easily be encountered with flexible support like shotcrete and rock bolts. These values are
very small according to Hoek and Marinos interpretation chart, so there is no serious risk of
squeezing or rock spalling problems even without the support.
Bend location at Ch.1053.3m
The 1st bend at Ch.1053.3m is located just below the crossing of the nala with the HRT
alignment. The rock mass below the crossing of the nala is expected to be poor due to the
presence of shear zone. This shear zone could further be weakened by weathering affects intruded
by seepage through it. Locating the bend at this location may not be advisable from the stability
point. This might give instability problems during construction time.
4.2.5 Tunnel alignment and foliation orientation
The tunnel between Ch.0.0m and Ch.1053m and the main gneissosity is aligned at
only.
This aanle is small and may give rise to minor problems during excavation. However, the cross
joints are aligned with the tunnel at
which is favorable for tunneling.
In the second stretch between Ch. 1750m 70 4821m, the HRT is aligned at
with the main
foliation which is improved from the earlier stretch. The tunnel alignment is favorable with cross
joint orientation. The third 1292m reach from Ch. 8421m to Ch. 6113m is almost parallely
orientated with the main gneissosity with
. The last reach from Ch.6113m to 8342m is also
aligned at
with the main foliation, but the cross joints may not cause serious problem to the
tunnels.

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Figure 4.5 Layout plan of HRT alignment

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Figure 4.6 Geological section along HRT

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4.3

Alternate HRT alignment

The take off and the end point of HRT alignment was kept same with the existing design. Within
the limits of these constraints, an exercise was made to optimize the alignment to reduce the
deficiencies in the existing alignment. The number of bends in the alignment was reduced without
compromising other geotechnical requirements. The locations of the construction adits were also
optimized according to the needs of the geological features and its locations. The final layout of
the realignment is shown in figure 4.11. The details of each feature are discussed in the following
sections.
4.3.1 Calculation of head loss due to friction
The frictional head losses along the new alignment are calculated using equation 4(1) given by
Mannings.
The head loss value is 14.45m. The difference in the head loss is due to the reduction of tunnel
length from 8584.28m to 8342m. Besides this frictional loss, the number of bends is also reduced.
This reduction in head loss between the two alignments is almost 1m, which is equivalent to
4MW of power. This is extra benefit in the new alignment.
4.3.2 Hydraulic fracturing and water leakage problem
The possible hydraulic fracturing to the rock mass is checked using the Selmer Oslens (1970)
equation given in 4(2) & 4(3).
Since the start and end location of the HRT alignment was kept same with the designed layout,
the minimum vertical and later rock covers remain unchanged. The minimum rock covers were
calculated considering a factor of safety value of 1.5. The new alignment has more than the
minimum rock covers.
The new alignment has shifted towards the valley side, both vertical and lateral minimum rock
covers are well above the required limits. This value is also considering a safety factor of 1.5.The
details of the calculation along the new alignment is tabulated and shown in table 4.7.
Table 4-7 Minimum rock cover calculated from Thimb rule for hydraulic fracturing
HRT
Rd.
(m)
0.00
4167
8335

El. 803.5

Hydrostatic
head
(MPa)
0.395

Slope
angle
Degree
630

vertical
rock cover
(m)
15.01

lateral
rock
cover (m)
33.08

vertical rock
cover with
(m)
22.65

lateral
rock cover
with (m)
49.62

El.784.00m

0.59

320

22.43

26.45

33.65

39.67

29.84

31.56

44.76

47.34

HRT invert
level

El. 764.50m

0.785

19

The figures from figure 4.7 to figure 4.9 shows the rock covers available at three different
locations along the new tunnel alignment. The rock covers are more than adequate.

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Figure 4.7 Rock cover at Ch. 0.0m

Figure 4.8 Rock cover at Ch.4167m

Figure 4.9 Rock cover at Ch.8584.28m

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4.3.3 Location of Adit portals

The possibly best adit locations are explored within the limits of existing topography. More focus
was given for optimizing the location of adits with respect to the 2nd nala crossing with the tunnel
alignment. The minimum gradients for adits were maintained to discharge seepage waters through
the drainage arrangements. The natural topography was carefully considered with regard to the
practicability of providing access roads from the existing road points. The length of the adits was
also thoroughly considered so that it does not unnecessarily add to high cost of project. The final
locations of different adits were as given in fig. 4.11. Other features of the adits are discussed
individually here under.
Adit 1
The topography restricts the portal location in a very small stretch of area. The portal location is
not very far from the old portal location but placed closer to 2nd nala crossing.
Elevation of the portal location= E. 775m
Length of the Adit = 797
Junction Ch.1309m
The invert elevation of the adit with the HRT =El. 797.38m
Gradient of the adit tunnel 2.8%
Adit 2
The distance between adit junctions and the 2nd nala is reduced. Other features include
Elevation of the adit portal location El.750m
Length of the adit tunnel = 844m
Junction Ch.4468m
Invert level of the adit with the HRT junction El.783.1m
Gradient of the tunnel 3.9%.
Adit 3
The location of the adit 3 was not changed since it is bifurcating from the main access tunnel to
the butterfly valve chamber and surge shaft area. The junction could not be shifted close to the
surge shaft end considering the interference with the works of surge shaft widening. The overall
dimension of the adit tunnels is kept 7m x7m which is the original size of the adit tunnels as
designed.
4.3.4 Squeezing problem due to high rock stress
The new alignment is checked for possible squeezing problem by the thumb rule proposed by
Singh et al. with the average rock cover reduced compared to the existing alignment, the
squeezing problems in major portion of the tunnel alignment is reduced but minor problems can
still be expected in some smaller stretches where the rock cover is above 500.
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The deformation results along the new alignment calculated based on Hoek & Marinos (2000) is
presented in table 4.8
Table 4-8 Values of rock stresses and deformation at different locations along HRT alignment
Description

Ch.0 to Adit I

Adit I to Adit II

Adit II to s/shaft

Tangential stress roof

20.10

17.47

14.66

Tangentia stress wall

Rock mass strength
Average rock mass strength
Deformation without support pressure t in %
Deformation with support pressure t %

11.12

17.12

9.35

11.09
0.09
0.01

9.11
0.24
0.03

6.79
0.16
0.11

The tangential stresses in the roof are lower than the rock mass strength but the tangential stress in
the walls are higher so there can still be stress problems in the walls. However the tangential
stress values are smaller compared with existing alignment condition.
In the realigned location, the deformation in the different tunnel reaches has reduced to negligible
limits. This instability situation can be easily countered without need for heavy support. Light
flexible rock support like shotcrete and rock bolting is sufficient for instability measures.
4.3.5 Cross section shape of the Tunnel
The designed cross section of HRT is modified horse shoe shape. This shape is difficult for
excavation and gets worse with larger size and poor rock quality. Rock over breaks is common in
the poor Himalayan geology and it will get worse with complicated shapes. This over breaks in
excavation leaves room for confrontation between the client and contractor where the later often
gets benefited. Instead, a simple D-shaped HRT cross section can be adopted. This will be easy
for blasting and reduce over breaks and related supports cutting down the cost. The proposed
shape for the HRT is shown in fig. 4.10

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Figure 4.10 Alternate cross section for HRT

4.3.6 Location of bends

The area around the nala crossing can be a possible weak zone. The deep weathering affects
penetrating the rock mass can be further worsened by the ingress of water through the jointing and
foliation at these locations. To avoid this location of the 1st bends have been shifted away from the
nala crossing. This will avert the possible weak zones for tunneling.
4.3.7 Tunnel alignments and the gneissosity
The first 1543m of the tunnel is not favorably aligned with the foliation directions with just
and
with the tunnel direction. However the remaining tunnel reaches have improved
orientation with the main foliations directions. The second stretch of 4025m from Ch. 1543 to
Ch.5568m has
orientation with the main foliation direction and the last 2767m from Ch
5568 to Ch. 8342m makes an angle of
with the main foliation. This has improved
orientation of tunnel alignment with main foliation and jointing. This improved tunnel orientation
with the main foliation and cross jointing will make a huge impact in improving the tunneling
through this poor geology.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Review of the Head Race Tunnel

Figure 4.11 Alternate HRT alignment layout

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Review of the Head Race Tunnel

Figure 4.12 Geological section along the alternate HRT alignment

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Review of the Head Race Tunnel

4.4

Conclusion

The advantages and benefits derived from the revised tunnel alignment are
The overall length of the head race tunnel is reduced by 250m
Due to reduced length, there is reduction of 0.45m in head loss.
The numbers of kinks required in the HRT alignment is reduced to 2 nos. which will
reduce head loss.
The overall vertical rock cover is reduced which changed squeezing condition from severe
to minor squeezing.
The total increase in length of the adit is more than reduction of length in HRT, but the
adits do not require expensive support system like the HRT thereby reducing the time and
cost of the project.
The distance to the expected problem zones from each adits is reduced which will give
advantage during the construction of the tunnel.
The geological instability is common in the Himalayan geology. The choice of machines and
methodology adopted will make lot of difference to the cost and time of project completion. The
instability in the Himalayas is the result of high tectonics, deep weathering and young rock
formation of the Himalayas. The stability problems cannot be eliminated totally but when right
measures and technology are adopted; its seriousness can be reduced. The new tunnel alignment
proposed may help reduce stability problems, save cost and time in successful completion of the
project. The new alignment is shown in figure 4.12 and 4.13.
Table 4-9 Comparative features between existing and alternate alignment layout
Description of component
Original
Revised
Remarks
layout
layout
Length of HRT (m )
8584.3
8342
242.3m less
Numbers of kinks ( Nos )
4
2
2 bends less
Minimum vertical overburden ( m )
Maximum vertical over burden ( m )
Squeezing in the tunnels

80
600
Severe
squeezing

124
584
Minor
squeezing

The new alternate alignment is better than the planned alignment. However since the project is
already under execution, this exercise is done more as a academic exploration. But the process
involved can be successfully used to optimize benefits in future tunneling projects.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Stability Analysis

STABILITY ANALYSIS

Rock mass comprises of many minerals and discontinuity features. This affects the mechanical
property of the rock mass, reducing it compared with intact rock. The mechanical strength
properties of the rock mass are smaller than the intact rock. The information on rock mass
properties is required for planning and design purposes. It is difficult to collect rock sample with
all discontinuity features. This is due to constraints in laboratory size and financial limitations. As
such, normally the laboratory test is carried out on intact rock specimen in the field. The result of
this is extrapolated using different relations to get the material properties of rock mass. This
chapter deals with the study of some of the characters of the rock mass and its behavioral trends.
Continuous and discontinuous rocks
In an underground work, the behavior of the excavated rock mass is influenced by the shape and
size of opening. The ground behavior in an excavation is related to size of opening to the rock
mass block size. The ground behaves either as continuous or discontinuous material during
excavation; the continuity behavior of ground is assessed by continuity factor (CF).
, where Dt is the diameter of the tunnel and Db block diameter of the rock mass.
The limit between continuous and discontinuous is matter of judgment. Palmstrom (1995) has
suggested the following limits.
For CF
approx. 5 100, the ground is considered discontinuous. The behaviors are
likely to be anisotropic, dominated by individual discontinuities.
For CF <5, the rock properties dominate and for highly jointed rocks with CF > 100, the
material behaves like a soil.
Continuous and discontinuous ground behaves differently. It is important to determine the type of
rock mass and the ground condition. Only after knowing the ground condition, an appropriate
design principle can be effectively applied.
In general, the stability assessment of the tunnels and caverns are carried out using three different
approaches. The three methods are discussed separately in the following sections.
Empirical method
Analytical method and
Numerical analysis

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Stability Analysis

5.1

Empirical method

Empirical methods are developed mostly from the observation gained by different authors through
field experience. This method gives the indicative trends in the behavior of rock mass rather than
definitive accurate results. These methods are more descriptive in nature than calculative. These
methods are more easy to use in field. Some of the empirical methods used in rock engineering
are discussed in this section.
5.1.1 Rock mass classification
There are different methods used for the classification of the rock mass. Two of the most
commonly used methods in Bhutan are the NGIs Q method and Bieniaswkis RMR method. These
two methods are extensively used in most projects in Bhutan and the support systems were
designed on the basis of these two methods. The following section discusses the two methods.
Bartons Q-System of rock mass classification
Bartons Q system of rock mass classification was developed at the Norwegian Geotechnical
Institute (NGI) by Barton et al. in 1974. It is a quantitative classification system for estimation of
support system. The rock mass is classified based on the following six rock mass parameters.
Rock quality designation (RQD)
Numbers of joints (Jn)
Roughness of most unfavorable joint or discontinuity (Jr)
Degree of alteration or filling along the weak joints( Ja)
Water inflow (Jw)
Stress condition given as the stress reduction factor (SRF).
The above six parameters are grouped into three quotient to give an overall rock mass quality.
.5(1)
The first two parameters represent the overall structure of the rock mass and their quotient is a
relative measure of its block size.
The second quotient describes an indication of the inter block shear strength and
The third quotient described the active stresses.
Each of the six parameters gives the description of the rock mass in terms of its jointing, spacing,
the infill materials, its properties and the seepage conditions. The six parameters and its ratings as
given by are Barton et. al (1974) reproduced in Appendix B. The combined result of all the above
six parameters defines the rock mass and its quality. This is called the rock mass quality index Q.
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Stability Analysis

Based on the different Q values ranges, the rock mass are classified into different class of rock.
The different rock classes based on the rock mass rating index Q is given in Table.5.1.
Table 5-1 Rock mass classification based on NGIs Q method
Sl. No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Rock Class description

Very to extremely good rock
Good rock
Fair to good rock
Poor rock
Very poor rock
Extremely poor rock
Exceptionally poor

Rock Class
Class-I
Class-II
Class-III
Class-IV
Class V
Class VI
Class VII

Q value range
100-1000
10 100
4 10
1 - 4
0.1 - 1
0.01 0.1
0.001 0.01

The rock mass rating index Q is used in combination with the excavation support ratio in the
standard chart for designing the rock support system. This is dealt in chapter 7 in supports.
Bieniawskis RMR system of rock mass classification
The RMR or the geomechanics system is developed by Bieniaswki in 1973. It is also one of the
most commonly used classification method in Bhutan. In this method the rock mass is classified
using the following six rock mass parameters.
Uniaxial compressive strength of intact rock material
Rock quality designation ( RQD)
Spacing of discontinuities
Condition of discontinuities
Ground water condition
Orientation of discontinuities
In this method, the rock mass along the tunnel alignment is divided into zones having similar or
uniform geological features. The above six parameters are measured in the field or obtained from
the results of the bore hole data along these zones. Once these parameters are determined, the rock
mass is classified using the standard RMR rating charts given in Appendix B.
The RMR rating chart is used along with the classification guide and rock tunnels support given
by Bieniawski in 1989. This aspect is discussed in chapter 6.
Based on the values of the classification rating parameters, the rock mass is classified into
different calsses based on their RMR values range. This is presented in table 5.2.

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Stability Analysis

Table 5-2 Rock mass classification based on RMR ratings

RMR value
Rock class
Description

100-81
I
Very good

80-61
II
Good

60-41
III
Fair

40-21
IV
Poor

<20
V
Very poor

5.1.2 Prediction of tunnel squeezingl

One of the empirical methods of predicting squeezing in tunnels is given by Singh et al (1992)
based on a relation between the rock mass quality Q and over burden H for the Himalayan
tunneling. The equation is
5(2)
According to this approach, when the over burden is equal to or higher than the value given by the
above equation, the tunnel is likely to be affected by squeezing. The figurative presentation of the
approach is given in fig. 5.1

Figure 5.1 Tunnel squeezing prediction chart by Singh et al (1992)

The possible squeezing along the HRT alignment based on this approach is reviewed. The results
are presented in table 5.3
Table 5-3 Minimum rock cover for squeezing from Singh et al relation
HRT reach

Ave. Q

H value from Singhs

relation (m)

Ch. 0 to Adit I

3.31

521

Adit I to Adit
II

3.7

541

Adit II to
S/shaft

3.64

538

Ave. over burden

in the field (m)
295
455

276

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

Remark
The available overburden is
much less than the
minimum height for
squeezing so squeezing may
not be a problem along the
HRT alignment from
Singhs prediction.

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Stability Analysis

Based on results from this method and calculations, there are some possibility of squeezing in the
middle reach where the available rock cover is higher than the minimum threshold value.
However, the tunnel in the starting and ending reaches should not have squeezing problem.
Goel et al (1995)
Goel et al. has developed the squeezing prediction on the same line with Singh et al except that
they used rock mass number (N). The proposed equation is given below.
5(3)
H is rock overburden, B is the width of the tunnel and N is the rating Q value without SRF. There
can be possible squeezing problems when the available over burden exceeds the value given by
the equation. The results of the tunnel squeezing along the HRT based on Singh were discussed in
the alternate alignment of the HRT. And it has shown some minor squeezing possibilities when
the rock cover exceeds 500m plus in height.
5.2

Analytical method

The analytical methods have evolved on the foundation of the empirical methods. However the
results are presented more as calculations in analytical methods. since the results are in calculated
figures it gives better guidance for comparison and a better understanding of the rock mass and its
behavior. This sections deals with some of the analytical methods used in rock engineering and
analysis of the results.
5.2.1 Stresses in the rock mass
The rock mass is subjected to in-situ stresses in undisturbed form. The in-situ stress gets
redistributed during excavation. The different types of stresses and their origin are discussed in
this section.
Origin of stresses
The in-situ rock masses are subjected to virgin stresses from its surroundings. The most important
rock stresses are caused by the following.
Gravitational stress
Topographic stresses
Tectonic stresses and
Residual stress.
Of all stress, the topographic and gravitational stress is most prominent stress affecting
underground structure. The tectonic stress is responsible for the incidents such as faults and
folding and is significant in the tectonically active regions in shallow depths. Bhutan is location in
active tectonic regions of eastern Himalayan range. As such the tectonic stresses should be
carefully considered for design of underground structures in Bhutan.
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Stability Analysis

The vertical gravitational stress at any depth H is proportional to the weight of the over lying rock
mass and is calculated by

(MPa)

5(4)

Where is the density of rock in MN/m3, and H is the height of over burden in m. knowing the
vertical stress, the horizontal stress can then be calculated using the equation

5(5)

Where is poisons ratio, and tec is the tectonic stress in MPa. A tectonic stress value of 5MPa the
value used by Panthi for Parbati project in India (Panthi, 2011) is assumed since the two projects
are located within the same region. Using formulas, the vertical and horizontal stresses along the
HRT alignment is calculated and presented in table. 5.4.
Table 5-4 Vertical and horizontal stress values along HRT sections
Location/Stresses
Vertical stress MPa
Horizontal stress MPa

Ch.0 to Adit I
7.66
9.01

Adit I to Adit II
11.77
9.58

Adit II to S/shaft end.

7.11
6.97

The horizontal stress is higher than the vertical stress. This holds true because the height of the
vertical cover is less than 600m. As per the studies conducted by different authors, the horizontal
stresses value will be higher till depth of 1000m. Beyond it the vertical stress will dominate.
Stress distribution
The rock mass is under the virgin stress condition in its undisturbed state. When excavated, the
stresses in the surrounding rock gets redistributed around the periphery of the opening readjusting
to the changed surrounding. The stress distribution in the rock mass before and after excavation is
given in fig.5.2.

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Stability Analysis

Figure 5.2 Stress distribution before and after excavation ( Panthi, 2011)
Circular openings in iso-static condition
In an ideal homogeneous, elastic material with iso-static stress condition where (1 = 2=2 =) is
the virgin stress, the tangential and radial stress distribution along the contour of opening with
radius ri will follow the trend shown in fig. 5.3, and the corresponding relation with the radial
variation is given in the same figure.
The graphical representation of the stresses variation along the periphery of the opening with
changing radius from the center of the opening is shown in fig.5.3. as presented, the radial stress
is zero at the distance of 1r from center of opening and tangential stress is maximum. With
increasing distance from center, the radial and tangential stresses values increases and decreases
respectively. The stress values stabilises and takes a constant value at distance roughly 1D from
center.

Figure 5.3 Tangential & radial stress along circular opening in isostatic field (Panthi,2011)
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Stability Analysis

Kirsch approach
In the field, the stresses are hardly isotopic. The tangential stresses vary along the periphery of the
circular opening. Kirschs equation gives the value of maximum and minimum stress along the
opening periphery in an-isotopic stress condition.
.5(6)
.5(7)
The stress distribution is strongly influenced by degree of anisotropy. After excavation, the
induced stresses in the rock mass are redistributed along the periphery of the opening. When the
stress exceeds the rock mass strength the rock faces instability problems. In general the instability
induced by stresses occurs in the areas of maximum tangential stress. However when the
tangential stress values are very low, problem of rock fall in the jointed rock mass occurs.
Hoek and Brown approach
Hoek and Brown (1980) has, based on large number of detailed boundary element stress analysis
developed a correlation to estimate tangential stresses as given below.
..5(8)

Tangential stress in roof

.

Tangential stress in wall

5(9)

Where A and B are factors given by Hoek & Brown (1980) and is shown in table 5.5. K is ratio of
horizontal to vertical stresses.

Table 5-5 A & B values in underground openings ( Hoek & Brown, 1980)

Based on the above A and B values, the tangential stresses in roof and the walls of the tunnel
along different reaches of the HRT alignment is calculated and presented in table. 5.6
Table 5-6 Tangential stress values in roof & walls along the HR alignment
Location/Stresses

Ch.0 to Adit I

Adit I to Adit II

Rock mass strength MPa

Tangential stress in Roof MPa
Tangential stress in walls MPa

11.09
20.26
11.69

9.11
17.92
22.20

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

Adit II to
S/shaft end
6.99
14.49
12.22

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Stability Analysis

The rock mass strength values used are the average values calculated from relations proposed by
different authors. It can be seen that the tangential stress in both the roof and walls are greater
than the rock mass strength, as such there can be minor stability problems in the roof and walls
throughout the HRT alignment.
5.2.2 Rock mass failure criterions
Rock mass comprise of many geological features that shape the overall strength and behavior of
it. Different factors contribute to the instability in the rock mass that cause failure in the
underground tunnels and openings. The most widely used failure criterions proposed by Hoek &
Brown and the Mohr-Coloumb failure criterions were discussed here.
The Hoek & Brown failure criterion for the rock mass
The strength of the rock mass is an important factor for the stability of the underground structures.
Hoek & Brown (1980) has given the relation for estimating the strength based on the interlocking
of the blocks and the surface conditions between the blocks. This relation is revised many times
over the years and a generalized Hoek Brown failure criterion by Hoek et. al. (2002) is given by

.5(10)

Where 1, and 3, are the effective major and minor principal stresses. c is the uniaxial
compressive strength of the intact rock. mb is the reduced value of material constant mi, s and a is
constants which depends on the rock mass characteristics. mb, s and a values of the rock mass is
calculated from following equation
5(11)
)

5(12)
5(13)

Where, D is degree of disturbance of the rock mass due to blast damage and stress relaxation. The
value varies from 0 for undisturbed rock mass to 1 for highly disturbed rock mass. GSI is the
geological strength index and mi is the material constant, the different values are calculated and
shown in table.5.7. The disturbance factor D for different tunneling conditions is given in fig. 5.7
Table 5-7 Rock mass constant values for the HRT
Location/rock mass constant values
mb
s
a

Ch.0 to Adit I
2.19
0.0006
0.51

Adit I to Adit II
2.19
0.0006
0.51

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

Adit II to S/shaft end

2.19
0.0006
0.51

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Stability Analysis

These calculated values were checked with similar cases in the region and the results are found
within the similar range. It is also comparable to the values computed by Rocdata.

Figure 5.4 Disturbance factor for different tunneling ( Hoek & Brown, 2002)
Mohr Coloumb failure criterion
Mohr Coulomb is one of most commonly used failure criterion based on normal stress and shear
strength of the intact rock. Shear strength of the rock mass can be defined by the friction angle
( ) and cohesive strength (C).To determines these two parameters, Hoek et. al. (2002) derived a
relation between Hoek & Brown failure criterion and Mohr Coulomb criterion by fitting an
average linear curve balancing the area above and below the Mohr-Coulomb plot as shown in fig.
5.5.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Stability Analysis

Figure 5.5 Relation between major & minor principal stresses for Hoek & Brown and equivalent
Mohr-Coloumb criterion (Hoek et. al, 2002)
According to Hoek (2007), when the structure being analyzed is large compared to the block size,
the rock mass strength can be estimated using Hoek & Brown failure criterion, and when
discontinuity spacing is larger compared to structure dimension, Mohr-coulomb failure criterion
can be used for stability analysis of the underground structures. Fig. 5.6 shows the transition of
the rock mass properties from isotopic intact rock to heavily jointed anisotropic rock mass and
applicable failure conditions.

Figure 5.6 Choice of failure criterion ( Panthi, 2011)

5.2.3 Rock mass properties and estimation.
Rock mass is a heterogeneous medium with many associated variables. The two main features
characterizing the rock mass are 1) rock mass quality and 2) the mechanical processes acting on
the rock mass. These two features are interlinked with each other. The rock mass quality is related
to rock mass strength, deformability, strength anisotropy, presence of discontinuities and
weathering affects. The mechanical properties effect tunnel stability and is linked with stresses in
rock and ground water. The stability is further influenced by project specific like shapes, sizes and
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Stability Analysis

location and orientation. Due to heterogeneity of rock mass, it is very difficult to get
representative rock sample for laboratory tests, so laboratory tests are performed on intact
samples. The results of the intact rock samples do not directly give rock mass strengths. However
experiments and studies conducted by different authors have shown scale effect relation between
the two. Different authors have developed different equations for calculating rock mass strength
parameters. Hoek-Brown has developed one such relation with following input parameters.
ci , the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of intact rock piece.
mi, Hoek-Brown constants of intact rock
GSI, Geological strength index of the rock mass and
Em, Deformation modulus of the rock mass
These parameters are used as inputs to calculate other rock mass properties and stresses. Different
authors have given different equations for calculating different properties of rock. Some of the
important properties are discussed here.
Uniaxial compressive strength of the rock mass
The effect of weathering reduces the rock mass strength. Many authors have developed relations
for estimating the rock mass strength relating with different rock mass parameters. Some of the
most commonly used relations are tabulated in able 5.8 and their values calculated and compared.
Table 5-8 Empirical formulas used for estimating rock mass strength
Author

Empirical relation

RMR 100
).........................5(14)
24

Bieniawski (1993)

cm ci x exp(

Hoek and Brown

(2002)

cm ci x[exp(

Barton (2002)

cm 5 * * Qc1 / 3 5 * * [

ci

100

Panthi (2006)

cm

ci 1.5
60

GSI 100 a
)] .....................5(15)
9

* Q]1 / 3 ............................5(16)

........................................5(17)

Where cm is the unconfined compressive strength of rock mass in MPa , ci is the uniaxial
compressive strength of the intact rock with 50mm diameter in MPa. RMR is the Bieniawskis
rock mass rating, s and a the material constants related to Hoek-Brown failure criterion( the value
of a ranges from 0.5 for GSI value of 100 to 0.58 for GSI value 10).GSI is the geological strength

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Stability Analysis
indeed, is rock density (tons/m3), Qc normalized rock mass quality rating and Q rock mass
quality rating. The rock mass strength calculated using the above relations is presented in table 5.9
Table 5-9 Rock mass strength values calculated from empirical formulas
Author

Bieniaswki
Hoek et al
Barton
Panthi
Average Values

Ch. 0.0 to Adit-I

ci
cm
(MPa)
(MPa)
58.30
25.97
58.30
2.61
58.30
8.363
58.30
7.42
11.09

Adit I-Adot-II
ci
cm
(MPa)
(MPa)
49.27
20.61
49.27
2.20
49.27
7.86
49.27
5.76
9.11

Adit-II to S/shaft.
ci
cm
(MPa)
(MPa)
40.25
15.60
40.25
1.80
40.25
6.29
40.25
4.26
6.79

All formulas have calculations linked with the UCS value of the intact rock respecting the scale
factor effect between the strengths. The values given by Bieniawski are very high whereas Hoek
et als gives more conservative values. Since the values vary from one author to another, choice of
the method must be made keeping in view, the region, rock mass properties and the
appropriateness to the specific project. The value from Panthis and Bartons formula are in
comparable range which is in the middle range. Since every formula gives differing values, for
further calculations, the average values of the four is considered.
Affect of weathering on strength
Weathering is a natural process that affects the rock mass. Weathering reduces the rock mass
properties like strength, durability and frictional resistance. Panthi (2006) illustrates the reduction
effect of weathering on rock mass as given in fig. 5.7.

Figure 5.7 Strength reduction by weathering in percent (Panthi, 2006)

Hoek-Brown constant mi
Hoek-Brown constant, mi is computed from the statistical analysis of a set of triaxial tests. When
laboratory test are not available for the rock mass, material constant mi are used from table 5.10
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Stability Analysis

proposed by Hoek. The range of values quoted in table 5.10 for each material depends on the
granularity and interlocking of the crystal structure, the higher values being associated with
tightly interlocked and more frictional characteristics.
Table 5-10 Material constant mi values from Hoek
Rock type

Class

Group

SEDIMEN ARY

Clastic

Carbonates
Non
clastic

Texture
Coarse
Conglomerates*
(21
Breccias
(19

Crystalline
limestone
(12

Evaporites

Medium
Sandstone
17

Fine
Siltstone
7
Greywackers
18

Sparitic
limestone
(10

Micritic
limestones
(9

Gypsum
8

Anhydrites
12

METAMORPHIC

Organic

Slightly foliated
Foliated**

Light
Plutonic
Dark
IGNEOUS

Chalk
7
Marble
9

Non foliated

Hypabyssal

Migmatite
(29
Gneiss
28
Granite
32

Gabbro
27
Neorite
20
Porphyries
(20

Lava
Volcanic
Pyroclastic

Very fine
Claystones
4
Shales
(6
Marls
7
Dolomites
(9

Agglomerate
(19

Hornfels
(19
Metasandstone
(19
Amphibolites
26
Schists
12
Diorite
25
Grandorites
(29 )
Dolerite
(16

Rhyolite
(25
Andesite
25
Breccia
(19

Quartzites
20

Phyllites
(7

Slate
7

Diabase
(15
Dacite
(25
Basalt
(25
Tuff
(13
)

Peridotite
(25
Obsidian
(19

*Conglomerates and breccias may present a wide range of mi values depending on the nature of the cementing
material and the degree of cementation, so they may range from values similar to sandstone to values used for fine
grained sediments.
** These values are for the intact rock specimen tested normal to bedding or foliation. The value of mi will be
significantly different if failure occurs along a weakness plane.

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Stability Analysis

Geological strength index (GSI)

Geological strength index provides a system for estimating the reduction in the rock mass strength
ci and material constant mi for laboratory values to appropriate in-situ values under identified
geological conditions. GSI is the combination of two fundamental parameters of geological
process, the blockiness of the mass and condition of discontinuities. It respects the main
geological constraints that govern formation and is thus estimated from visual examination of the
rock mass exposed in surface excavation such as road cuts, in tunnels faces and in borehole core
(Hoek and Marinos, 2000). Standard GSI table is presented in Figure 5.8.

Figure 5.8 Geological strength Index for jointed rock mass ( Hoek & Marinos, 2000)

The GSI values can be correlated with Rock Mass Rating (RMR) using the relation

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Stability Analysis

Deformation modulus
Jointed rock mass do not behave elastically which nesseciated the use of modulus of deformation
Em rather than modulus of elasticity (Eci). According to ISRM (1975), Em is the ratio of stress to
corresponding strain during loading of rock mass under elastic and inelastic behavior and E ci is
the same ratio under elastic limits. It can be measured directly in the field or in the laboratory but
is time consuming and costly. Even otherwise, the laboratory results differ as high as 100%.
Therefore it will save time and money if the values are calculated empirically. Various empirical
equations proposed by different authors are presented in table.5.9
Table 5-11 Empirical formulas used for calculating deformation modulus
Proposed by

Empirical relation.
Em 2 * RMR 100 (GPa) for RMR >50.5(18)

Bieniawski (1978)

E m 10 x(

Barton (2002)
Hoek and Brown (1997)

Em
Em

Panthi (2006)

ci
100

Qx ci 1 / 3
) (GPa) 5(19)
100

x10 (( GSI 10) / 40)..................................5(20)

E ci
1.5.
x ci ............................................5(21)
60

The results using the above relations are calculated and presented in table 5.12
Table 5-12 Deformation modulus values calculated using above formulas
Author

Bieniaswki
Hoek et al
Barton
Panthi

Ch. 0.0 to Adit-I

Eci
Em
(GPa)
(GPa)
6.6
61.2
6.6
5.7
6.6
6.5
6.6
0.8

Adit I-Adot-II
Eci
(GPa)
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.5

Em
(GPa)
58.2
5.3
6.1
0.6

Adit-II to S/shaft.
Eci
Em
(GPa)
(GPa)
4.4
54.5
4.4
4.7
4.4
4.9
4.4
0.5

The calculated results by different authors vary considerably from each other. The relation given
by Bieniawski gives very high values for rock mass with GSI vales above 60. The deformation
modulus in the range one tenth of the intact rock mass value can be acceptable. But the relations
give very different values. The result given by Panthi (2006) is considered here, especially since
his is the outcome of compilation of many results from the Himalayas region. As such in the
further calculations the modulus of deformation given by Panthis relation is considered.
5.2.4 Water leakage problems
Water occurs in the rock in different forms. Ground water is the most common way of occurrence
of water in the rock mass. Ground water is the unconfined water that occurs below the ground
water table in the rock mass. The other ways in which water may occur are as:Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Stability Analysis
Chemically bonded water to the crystal structure eg. Gypsum (CaSO4 X2H2O )
Absorbed water by crystals structure in some minerals. eg. Smectite and
Capillary water in thin fissures and pores.
The occurrence of freely movable ground water in the underground in presence of joints and
discontinuities creates seepage problem during construction, and water leakage problem during
operation of tunnels. Since the degree of discontinuity differs in the rock mass, the water seepage
problem too will vary from rock mass to rock mass.
Estimation of seepage and water leakage in underground tunnels
The presence of discontinuities makes the seepage problems even worse. To overcome this
problem, it is important to estimate the water leakage into and from the tunnels. Its very difficult
to predict the occurrence and location of seepage in the underground but there are different
methods devised to estimate the quantity of seepage water in the underground rock mass.
One such technique is developed by Tokheim and Janbu( 1984). This method was initially
developed for evaluating the potential air loss in the unlined compressed air cushion surge
chamber in jointed rock. However it was also found well suited for estimating the water leakage.
The relation is given by
Gw

2 * * K * L * P.
.............................................5(22)
w * G

Where Qw inflow rate, k is specific permeability (m2), L length of tunnel/cavern (m), p potential
active head, w dynamic viscosity of water (kg/m) = Density X cinematic viscosity and G
geometry factor.
Geometry factor describes the flow pattern relatively to the geometry of the tunnel and is given by
G

ln( 2 D r ) * ( L 2r )
..................................................................5(23)
r[ L 2r (2 D r )]

D is distance between center line of excavation line and the ground water table, r equal radius. i.e
radius of cylinder with surface area equal to that of actual excavation.
In absence of the required parametric values, the quantity of possible ground water could not be
calculated for the Punatsangchu-II project. It may be measured during the excavation time.
Lugeon Test
Lugeon test is another such method to test the leakage problem and it is described below.
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Figure 5.9 Figurative presentation of Lugeon test

The lugeon test is carried out in the bore holes drillings. The bore holes are divided into sections
of 1 m length by providing packers (see fig. 5.9). The test is carried out from the lowest to the
upper most section. Once the holes are compartmentalized by the packers, water is pumped into
the section of borehole measuring 1m length under pressure of 1 MPa( 10 bars). 1 Lugeon is the
quantity of water lost through 1m length of hole in one minute under 1MPa pressure. The
presence of high seepage water in the tunnels has negative effect on the tunneling works. It
reduces the tunneling advance rate and increases the instability in the tunnels.
The prediction of water leakage in the tunneling works is important. It helps to plan preventive
support measures. The HRT alignment for Punatsangchu II project is intersected by two nalas
with numerous shear zones and prominent joints, as such seepage related problems can be
expected in this project. To counter leakage problems, provision of drainage holes are provided in
the design during construction. Consolidation and contact grouting are provided throughout the
HRT alignment. However, apart from the drainage holes, there is no mention of probe drilling and
pre consolidation grouting ahead of excavation in seepage zone. This is very important since there
are two nalas crossing the tunnel alignment; besides the rock cover is less and has some major
joints in these reaches. Panthi (2006) has done a comparative study for effectiveness of grouting
in the tunnels in Nepal and found pre injecting grouting to be more effective than post injection
grouting in dealing with seepage problems. Therefore provision for probe drilling and pre
consolidation should be done in areas where seepage problems are expected.
5.2.5 Tunnel squeezing
Rock mass is heterogeneous medium and rock mass properties vary within space. When tunneling
through poor rock medium dominated by poor schistose and fractured rock mass, the strength of
the rock mass is less compared to the tangential stresses exerted in the rock. This results in
formation of micro cracks along the schistocity or foliation plane. As a result, a visco-plastic zone
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of micro fractured rock mass is formed deeply into the wall as shown in fig. 5.10 and the induced
maximum tangential stresses are moved beyond the plastic zone (Panthi, 2006).

Figure 5.10 Illustration of squeezing in circular tunnels based on Bray, 1976 (Panthi, 2006)
h= h= is the normal stresses in the rock mass. R is the radius of visco- plastic zone and r is
the tunnel radius. Pi is the support pressure. As a result of time dependent inward movement of
the rock mass, the support material will be subjected to high stresses and sometimes when the
support fails to sustain the large deformation caused by high tangential stresses, the tunnels
squeezes inward reducing the size of opening. In extreme cases, new equilibrium are reached after
the complete closure of tunnel, eg Kovari in 1998 and Steiner 1996 (Panthi, 2006). Many authors
have developed different approaches to predict tunnel squeezing. Hoek and Marinos approach is
discussed below.
Hoek and Marinos (2000)
Over burden alone is not responsible for squeezing. The changing strength and deformability
properties of the rock mass over time have far greater consequences on squeezing (Kovari, 1998).
In Hoek and Marinos approach, rock mass strength and over burden are the two parameters
considered responsible for squeezing. With this view, Hoek and Brown (2000) have suggested a
relation that gives total strain (ratio of tunnel closer to tunnel diameter), which is a function of
rock mass strength and in-situ overburden pressure. The criterion is based on iso-static circular
stress condition.
The support pressure can be calculated using different equations. The RMR method and Unal
method are used here.
The rock support pressure from the RMR relation.

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100 RMR
* * Dt.................................................................5(24)
100
The support pressure can also be calculated using equation proposed by Unal (1983) as shown
below.
B
Pi (100 RMR ) * *
.............................................................5(25)
100
P

Where is rock density in t/m3, and B is tunnel width in m. accordingly the deformation in the
tunnels were calculated first without support pressure and later with support pressure. The rock
support pressure is tabulated in table 5.13.

Figure 5.11 Tunnel convergence and degree of difficulties associated with tunnel squeezing
(Hoek & Marinos, 2000)
Hoek and Marinos defined the plastic zone (R) and total tunnel strain (t) by following equations.

....5(26)

5(27)

Where t is total inward deformation and t is total inward strain. Pi is the support pressure in
MPa. When the support pressure is taken as zero, the squeezing condition in the rock mass may be
rewritten as

.5(28)
..5(29)

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Hoek ans Marinos have assumed that weak rock mass are incapable of sustaining significant
differential stress and failure will occur till in-situ horizontal and vertical stresses are equalized.
This justifies why they considered over burden instead of tangential stresses, which is always
greater than over burden pressure for estimating tunnel squeezing. For defining the approximate
degree of difficulty at different level of tunneling, the figure 5.11 right is used.
The squeezing results from the Hoek and Marinos relations for the different reaches along the
HRT alignment is given in table 5.13. The squeezing chart states that, degree of squeezing will be
with few support problems when strain is less than 1%. Minor squeezing problem when strain is
between 1 %and 2.5%. When the strain exceeds 2.5% but less than 5% there can be severe
squeezing problem in the rock mass. The tunnel will face extreme squeezing when the strain
exceeds 10%.
Table 5-13Support pressure and deformation along the HRT alignment
Description
Support pressure MPa
Deformation without support
pressure %
Deformation with support
pressure %

Ch.0 to Adit I
6.23

Adit I to Adit II
6.68

Adit II to S/shaft
7.23

0.1

0.33

0.22

0.003

0.06

0.05

From the results, very less squeezing problems is expected along the HRT. All the possible
squeezing can be solved by adopting simple flexible support measures. However, since all these
input parameters are calculations based on rock mass parameters on the surface, it should not be a
reason to relax. There should be adequate readiness for any worsening squeezing problem since
the rock mass is intersected by numerous joints. The HRT alignment crossing two nala along its
layout should also be cautionary tunneling reach. However, till the actual tunneling and its results
are obtained, there is no severe squeezing problem. Tunneling design is a dynamic process and the
design is best done by considering the actual conditions at the face, so this approach has to be
taken and appropriate support designed during construction stage. It is stated that the values of the
support pressure is very high since it is calculated from the RMR method. The support pressure
given by RMR formula is unrealistically high which no support combination can possibly
achieve. In actual cases, the support pressure should be within 2.5 MPa.
5.3

Numerical methods

The rock mass is very complex medium. Its material properties and other discontinuities keep
changing even within very short stretch. Since the input parameters are numerous and vary a lot,
numerical analysis method of analysis becomes very cumbersome and time consuming; it is
therefore more convenient to use fast computers for the same analysis. Numerical method gives
quantitative assessment of the problems. Due to the advantage of speed and space, it can be used
for testing the results with varying conditions of input parameters giving a better understanding of
the mechanism in the rock mass. Further it can be used to verify the traditional thumb rule
applications. Due to the availability of space and speed, it can be used to find results for extended
conditions.
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5.3.1 Types of numerical models

The numerical methods can be fundamentally divided into continuous modeling and
discontinuous modeling.
Continuous models: - In the continuous model, the rock mass is treated as a continuous
medium and includes very minimum of discontinuities. In continuous models we have
three different models namely 1) Finite Element Method (FEM), 2) Finite Difference
Method (FDM) and 3) Boundary Element Method (BEM).
Discontinuous models: - In the discontinuous model, the rock mass is treated as a
discontinuous material with individual blocks free to rotate, translate and interact along its
boundaries. Some of the software available in discontinuous model is 1) Distinct Element
Method (DEM) and 2) Discontinuous Deformation Analysis (DDA).
The Phase2 numerical modeling is discussed in chapter 6
5.4

Conclusion

The design of underground structures involves the use of all three methods of empirical, analytical
and numerical methods. The empirical methods does not give stress distribution and deformation
around the tunnels, but due to the simplicity and ease for use, its preferred by the field engineers.
The analytical and the numerical methods are dependent upon the strength parameters of
associated rock masses that are the input parameters derived from the field observations and
empirical results. Therefore the reliability of the results of analytical and numerical methods is
only as reliable as the input parameters fed from the field and empirical calculations.
It is therefore more appropriate to use all the three methods for the design and better results.
Laboratory tests are also important input for any of the above calculations.
From the different stress calculation results, it can be said that the middle reach of the HRT
alignment is more susceptible for squeezing problem. Since the tangential stress in the roof and
walls are higher than the rock mass strength, stability problems can be expected in roof and walls
as such required supports should be provided to meet such challenges.

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ROCK SUPPORT ESTIMATION

The in-situ rock mass are subjected to different stresses originating from gravitational,
topographic and tectonic stresses. These stresses cause instability to the underground structures.
The scale of instability is higher in the Himalayan geology where the tectonic activity is high.
Rock supports are provided to create safe working space during the construction, and stable
structure for the long time operation of the tunnels and caverns. The degree of the support system
varies depending on the purpose of structures, technical and financial capability of the projects.
Different types of support can be provided to counter the instabilities. This chapter discusses on
the different types of support systems and design procedures
6.1

Types of support system

Rock support is provided to improve safety and stability of unstable underground openings.
Different types of support are adopted based on the nature of stability problems. There cannot be a
single standard support for any stability problem. It has to be customized depending on rock mass
parameters, technology, time and money available. The best support system can be one which
provides reasonably best stability within minimum time and cost. Some of the commonly adopted
support systems in tunnel stability problem are discussed below.
6.1.1 Scaling
Scaling involves removal of disintegrated loose hanging rock fragments triggered by vibration
impact of blasting around the tunnel periphery. It is carried out immediately after every cycle of
blast at the face of the tunnel. Normally 20-30 minutes is required to remove the loose fragments
rocks. Different methods of scaling are
Manual scaling
Manual scaling is one of the oldest methods of scaling. The scaling is done from the piles of
blasted material or from wheel loaders as a platform. It is risky and has poor safety standards. It is
not much in use these days except in small drifts and shafts where machines cannot be used.
Figure 6.1 and 6.2 illustrates manual scaling.

Figure 6.1 Mannual scaling from muck pile (L) & from scissor plateform (R)

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Mechanical scaling
The scaling is done using the tunneling rig machines. This has improves safety standards and
consumes less time. In Bhutan, mechanical scaling is most widely practiced. Figure 5.2 illustrates
how mechanical scaling is done.

Figure 6.2 Mechanical scaling using drilling rigs

6.1.2 Rock bolts
Rock bolting is a flexible rock support which often forms the first line of support. The rock
bolting material stitches disintegrated loose fragmented rocks to the surrounding parent rock
mass. It is applied both as temporary and permanent support. Rock bolts can be classified with
different names based on its function, type and etc. some of the rock bolt classifications are
discussed below. An experienced construction engineer can make a sound judgment how and
where to install bolts according to the orientation of foliation and jointing.
Based on end anchoring
End anchorage provides early strength to the end length of rock bolts with its surrounding rock
mass. Different types of mechanism for bolt anchoring are devised. Some of the most commonly
methods in use are resin capsules, cement capsules or grout and expansion shell type.
Resin capsules give accelerated strength to the bolts. Normally resin capsule is provided in last
one third of the bolt length. . However the experts have discouraged the use of resin capsule in
squeezing ground condition
End anchorage is also provided by use of cement capsule or by cement grouting of the rock bolt.
Cement grouted rock bolt is better option in squeezing condition. But grouting the rock bolt in
inclined reach is difficult. Specific care should be taken so that the area between the bolt and
drilled space is filled with cement grout.

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Figure 6.3 Principal of installing expansion shell and grouted rock bolts

Based on bolt spacing

When the excavated rock face is competent with very little jointing and weakness zones, spot
bolting is provided only in localized area. A figure 6.4 shows spot bolting.

Figure 6.4 Illustration of spot bolting

When the rock mass is poor, a systematic bolting is provided throughout the cross sectional of the
tunnel. The spacing and the size of the bolting across the section will depend on the rock mass
parameter. Fig. 6.5 shows an example of pattern bolting. The pattern bolting may be provided
only in the crown, walls or the entire section of the tunnels depending on the rock mass.

Figure 6.5 Systematic pattern bolting

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Other types of bolts

Friction bolts are those bolts which use the friction between the bolt length and the surrounding
rock mass to take the load of the instable rock blocks. swellex bolts and split bolts are the
examples of this type of bolts.
Spilling bolts are used at the junctions and portals of the adits where the rock mass is poor. They
are installed ahead of the tunnel opening. The diameter and the length of the bolts vary from
20mm to 32m and 4 m to 6m respectively.
6.1.3 Shotcrete
A matrix of cement and fine aggregates is prepared and sprayed on the rock face. This matrix can
be sprayed either in dry form or mixed with water and sprayed as wet shotcrete. Depending on the
rock mass character, shotcrete can be used either as temporary or permanent support system. It
can be used alone or in combination with rock bolts, wiremesh and concrete lining. The thickness
of shotcrete can vary from few centimeters to 10-25 centimeter depending on the type of the rock
mass. Due to the safe working condition, wet shotcrete is mostly preferred for used in the tunnels.
Few centimeters of shotcrete is preferably used in very weak rock as the first line of support. This
can later be combined with rock bolts and other permanent supports systems. Just like the rock
bolts, shotcrete can also be applied at localized spots when the rock is good and throughout the
profile section when the rock mass is poor.

Figure 6.6 Systematic rock bolts with shotcrete

Use of 25mm-30mm long needle sized steel fiber is gaining acceptance as one of the most reliable
fast and flexible support system. it reinforces the strength property of the shotcrete. Micro silica is
used to improve the workability of the matrix. The experience has shown that use of 1% steel
fiber by the volume of concrete in the shotcrete improves the strength immensely.
6.1.4 Steel supports
Structural steels support is used in poor rock condition. The arching action of the structural steel
takes the loads and is used as the main support principle. The steel structures can also be
prefabricated and placed readily at the site. The space between the steel rib and the rock profile is
filled with metal block welded to the steel rib or some concrete blocks to get better contact with
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the rock mass. The space behind the steel section and excavated profile may be left un-concreted
or embedded in concrete lining at later date.
The Norwegian method uses steel reinforcement and fiber reinforced shotcrete as the permanent
support. It have been successfully used all over Norway and proved very versatile even in poor
rock mass conditions. The thickness and the spacing between the ribs can be adjusted depending
on the local condition of the geological strata. This method is found fast and cost effective. Fig.
6.7 illustrates the principle of Norwegian method.

Figure 6.7 Norwegian method of support

6.1.5 Cast in place concrete
It is permanent support system mostly used in poor and extremely poor rock mass. The concrete
is cast at site parallel with excavation. This can take considerable load compared to any other
supports. But it is also most time consuming and expensive methods of support. The cost
increases when structural steel sections are used in extremely poor rock strata. Now there are
prefabricated form works which can be readily installed at site making concreting work fast and
cost effective. Figure 6.8 shows the concrete lining supports.

Figure 6.8 Steel rib support with back fill concrete

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Concrete lining with heavy structural steel sections form the last support system in extremely poor
rock strata. If this cannot provide stability, then the tunnel alignments may have to be realigned to
get better rock condition. Normally probe drilling are done ahead of tunnel excavation and the
advance rate reduced with cautionary supports when the poor rock mass are detected.
6.1.6 Grouting.
Grouting is injection of matrix prepared from cement, fine aggregates and water into the
surrounding weak rocks. This improves the structural stability of the rock mass by filling the
empty voids. There are different grouting methods used in different tunneling conditions.
Pre-injection grouting is pumping grout into the weak rocks mass ahead of excavation. This
improves the strength and stability of the rock. Use of pre-injection grouting as permanent support
in the Himalayas has been successfully done in Nepal (Panthi, 2006).
In concrete lined tunnels, the concrete shrinks over time due to the heat of hydration. This creates
gap between the concrete and the surrounding rock. It leaves room for rock expansion and may
experience rock falls in future. In contact grouting; normally 1 foot deep hole is drilled into the
rock mass from the excavation line. Grouting is done through these holes eliminating the void
created by concrete shrinkage. Contact grouting is done behind concrete lined section and was
done extensively in Tala Project and Punatsangchu-I projects in Bhutan.
6.2

Designed support of Punatsangchu-II HRT.

The rock mass classification for the project is done using NGIs Q method and Bieniawskis RMR
method. Accordingly the rock mass parameters were calculated from the field observations and
rock mass was classified into following classes for the HRT alignment as tabulated in table 6.1.
Table 6-1 Rock mass rating value Q and rock classification ( WAPCoS,2011)
Sl. No
1
2
3
4
5
6

Rock Class
description
Very good rock
Good rock
Fair rock
Poor rock
Very poor rock
Extremely poor rock or
squeezing rock

Rock Class
Class-I
Class-II
Class-III
Class-IV
Class V
Extremely poor or
Squeezing rock

Q
value range
40 100
10 40
4 10
1 - 4
0.1 - 1
< 0.1

RMR
value range
77 - 100
64 - 77
56 - 64
50 - 56
35 - 50
< 35

The support system was worked out based on the above system of rock mass classification.
Different support combinations were designed for different values of rock mass rating value Q.
The rock mass classification and support system as designed for Punatsangchu-II project by the
consultant is presented in table 6.2.

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Table 6-2 Different rock class and support design for Punatsangchu II project
Sl.No

Rock class

Rock bolts

Shotcrete

Steel
section

Concrete
lining

1Class I

Excavation
diameter
(m)
12.10

25 spot R/B ,
5500mm long as
required

nil

550mm
thick plain
concrete

2Class II

12.10

25 mm spot
R/B 5500mm
long as required

nil

550mm
thick plain
concrete

3Class III

12.15

nil

575mm
thick plain
concrete

4Class IV

12.25

nil

5Class V

12.35

25mm R/B
5500mm long
@1500x1500
staggered.
25mm R/B
5500mm long @
1500x1000
staggered.
25mm R/B
staggered
@1500x1000

6Extremely
poor

12.35

25mm R/B
staggered
@1500x1000

7Squeezing

12.35

25mm R/B
staggered
@1500x1000

Local
application of
75mm thick
shotcrete as
required
75mm think
shotcrete in the
upper 1200
crown area
100mm thick
shotcrete till
the tangent
point.
125mm thick
shotcrete in
crown and
walls.
125 mm thick
shotcrete in
crown and
walls.
125mm thick
shotcrete in
crown and
walls
150mm thick
shotcrete in
crown and
walls

625mm
thick steel
reinforced
concerete
675mm
thick steel
reinforced
concerete
675mm
thick steel
reinforced
concerete
675mm
thick steel
reinforced
concerete

ISMB 250
@600 c/c
in heading
area.
ISMB 250
@400 c/c
in heading
area
ISMB 250
@400 c/c
in crown
and
throughout
walls.

Provision for 6m long 76mm drainage holes were provided during the construction for all rock
mass condition. 38mm , 300mm deep holes into the rock with alternate spacing of 3m for
contact grouting and 38mm , 10m deep holes at 3m spacing in alternate sections were provided
for consolidation grouting. The figurative representation of support systems is shown in the
figures from fig. 6.9 to fig 6.11.

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Figure 6.9 Rock support system for rock class I & class II

Figure 6.10 Rock support system for rock class III & class IV

Figure 6.11 Rock support for rock class V & extremely poor to squeezing condition
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6.3

Methods of rock support design

There are different types of rock mass classification systems practiced at different countries and
regions around the world. Each of these rock mass classification systems has its own approach
towards the design of support system. Some of the approaches and methods are widely followed
in certain countries and regions while few have gained acceptance internationally. The two
methods which have international recognition and acceptance are NGIs Q method and the
BIeniawskis RMR method. These are the two methods of rock mass classification used for
Punatsangchu II project. As such these two methods of rock support design is discussed in this
section.
6.3.1 NGIs Q method
The procedure for the classification of the rock mass is discussed in the chapter 5. From the
results of field inspection, the ratings for the different parameters of the rock mass are assigned to
different lengths or reaches along the tunnel alignment. Based on results of the six parameters, the
rock mass is classified into different classes as discussed in chapter 5. This rock mass
classification is used in combination with other properties of the tunnel.
Excavation support ration
There are different types of tunneling works carried out for different purposes. Each work, based
on their purpose and stability requirement are assigned with different rating values called the
excavation support ratio (ESR). In general, the total tunneling works are classified under six
different rating values (Barton et al. 1974) which is reproduced in Appendix B.
Equivalent dimension
The equivalent dimension (De) is the function of the size and type of tunnel excavation. It is the
ratio of the tunnel span, diameter or the wall height of the tunnel excavation to the excavation
support ratio (ESR).
Dt
De
............................................6(1)
ESR
After the rock mass parameters are defined, the rock is classified into different classes using their
Q values. Then excavation support ratio (ESR) of the tunnel is defined and the equivalent
dimension (De) calculated. The NGIs standard support chart developed by Grimstad & Barton in
1993 is used for support design. This chart gives the different combination of support system
depending on the different values of the Q and ratio of De/ESR. The best optimum choice of
support from these different combinations can be adopted for the project. The support chart is
given in figure 6.12.

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Figure 6.12 NGIs support chart ( Grimstaed & Barton, 1993)

Support system for Punatsangchu II project using NGIs Q method
The rock mass classification along the HRT varies from class II to class V with Q values ranging
from as small as o.3 to 6. The different class of rock for the HRT is separated into different
regions on the standard support charts as shown in figure 6.13 for class I to class VII.
The excavation support ratio for hydropower tunnels is 1.6 which is from standard excavation
support ratio table (Appendix B)
The excavation diameter of the head race tunnel is 6.175m and the excavation support ratio (ESR)
of 1.6, the equivalent dimension value is calculated as 3.86. This value is marked on the vertical
axis along Y on the support chart.
Length of rock bolts
The typical length of the rock bolts normally used in tunnels are 2-4 m with diameter ranging
from 20-25mm. in cavern the bolt length normally used is 6m with 25-32 mm diameter. The
Norwegian tunneling uses the following expression to find bolt length.
.6(2)

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Lb = 3.7m, where Dt is the diameter of the tunnel. However, the ideal way of estimating the bolt
length is from the rock mass conditions especially their block size in the field. Palmstrom (2000)
has suggested following expression for estimating the bolt lengths for roof and walls of tunnels.
0.1
Lbroof 1.4 0.16 Dt(1
).............................................................6(3)
Db

Lbwall 1.4 0.08( Dt 0.5Wt )(1

0.1
)..............................................6(4)
Db

Where, block diameter value of

is considered and Wt the tunnel wall height is (
According to these relations, the bolt length calculated is
for the roof and
the wall. The values for Db, Wt and Dt used is 1m, 6m and 12.35 m respectively.

).
for

Figure 6.13 Rock class & support combinations for Punatsangchu II according to Q method
Based on the combination of the above calculations and the procedures, the final support system
is designed using the standard support chart. The different support combinations arrived
accordingly is presented in Table 6.3
However, it has to be noted that the above support procedures are for the total temporary and
permanent supports in the roof only. For the walls, the height of the walls may be considered and
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slight modification for the Q values as given below may be adopted. Rest of the procedures
remains same.
For Q > 10 use Qwall = 5Q
For Q 0.1 < Q < 10 use Qwall = 2.5Q
For Q < 0.1 use Qwall = Q
Table 6-3 Support combination for Punatsangchu II HRT based on Q method
Rock class

Q value

Support as per NGI system

Class I

40-100

Unsupported

Class II

10-40

Spot bolting at localized areas to systematic R/B with maximum

spacing @2000x2000 and no shotcrete.

Class III

4-10

Systematic R/B with maximum spacing of @2500 c/c and plain

shotcrete with thickness from 40mm to100mm.

Class IV

1-4

Systematic R/B @2500 c/c with 40mm plain shotcrete to fiber

reinforced shorcrete with maximum thickness of 90mm depending on
the Q value.
Class V
0.1-1
Systematic R/B with spacing varying from 2500to 1700 c/c. in addition
minimum 40mm thick plain shotcrete to maximum of 150mm thick
fiber reinforced shotcrete depending on the Q value.
Extremely
<0.1
Systematic R/B with spacing from 1700 to1000 c/c. in addition
poor
shotcrete support varying few mm thick of plain shotcrete to 150mm
thick fiber reinforced shotcrete with concrete lining depending on the Q
value.
Squeezing
< 0.1
Systematic R/B with spacing from 1700 to1000 c/c. in addition
shotcrete support varying few mm thick of plain shotcrete to 150mm
thick fiber reinforced shotcrete with concrete lining depending on the Q
value.
The size of the rock bolt is 4m long with 25mm diameter

6.3.2 RMR method of support design

The rock mass classification based on the RMR system is discussed in previous chapter. Once the
classification is complete, the RMR methods give only the guide for excavation and rock support
in tunneling. The support system described by RMR method does not have a comparison support
chart like the Q method. The supports guide can at best be used as a tool to check rather than a
standard for support design. The excavation guide and support system as given by Bieniawski
(Bieniawski 1989) is as presented in table 6.4 below.

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Table 6-4 Support combination for Punatsangchu II based on RMR method

Shape: Horse shoe; width: 10m; Vertical stress: below 25 MPa; Excavation by drill & blast.
Rock
Excavation
Support
Mass class
Rock bolt ( 20mm Shotcrete
Steel sets
dia, fully grouted )
1 V.good rock. Full face: 3m advance
Generally no support required except for occasional spot
RMR: 81-100
bolting
2 Good rock:
Full face 1.0-1.5m
Locally bolts in
50mm in crown
None
RMR : 61-80
advance; complete
crown, 3m long,
where required.
support 20m from face
spaced 2.5m with
occasional wire
mesh.
3 Fair rock ;
Top heading and bench: Systematic bolt 4m 50-100mm in
None
RMR: 41-60
1.5- 3m advance in top
long; spaced 1.5crown and 30mm
heading; commence
2m in crown and
in sides.
support after each blast; walls with wire
commence support 10m mesh in crown.
from face.
4 Poor rock ;
Top heading and bench; Systematic bolt 4- 100-150mm in
Light ribs spaced
RMR : 21-40
1.0-1.5m advance in top 5m long; spaced 1- crown and 100mm 1.5m where
heading; install support 1.5m in crown and in sides.
required
concurrently with
walls with wire
excavation 10m from
mesh.
face.
5 very poor
Multiple drift;
Systematic bolt 5- 150-200mm in
Medium to heavy
rock; RMR <
0.5-1.5m advance in top 6m long; spaced 1- crown, 150mm in
ribs spaced 0.75m
21
heading; install support 1.5m in crown and sides and 50mm
with steel lagging
concurrently with
walls with wire
on face.
and forepoling if
excavation; shotcrete as mesh. Bolt invert.
required. Closed
soon as possible after
invert.
blasting.

6.4

Comparison and comments on the support systems

The following observations were made from the above two support standard charts and the
designed support for the project.
Neither Bartons Q support chart nor the Bieniawskis support guide gives any provision for
increased excavation diameter in poor and squeezing condition to compensate for the squeezing.
There has to be some change in the excavation size in differing rock condition. This aspect was
taken care of in the support system in Punatsangchus case.
The rock mass classification system adopted for the project is from Q and RMR system. But, the
supports were on very conservative side. This could be due to the erratic changing nature of the
rock mass in the Himalayas.
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In the Q methods, the support is mainly focused on the combination of bolting with shotcrete
adjusting with spacing in bolting; thickness and fiber reinforcement in the shotcrete, but the RMR
do not say anything on reinforced shotcrete but is supplemented by the use of wire mesh. The use
of wire mesh is almost obsolete in the tunnels except in inclined shafts excavated manually.
The RMR system can be used only as a guide and not as a design reference. Even the supports in
Q system may be very optimistic for the Himalayan geology. The support designed based on this
could be in adequate for the Himalayan geology.
The provision of concrete lining for the whole reach of the tunnel may not be required from
stability but only to reduce frictional head loss. The Q method specifies concrete lining only in
rock class VI and below where squeezing is imminent but its provided throughout the length of
the tunnel for this project. The possibility of avoiding full concrete lining and replacing by
shotcrete lining may be worth a try.
The advantage of self supporting capacity of the rock is not used much effectively. This could be
tried in combination with pre consolidation grouting instead of using very expensive concrete
lining. This could save lots of time and money.
A very conservative approach of support system was adopted for the project. This may help keep
geological problems at bay, but the cost implication can be very high. This could be due to high
variability of the rock mass even within short span of tunneling length. This can however be
optimized by following a dynamic continuous process of design based on the actual rock mass
condition in tunneling during the execution stage.

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6.5

Measures to reduce stability problems by shape and size of tunnel opening

The magnitude of the stresses in the underground cannot be changed. It depends on the character
of the rock mass and its discontinuities. But influence of stresses on the opening can be reduced
by adjusting the size and the shape of the underground opening. Knowing the magnitude and
direction of the stresses, we can adjust our opening geometry to minimize the affect of stress in
the opening. Some recommendation for the shape and size of the opening which can be adopted in
specific condition of stresses is given in fig. 6.14.

Figure 6.14 Recommended shape of tunnels according to stress condition

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6.6

Conclusion and discussion on rock classification and support system

Use of more than one system of rock mass classification in the field has good advantage. It will
help in events of discrepancies of values during later dates. NGIs Q system and Bieniawskis RMR
system was used for Punatsangchu-II project.
The Himalayas rocks are normally very poor with lots of discontinuities and weakness zones
created by the active tectonic activity. The geology in the Himalayas changes greatly within very
short distances exposing uncertainties. From the geotechnical report, the HRT passes through
mixture of good to very poor rock mass intercepted by few prominent shear and numerous cross
joint sets. A conservative support system was adopted for the tunnels as compared with the
supports derived from Q method. The whole length of HRT is provided with concrete lining
which is a traditional approach followed in projects in India and Bhutan.
Probe drilling and pre injection grouting are very important to be carried out in weak zones where
seepage problems can be encountered. This can save lots of time and money instead of waiting for
the tunnel to collapse and going for remedy measures at later date. The self supporting capacity of
the rock mass is not explored well. Pre-injection grouting technology was found to be effectively
used in Nepal (Panthi, 2006) as such the same may be explored in tunnels in Bhutan which lies in
the same Himalayan range. This could save lots of time and money.
In the good rock mass reach, lighter flexible support system as required by the site condition
could have been adopted instead of conservative support. Provision of consolidation grouting in
whole tunnel reach may not be required, contact grouting should be adequate. However the
seepage in tunnel should be pre explored and pre-injection grouting adopted where high seepage
are expected. Exploratory probing ahead of the excavation in the suspected weak zones may be
adopted and necessary support system adjusted. This will save lots of time and money.

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Numerical modeling

The designs of underground structures are traditionally done using empirical methods before the
advent of computer programs. These empirical methods were found easy and handy by field
geologist and construction engineers. However, due to complex nature of the rock mass, the
empirical methods face limitation in its application in complex geometries. Empirical methods are
still effective for simple and regular geometry with homogeneous rock masses. Numerical
analysis is sub group of analytical method. It uses computers to analyses stress on models
prepared representing the rock mass. This gives enhanced results on models at very minute details
with two dimension visual outputs. The fast and powerful computers facilitate discretization of
rock mass into large number of smaller elements. The numerical analysis can be used for stress
analysis, deformations, elemental and support yielding details and for cross checking the support
systems. Use of more than one method increases advantage in design of underground structures.
More design methods will compliment the effectiveness of each other.
Despite all advancement, the accuracy of results from computer software and codes are still
dependent on the accuracy in defining the input parameters. The input rock mass datas required
are direction, magnitude of virgin stresses and elasticity parameters of rock mass which still is
challenging. The effectiveness of the analysis depends on the quality of input parameter and right
interpretation of the results by an experienced person. The reliability of the analysis will never be
more than the reliability of input parameters.
The numerical models can be grouped into two types.
1

Continuous models:- In continuous models, the rock mass is considered as a continuous

medium with only limited numbers of discontinuity. Different computer software available
in continuous models include
Finite element method (FEM)
Finite differential method (FDM) and
Boundary element method (BEM)

Discontinuous models:- In discontinuous models, the rock mass is modeled as individual

elements blocks which is free to rotate, translate and interact along their boundaries.
Different computer software available in discontinuous models includes
Distinct element method (DEM)
Discontinuous displacement Analysis (DDA).

7.1

Phase2

Phase2 is a two dimensional elasto-plastic finite element programme. It is used for estimating the
stresses and displacement around the underground openings (reference manual, rock science). It
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can also be used to solve wide range of mining, geotechnical and civil engineering problems. The
basic features of Phase2 for the application includes
Excavation in rocks or soil
Multi stage excavation
Elastic or plastic material analysis
Bolt support
Liner support (shotcrete, concrete/piles/geosysthesis)
Constant or gravity field stresses
Jointed rocks
Plain stress or axisymmetry
Ground water (pore pressure is inclusive in analysis)
Finite element slope stability and load split etc.
7.1.1 Assumptions
Phase2 uses a plane strain analysis where two principal in-situ stresses are in the plane of
excavation and the third principal stress is out of plane. This assumption is to dissolve the 3-D
stress tensor into three orthogonal stresses which are aligned with the 2-D model of the
excavation. The axisymmetric option of phase2 program can be used to analyze three dimensional
excavations which are rotationally symmetric about an axis. But, hydropower tunnels are rarely
symmetric.
The excavation section is assumed constant and the excavation is of finite length in out-plane
direction, therefore three dimensional end effects are not encountered. The shear stresses and
strains in the out of plane are considered nil.
7.1.2 Phase2 working
The phase2 programme mainly comprise of three important features. The first task is creating the
module by providing necessary input parameters from the field. After feeding the required input
datas, the module is simulated and parametric results are calculated. The results of calculation are
finally presented both graphically and figuratively. The interpretation of the result by an
experienced engineer is important to get better understanding of the stress situations and solutions
thereof. The working of the phase2 can be illustrated figuratively as shown in figure 7.1.

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Figure 7.1 Three module operation of

Module
Module is the creation of field replica of the rock mass providing input parameters. The boundary
conditions, in-situ stresses, material properties, meshing, staging sequences, excavations, and any
other relevant input parameters required for creating the module are done at this stage. To get
better results, its important to create models that are closest and representative of rock mass
condition. The remaining steps from here are calculation of outputs based on inputs provided in
this step. Other conditions in the models like creation of elastic or plastic models, combination of
supports etc can be customized accordingly.
Compute
Once all the required input parameters for generating module is complete, the module is ready for
simulation, the computer carries out computation of stresses and deformation pertaining to this
module.
Interpret
The computed results of the module are displayed graphically for the stress conditions, strength
factors, displacement vectors and yield elements etc. as required. The experienced interpretation
of the results is very important to get logical conclusions from the modeling. If the results are not
interpreted properly, the beautiful display of results has no meaning, so it needs an experienced
person to interpret the results of the simulation.
7.2

Module generation

This section briefly describes the process involved in module generation giving step by step
procedures and describing the significance of each step.
Project setting
In this stage, the user sets the name of the projects, the type of measurement unit used, analysis
type and the ground water methods. the number of stages etc.
The analysis can be performed either using Plane strain or by axisymmetric option. The plane
strain module assumes the excavation as infinite length normal to the section of analysis and
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assumes the out-of-plane stress as zero. This analysis computes major and minor in-plane
principal stresses, out-of-plain principal stresses and in-plain displacement and strain.
Boundary conditions
The boundary conditions for the excavation and external limits are defined. This is mandatory for
generating the module. These boundaries are formed by close poly lines. In large openings, staged
excavation may be necessary, so staged boundary have to be created. The external boundary
encompasses all other mesh boundaries. It can be defined either as rectangular box or circular
shape around the excavated boundry. Other boundaries include material, joints, structural
interface and piezometric line. To separate the different material type in the rock mass, material
boundary is used. The end boundaries can also be restricted or free depending on the nature of
analysis.
Meshing
The element mesh can be of graded type or uniform types which can be customized. The finite
elements can be generated either in triangular (three nodes or six nodes) or quadrilateral by an
automatic two dimensional finite element mesh generator. The meshing discretize the boundaries
to build a framework of the finite element mesh. After discrediting, mesh set up option generates
the finite element mesh within the defined external boundary. If required advanced mesh set up
can be used to fine tune the grading for better results.
Field stresses
The in-situ stress conditions and their values are defined prior to excavation. The field stresses is
defined by either constant or gravity. Constant field stress is used for deep seated openings to
define the in-situ stress condition which do not vary with depth. The gravity field stress defines
in-situ stress condition for surface or shallow seated openings where the stress conditions vary
with the variation of depths in topography of the surface.
Material properties
The materials can be defined as either elastic or plastic in material properties. The elasticity or
plasticity of the material and its strength parameters are customized. The initial element loading
defines the initial loading of the material which can be under field stress or body force. For
constant field stress, the initial element loading is from field stress only but for gravity field stress
the field stress and the body force are the initial stress element. The body force is the load due to
the self weight of the material derived from the unit weight of the material. The elastic property of
the material can be defined as isotopic, transversely isotopic, orthotropic and Duncun-Chang
hyperbolic material. The Youngs modulus and poisons ratio are required to define isotopic
material. The strength parameter allows user to define failure criterion of the material and the
material type. The failure criterion can be chosen from different options available like MohrColumb, Hoek and Brown, Drucker-Prager, Generalised Hoek and Brown etc. and other input
parameters defined accordingly. In generalized Hoek & Brown and Mohr-Columb the input
parameters can be imported using RocData.

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The elastic materials do not fail but the failure criteria are used to calculate and plot its degree of
strength factors. But in plastic material, when the materials yields its strength parameter is used
for stress analysis. Residual and dilation parameters are required for plastic materials. When the
residual strength factor is equal to its peak strength, the material is considered ideally elastic
plastic. The dilation parameter defines the increment in volume of the material due to shear.
Support
There are different types of support options available in Phase2. The types of supports include
different rock bolts, shotcrete and concrete liners. The support if not available in the list of
supports in Phase2, can be customized depending on the needs. The support parameters pertaining
to compressive and tensile strength, youngs modulus, etc have to be defined. The support is
assigned to the model at different stages of excavation. The model is simulated and analyzed first
without support and then with support. The results of this exercise guide the need for supports
depending on the changing values of principal stresses, strength factor and deformation values.
The values of deformation, strength factor and principal stresses are studied for different
combinations of support and an optimum supports is decided when the best combination is
achieved. This decides the stability of the tunnel opening.
7.3

Input parameters

Three sections at different locations is selected representing the whole length of the HRT. The
first section is at the take off point and the second at the end of HRT alignment. The third section
is taken at the mid length where the rock cover is also in the range of maximum values. There is
no core drilling works conducted along the HRT layout. As such the laboratory test of the rock
mass properties available for the Dam complex and power house are used for the HRT sections.
For the first sections due to its closeness to the dam complex, the laboratory results of rock mass
properties at dam is considered, on similar reasoning the rock mass properties for the power house
area is used for the last section. In the middle section, the average values at dam and power house
locations are adopted for all calculations and numerical modeling purpose. The final values of the
rock mass properties for the three sections are tabulated in table 7.1
Table 7-1 Input parameters for numerical model
Properties
Intact strength ci (MPa).
Youngs Modulus Eci (MPa)
GSI
Disturbance factor D
Material constant mi
Unit weight of rock ( (KN/m3)
Poisons ratio
mb
s
a
Rock mass strength cm (MPa)
Deformation modulus (MPa)

Ch.0.0m
58.3
6623.4
45
0.5
30
2.60
0.34
2.19
0.0006
0.51
11.09
841.60

Ch. 4167m
49.27
5511.6
45
0.5
30
2.59
0.28
2.19
0.0006
0.51
9.11
648.80

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

Ch. 8584.3m
40.25
4409.8
45
0.5
30
2.57
0.22
2.19
0.0006
0.51
6.79
466.30

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The above input parameters are used for generating models at each section. The other parameters
are also provided to each section according to its requirement.
Field stresses
The stress condition is considered an-isotopic which is normal in the rock is mass. The in plane
and out of plane stress components of the horizontal stress values were calculated considering the
tunnel orientation with reference to the north direction. The locked in horizontal stress at the
ground surface for both the planes were calculated by dissolving the tectonic stress value of 5
MPa which is oriented north south direction along the tunnel alignment and other parameters are
considered accordingly.
Support parameter
Different combinations of supports were used for the models. The different support and their
support parameters used in the model is shown in table 7.2.

Table 7-2 Rock supports and their strength parameters used in models
Rock Bolt
Diameter (mm)
Length (m)
Youngs Modulus
(MPa)
Tensile strength
Peak (MPa)
Tensile strength
Residual (MPa)
Type

7.4

0.1

Fiber reinforced shotcrete

Youngs modulus (MPa)
Compressive strength Peak ( MPa)
Compressive strength residual
(MPa)
Poissons ratio

0.01

Liner type

25
5
200000

30000
35
5
0.2
Standard
beam

End anchorage

Interpretation of results

Once the model is prepared the relevant input parameters, the phase2 displays the results in
different formats like graphic and tabulated Excel sheets. Some important results are discussed in
this section.
Principal stresses.
The phase2 simulation result gives the values of the three main principal stresses. The major
principal stress
and minor principal stress 3 are mutually perpendicular to each other and z
is perpendicular but in out plane direction. The value of 3 can be either smallest or in medium
range depending on the value of z. The magnitude and direction of the principal stresses are
shown by the cross bars in stress trajectory. The values of all three can be displayed along the
periphery of the tunnel opening. As heavier support systems are adopted, the values of the
principal stresses reduce indicating improved stability along the tunnel periphery.
Strength factor
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Strength factor indicates the stability of the tunnel around its periphery. Strength factor is the ratio
between the rock mass strength to the induced stress at the location. This is influenced by the
major principal stresses. In elastic material, the strength factor is less than 1 since the over
stressing of the material is allowed. However in plastic materials, the strength factor has to be
above 1 since over stressing is not allowed. The strength factor for the models improves as the
support intensity increases but after certain optimum support value, the change in support
decreases the strength factor. This is used for deciding the optimum combination of supports.
Displacement
The phase2 results give the displacement values in horizontal, vertical direction and the total
displacement. The total displacement value is the resultant displacement of the horizontal and
vertical displacement given by

Totaldispl acement X 2 Y 2
The total displacement values also decreases with the increase in support intensity. But after
certain limits , increase in support intensity do not decrease the deformation values. This behavior
of the rock mass is also used in deciding the optimization of support combination.
Yielded elements
The yielded element is applicable only in plastic material. It gives the number of yielded
elements, the rock bolts and liners in finite elements. The elements that fail in shear is represented
by x and the elements that fail in tension is represented by o. where the failure is due to both, it
presents the over lapping of the x and the o. the number of yielded elements and supports are used
for the optimum design of the rock support system.
7.5

Numerical modeling results

Three sections, one at the take off point, end point and the middle point of the head race tunnel
was considered for numerical modeling. The models at each section were prepared with the input
rock mass parameters as detailed in input parameters. The models were then checked for possible
hydraulic fracturing problems. Different support system as detailed in e ach case was tried for
each model. The final support system is decided with the optimum results of the principal stress
values, strength factor and total deformation values for each section of tunnel location. This
chapter discusses the results of numerical modeling at the three selected reach of the head race
tunnel alignment for Punatsangchu II project.
7.5.1 Support analysis at Ch.0.0m (Take off point)
The valley slope model was prepared for the section at Ch. 0.0m. The elastic model with the
gravity stress condition was analyzed for getting the values of principal stresses. The minor
principal stress at the tunnel location is checked for Hydraulic fracturing. The result is given in
figure 7.2.

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Figure 7.2 Valley slope model for hydraulic fracture and minor principal stress at Ch.0.0m.

The minimum principal stress at tunnel location is 6.29 MPa. The hydrostatic pressure at the same
location is only 0.39 MPa, which is very small compared with the minimum principal stress value.
Therefore it can be concluded that the tunnel at this section is free from hydraulic fracturing
problem.
The principal stresses at this location from the valley slope model are given below.

1 8.93MPa

3 6.57MPa

Orientatio n : 16 0

For further computation purpose, the value for minor principal stress and intermediate principal
stress is taken same given by the minimum of 3 or the value given by kirschs equation

t max 3 1 3
Based on this constant stress inputs and other rock mass parameters given in input parameter
table, the models at this section is prepared and simulated for stability analysis as described here
under.
Elastic analysis
Elastic analysis is carried out for calculation of the strength factor along the periphery of the
tunnel opening. Since the elastic does not permit over stressing, the strength factor value is less
than 1. The strength factor for elastic modeling is given in figure 7.3

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Figure 7.3 Strength factor diagram at Ch. 0.0m for elastic analysis.
It can be seen from the figure that the strength factor values are less than 1 in most of the areas.
The region of over stressing are concentrated at the crown and up to the spring level. In the invert
level the strength factor is greater than 1 signifying higher rock mass strength than induced
strength.
Plastic analysis
The results of the major principal stress, strength factor and the total deformation for the plastic
analysis at Ch.0.0m are given in figure 7.4 to figure 7.6
The principal stress value ranges from 0.5 MPa in the left heading level to a maximum of 9MPa in
the left invert.

Figure 7.4 Principal stress sigma1 value for plastic analysis for tunnel section at Ch.0.0m.

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Figure 7.5 Strength factor value for plastic analysis for tunnel section at CH.0.0m

Figure 7.6 Total displacement value for plastic analysis for tunnel section at Ch.0.0m
The strength factor is just above 1 which says that the induce stress values are equally high
comparable to the rock mass strength.
The total displacement of the tunnel without the support arrangement is 0.14m with 1345
numbers of yielded elements. The total displacement is not very high so no serious support
systems may be required. The maximum displacement is seen on the crown area.
Plastic analysis with rock support
Plastic analysis with different combinations of support system was carried out. The total
displacement from plastic analysis without support is very small so the need for heavy support
does not arise. However different combinations of support system was tried to optimize on
stability by comparing the different values of principal stress, strength factor, total displacement ,
yielded elements, bolts and liners with each combination. The final support was decided
considering all this factors.
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Table 7-3 Support combinations and their stability results

Support combination

Sigma1
MPa
4.5

SF

TD (m)

Y-E
Nos.
1352

Y-Bolts
(Nos)
18

Y- Liners
(Nos)
217

R/B @ 2x2 & 75mm

1.06
0.16
thk SFRS
R/B @1.5x1.5 &
9.35
1.06
0.14
1245
24
218
100mm thk. SFRS
R/[email protected] &
9.40
1.06
0.14
1526
24
214
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
10.69
1.06
0.14
1190
30
200
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
8.5
1.06
0.15
1265
30
218
150mm thk SFRS
Note: R/B: Rock bolts, thk : thickness, SFRS: fiber reinforced shotcrete, ISMB: Indian standard m. beam,
SF: strength factor ,TD: total Displacement, Y-E: yielded elements, Y-Bolts: yielded bolts, Y-liners;
yielded liners

The results for the stability for various combinations of supports are shown in figure 7.7 to figure
7.9

Figure 7.7 Sigma1 for 1.5mx1.5m R/b and 100mm thick shotcrete support at Ch. 0.0m

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Figure 7.8 Strength factor for 1.5mx1.5mR/B and 100mm thick Shotcrete support at Ch. 0.0m.

Figure 7.9 Total displacement vector for 1.5mx1.5m R/B and 100mm thick shotcrete support.

The final support is chosen based on the deformation values, number of yielded element and
supports. The total displacement of 0.14m for a tunnel diameter of 12.35 m is within the
acceptable limit. Attempt for heavier reinforcement will only increase the cost and does not
change the stability condition any better. As such a final reinforcement of 5m long rock bolts
spaced at 1.5mx1.5m and reinforced shotcrete of 100mmm thick throughout the whole length of
walls and crown is found adequate.
7.5.2 Support analysis at Ch. 4167m
The valley slope model was prepared for the section at Ch. 4167m. The elastic model with the
gravity stress condition was analyzed for getting the values of principal stresses. The minor
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principal stress value at the tunnel location is checked for Hydraulic fracturing. The result is given
in figure 7.10

Figure 7.10 Valley slope model for hydraulic fracture and principal stress values at Ch.4167m
The minimum value of principal stress at the tunnel section is 8.29 MPa. The hydrostatic pressure
at the same location is only 0.58 MPa, which makes it less likely to have any hydraulic fracturing
problems due to hydro static head.
The principal stresses at this location from the valley slope model are given below.

1 14.5MPa

3 8.29MPa

Orientatio n : 0

For further computation purpose, the value for minor principal stress and intermediate principal
stress is taken same given by the minimum of 3 or the value given by kirschs equation

t max 3 1 3
Elastic analysis
Elastic analysis is carried out for calculation of the strength factor along the periphery of the
tunnel opening. Since the elastic does permit over stressing, the strength factor value is less than
1. The strength factor for elastic modeling is given in figure 7.3

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Figure 7.11 Strength factor for elastic model at Ch.4167m

The stressing is more on the crown area with the minimum strength factor at these locations. In
the invert areas the strength factor is close to 1 meaning the induced stress in the rock equivalent
to the rock mass strength.
Plastic analysis
The plastic analysis is carried out for the tunnel at the same section. The results of various results
are given in figures from figure 7.12 to figure 7.14.
The principal stress value ranges from 0.8 MPa in the left heading level to a maximum of 9MPa in
the left invert. The principal stress in the crown area is not very high.

Figure 7.12 Principal stress value for plastic analysis at Ch.4167m

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Numerical Modelling

Figure 7.13 Strength factor for plastic analysis at Ch.4167m

Figure 7.14 Total displacement for plastic analysis at Ch.4167m

The strength factor around the tunnel periphery is just above 1 meaning that the induce stress
values are equal to the rock mass strength.
The total displacement of the tunnel without the support arrangement is 0.349m and has 1404
yielded elements. The displacement is higher than 2% of the tunnel dimension. There can be
possible instability problems due to high deformation values. As such rock supports is required
Plastic analysis with rock support
The models are analyzed for stability assessment with different support combinations. The total
displacement in plastic analysis is high necessitating supports. Different support combinations
were tried to bring down the deformation and yielded elements. Different values are presented in
table 7.4. The final support combination is decided based on the total displacement, major
principal stress and strength factor values. The result for the final support arrangement is
presented in figures 7.15 to figure 7.17.
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Table 7-4 Support combination and stability results for section at Ch.4167m
Support combination

Sigma1
MPa

SF

TD (m)

Y-E
Nos.

Y-Bolts
(Nos)

Y -Liners
(Nos)

R/B @1.5x1.5 &

6
1.06
0.39
1379
24
222
100mm thk. SFRS
R/[email protected] &
3.75
1.06
0.41
1378
24
222
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
3
1.06
0.42
1402
30
222
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
6.8
1.06
0.35
1330
29
222
150mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
200mm thk SFRS with
23.4
1.06
0.19
731
29
Nil
ISMB 250 @750 c/c.
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
250mm thk SFRS with
22
1.06
0.19
656
30
nil
ISMB 250 @500 c/c.
Note: R/B: Rock bolts, thk : thickness, SFRS: fiber reinforced shotcrete, ISMB: Indian standard m. beam

It can be seen from the behavior trend that total deformation value is very high to be contained by
simple combination of rock bolt and shotcrete. However with increasing support intensity, the
major principal stress increases while the strength factor remains same. The yielding elements and
the supports reduce with introduction of structural steel support. The support combination of 5m
long rock bolts at 1.2mx1.2m spacing with 250mm thick fiber reinforced shotcrete and structural
steel bean ISMB 250 @ 500 c/c has brought down the total displacement within permissible limit
of 1.5%. The results are displayed in figure 7.15 to figure 7.17

Figure 7.15 Sigma1 value for 1.2x1.2 R/B , 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB 250@500 at Ch.4167m
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Figure 7.16 Strength factor for 1.2x1.2 R/B, 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB 250 @500at Ch.4167m

Figure 7.17 Total displacement for1.2x1.2 R/B, 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB @500at Ch.4167m
7.5.3 Support analysis Ch.8584.3m
The valley slope model for the section at Ch. 8584.29m is presented in figure 7.18. The principal
stress values are generated by loading the model under gravity stress. The section is tested for
possible hydraulic fracturing problem due to stress accumulation

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Figure 7.18 Hydraulic fracturing problem test at section at Ch. 8584.3m

The minimum principal stress at the tunnel location is 3.11 MPa. The hydrostatic pressure at the
same location is only 0.78 MPa. The difference between two values is not very large, so if there is
tectonic activity exceeding the tectonic stress of 5MPa or other geological uncertainties;
possibilities of hydraulic fracturing due to high hydro static pressure cannot be over ruled.
However since the whole length of the tunnel is provided with concrete lining, there is no
possibility of instability due to static water pressure.

1 3.43MPa

3 3.11MPa

Orientatio n : 110

For further computation purpose, the value for minor principal stress and intermediate principal
stress is taken same given by the minimum of 3 or the value given by kirschs equation
t max 3 1 3
Elastic analysis
Elastic analysis is carried out for calculation of the strength factor along the periphery of the
tunnel opening. Since the elastic does permit over stressing, the strength factor value is less than
1. The strength factor for elastic modeling is given in figure 7.19

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Figure 7.19 Strength factor for elastic model at Ch.8584.3m

The sections along the periphery of the opening are equally stressed except at few locations on the
invert at two corners where the strength factor is above 1.
Plastic analysis
The plastic analysis is carried out for the tunnel at the same section. The results of various results
are given in figures from figure 7.20 to figure 7.22.
The major principal stress value ranges from 0.6 MPa in the left heading level to a maximum of
4.40MPa in the invert. The principal stress in the crown area is not very high.

Figure 7.20 Major Principal stress value for plastic analysis at Ch.8584.3m

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Numerical Modelling

Figure 7.21 Strength factor for plastic analysis at Ch.8584.3m

Figure 7.22 Total displacement for plastic analysis at Ch.8584.3m

The strength factor is just above 1 meaning that the induce stress values are equally high
comparable to the rock mass strength.
The total displacement of the tunnel without the support arrangement is 0.11m and has 1247
numbers of yielded elements. The displacement is very small even without support. Due to low
deformation, the stability can be achieved by very light flexible supports.
Plastic analysis with rock support
The models are analyzed for stability assessment with different support combinations. The total
displacement without support in plastic analysis is very low; as such no heavy support
combinations may be required. Different support combinations and the corresponding stress and
deformation values are presented in Table no.7.5. providing of heavy support is not required since
the deformation values are minimal. The support of 5m long rock bolts, 1.2mx1.2m spacing with
100mm thick shotcrete is found sufficient for this section. The results of other stress and
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Numerical Modelling

deformation situations are shown through figure 7.23 to figure 7.25. and the support combination
shown in table 7.5
Table 7-5 Support combinations and their stress and deformation values at Ch.8584.3m
Support combination

Sigma1
MPa

SF

TD (m)

Y-E
Nos.

Y-Bolts
(Nos)

Y -Liners
(Nos)

R/B @1.5x1.5 &

5.25
1.06
0.094
1068
18
192
100mm thk. SFRS
R/[email protected] &
5.4
1.06
0.104
903
24
176
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
5.75
1.06
0.096
896
24
196
120mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
5.1
1.06
0.086
962
29
197
150mm thk SFRS
R/B @1.2x1.2 &
200mm thk SFRS with
7.8
1.06
0.075
659
29
179
ISMB 250 @750 c/c.
Note: R/B: Rock bolts, thk : thickness, SFRS: fiber reinforced shotcrete, ISMB: Indian standard m. beam

Figure 7.23 Sigma1 value for 1.2x1.2 R/B , 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB 250@500 at Ch.8584.3m

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Figure 7.24 Strength factor for 1.2x1.2 R/B, 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB 250 @500at Ch.8584.3m

Figure 7.25 Total displacement for1.2x1.2 R/B, 250mm thk SFRS & ISMB @500at Ch.8584.3
The major principal stress is concentrated on the invert levels with smaller values on the crown.
No rock failures from the crown are likely. The strength factor is same along the periphery of the
opening. The deformation values are very small and have the maximum at the spring level and
minimum on right invert.

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7.5.4 Concluding Remarks

The possibility of hydraulic fracturing to the rock mass due to high static water pressure results
was checked by empirical methods. The results give the tunnels safe from instability due to high
static water pressure. This was further confirmed by the numerical valley model where minor
principal stress values were found much higher than the hydrostatic pressure along all the three
sections. Providing of final concrete lining in the whole reach of HRT sections will further add to
the stability of the tunnels. However during the tunnel excavation, the actual site conditions can
be updated and pre injection grouting will be needed where the tunnel seepages are high.
The orientation and the magnitudes of the principal stresses along the periphery of the tunnels are
influenced greatly by the height of rock cover. The numerical modeling in the first and last
sections where the rock over burden is not high and the topography of the sections influences the
orientation of the principal stresses. In the middle section at Ch.4167 where the rock cover is
fairly higher, the topography affect on the principal stress orientation is very small.
The tunnel deformation at the two sections at Ch.0.0m and Ch.8584.3m is small which needs very
light support combination. Adopting heavy support system in these reach will only add to higher
cost without affecting stability situation significantly. However the middle section at Ch.4167m
due to high rock cover has high deformation values around the tunnel periphery. The empirical
stability analysis also predicted some degree of deformation in this reach. Various rock support
combination with systematic rock bolting, reinforced shotcrete and structural steel was carried
out. The total deformation, principal stress and the yielded elements, and supports were
considered while deciding the final support at different. However, the support systems calculated
based on these results are not very realistic, for better reliable support design, a continuous design
approach parallel with the excavation with actual stress and discontinuities inputs will be the best
method of design approach.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Conclusion

Conclusions

Tunneling through the young Himalayan geological formation is very challenging job. The rock
mass properties keep changing even within short distances propelling more challenges and
uncertainties to the designers and executors alike. No single standard approach can be applied in
such diverse Himalayan geological condition. The best approach could be one that adapts to the
dictates of the field condition and comes up with adequate degree of safety standards within the
available funding. The role of more detailed geotechnical investigation during the prefeasibility
and feasibility study phase is very important. However due to the constraints of time and fund
only the basic necessary investigations are carried out for most of the projects in developing
countries. Following are some of the observations and recommendations from the findings of this
thesis study.
The main foliation orientations were adequately taken care in the layout design of the HRT
alignment. However there are still room for optimization to tunnel alignment with cross joints and
other discontinuities within the same limits of the total project layout. These features were
discussed under alternate layout chapter.
The overall rock mass parameters along the HRT alignment is through reasonably fair condition.
The possibility of instability to the rock along the tunnel opening is ruled out both by the
empirical analysis and further confirmed by the numerical analysis on hydraulic fracturing.

Minor rock falls and spalling from the crown and overt areas of the tunnel opening is possible
since the rock mass strength in some cases along the alignment is lower than the induced stresses.
This can be taken care by providing timely support combinations as deliberated in the support
systems.
No major squeezing due to high stresses is expected during the tunnel execution. However minor
squeezing problems in the reaches where high rock covers can be anticipated. Probe drilling and
pre-injection grouting in susceptible areas of weakness zones can safe both time and money.
The support systems adopted for the HRT alignment is on higher side compared to the support
requirement as per the NGIs Q method which infact was the basis of rock mass classification for
this project. The numerical methods can only be used as a measure to cross check the designed
supports rather than as method for designing support system. The reliability of the numerical
modeling and analysis can be best achieved when the actual rock mass input parameters are
considered from the actual tunneling conditions at site.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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References

References
Barton N, Line R. and Lunde J in 1974, Engineering classification of rock mass for the design of
tunnel support. Rock mechanics, Vol.6 pp. 189-236
Benson R.P (1989). Design of Unlined and Lined Pressure Tunnels. Tunnelling and underground
space technology, Vol-4, PP. 155-170.
Bieniawski Z.T (1993). Classification of Rock masses for Engineering.The RMR-system and
future trends. Comprehensive Rock Engineering. J.A. Hudson ed, Vol-3, pp. 553-573.
Edvardsson S. and Broch E. (2002). Underground Power House and High Pressure tunnels.
Hydropower Development Series 14. Department of Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering,
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, p-99
Grimstad E. and Barton N. (1993). Updating the Q-system for NMT. Proceedings of the
international symposium on sprayed concrete- modern use of wet mix sprayed concrete for
underground support, Fagernes. Norwegian Concrete Association, Oslo, Norway.
Hoek E .(2007). Practical Rock Engineering. www.rocscience.com,Rocscience inc.
Hoek E. (1994). Strength of rock and rock masses. ISRM new journal, Vol-2, pp-4-16.
Hoek E. and Brown E. T (1997). Practical estimate of rock mass strength. International journal of
rock mechanics and mining science, Vol-No 8, pp. 1165-1186.
Lu. M. (2011). Introduction to Numerical Analysis for Rock Engineering. Lecture notes,
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Department of Geology and Mineral
Resources.
Nilsen B. and Palmstrom A. (2000). Engineering Geology and Rock Engineering, Hand Book No.
2, Norwegian Group of Rock Mechanics (NBG).
Nilsen B. and Thidemann A. (1993). Rock Engineering, Hydropower Development Series No. 9.
Department of Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and
Technology.
IPPC 2011. Special report on renewable energy sources and climate mitigation, final release.
SRREN Intergovernmental panel on climate change, working group III-mitigation of climate
change.
Panthi K.K. and Nilsen B(2007).Uncertainty analysis of tunnel squeezing for two cases from
Nepal Himalayas, International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Science. Vol.44. pp.67-76

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Rasouli M.(2009).Engineering geological studies of the diversion tunnel, focusing on stabilization

analysis and support design, Iran, Engineering Geology Journal.vol.108. pp 208-224.
Zulfu Gurocak, Pransoo Solanki,Musharraf M.Zaman (2007). Empirical and numerical analysis of
support requirement for a diversion tunnel at the Boztepe dam site, eastern Turkey, Engineering
Geology Journel, Science direct. Vol. 91, pp-194-208
Panthi, K. K. (2011). Assessment on stress induced instability in a tunnel project of the
Himalayas, Proceedings: 12th ISRM congress on Rock Mechanics. Beiging, China, pp. 1777-1782
Goel R. K. Jethwa J. L. Paithankar A. G (1995).Tunneling through the young Himalayas-A case
study of the Maneri-Uttarkashi power tunnel, International Journal Mining science and
Geomechanics,Engineering geology. Vol. 39(12), 1995, pp 3144
Rajinder Bhasin, Nick Barton Fredrik Loset (1993).Engineering geological investigation and the
application of the rock mass classification approach in the construction of Norways Underground
Olympic stadium, Engineering geology, Volume 35, Pp. 93101
Panthi K.K and Nilsen B.(2005). Significance of grouting for controlling leakage in water tunnel.
A case study from Nepal, Proceedings: World Tunnel Congress, Istanbul, Turkey, pp. 931-937.
RGoB 2008. Sustainable Hydropower development Policy 2008 , Department of hydropower and
power system , (RGoB) Bhutan.
Sharad Chandra Bjrn Nilsen and Ming Lu(2010).Predicting excavation method and rock support:
A case study from the Himalayan region of India,. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the
Environment Vol 69, pp. 257-266.
Shrestha K, and Panthi K.K (2010). The use of self supporting capacity of rock mass for
sustainable Hydropower : An analysis of the middle Marsyyangdi head race tunnel, Nepal. Hydro
Nepal, pp.18-26.
Panthi K. K.and Nilsen B. (2010).Uncertainty analysis for assessing leakage through water
tunnels: A case study from Nepal Himalayan, Rock mechanics and Rock Engineering,Vol, 43, pp.
629-639.
KC P.K and Panthi K. K. (July, 2011). Engineering geological design of underground works for
Upper Madi Hydroelectric Project, Hydro Nepal. Pp.27-37.
Panthi K. K. and Neilsen B.(2006).Numerical analysis of stresses and displacement of the Tafjord
Slide, Norway, Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, Vol. 65, pp. 31-37.
Phase2

8.0.

Reference

manual.

Rocscience

Inc.

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

http://www.rocscience.com
Page 111

Appendices

Appendix A
A1: Stress calculation sheet
Description
UCS of intact rock MPa
Hydrostatic Head (m)
Average Q
Average RMR
Average poisson
Average rock cover(m)
Rock density r (tons/M3)
E- modulus (Mpa)
GSI value
mi material constant
Disturbance factor D
mb
s
a
Vertical stress v (Mpa)
Horizontal stress h (Mpa)
K
Tangential stress roof r
Tangentia stress wall w
Rock mass strength
Bieniawski MPa
Hoek and Brown 2002 Mpa
Barton 2000 MPa
Panthi 2006
Average rock mass strength (Mpa)
E- modulus
Bieniawski 1978 Gpa
Barton 2002 Gpa
Hoek and Brown 1997 Gpa
Panthi 2006 Gpa
Deformation modulus value used
is from Panthis realtion
Support pressure from RMR
classification (KN/m2)
Deformation without support
pressure t in %
Deformation with support pressure
t %

Ch.0 to Adit I

Adit I to Adit II

Adit II to s/shaft

58.30
39.50
3.31
80.59
0.34
295.00
2.60
6613.35
45
30.00
0.50
2.19
0.0006
0.51
7.66
9.01
1.18
20.26
11.69

49.27
58.43
3.70
79.08
0.28
455.00
2.59
5511.60
45
30.00
0.50
2.19
0.0006
0.51
11.77
9.58
0.81
17.92
22.20

40.25
78.50
3.64
77.26
0.22
276.00
2.58
4409.85
45
30.00
0.50
2.19
0.0006
0.51
7.11
6.97
0.98
14.49
12.22

25.97
2.61
8.36
7.42
11.09

20.61
2.21
7.86
5.76
9.11

15.60
1.80
6.29
4.26
6.79

61.18
6.44
5.73
0.84

58.15
6.08
5.26
0.64

54.51
4.89
4.76
0.47

0.84

0.64

0.47

6.23

6.68

7.23

0.10

0.33

0.22

0.003

0.06

0.05

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

A2: Project features of revised prefeasibility study report 2003 ( WAPCoS, 2011)
Type of Development
Run-of-the-River
Catchment area:
7,007 km2
Mean Annual Yield

11.027 mill m3

Riverbed Elevation at dam site

788 m.a.s.l

HRWL
Live Storage HWL/LWL el. 830/el 813

830 m.a.s.l
5.176 mill m3

Dead Storage

2.813 mill m3

Below 813 m.a.s.l

Tailwater level
Gross head
Design Discharge ( 8 units of @54.6m3/s)
Net head
Total efficiency
Installed capacity 8 x 124 MW n= 375 rpm
Estimated utilization ( of mean annual yield)

563 m.a.s.l
267 m
437 m3/s
254 m
87.50%
992 MW
69.80%

Mean Annual Energy Production

4,667 GWh

Firm Flow (available 90%) 0.222 x mean flow

77.6 m3

Firm Power Continuous 24 h/day

Firm Peaking Power
4 h/day

165 MW
888 MW

Firm Peaking Energy

1297 GWh

Baseload outside peaking hours

Roads construction
Diversion Dam and quantity
Dam height above Riverbed
Maximum Height Above Foundation
Crest Length
Design Flood (Q1000)
Radial Crest Gate
Low Level Radial Gates
Sediment basin
Headrace Tunnel incl. sedimentation basin
Pressure shaft including horizontal part
Power House and Transformer Cavern

85 GWh
3 km
Concrete gravity, 225,000 m3
42.5 m
70 m
190 m
10128 m3/s
4 nos. B-12 m , H=19 m
4 nos .8.5x 10 m
6 nos. Fnet= 242.8 m2, L= 250 m
3 nos each 11,500 m & A= 88.02 m2
8 Nos each 365 m and diameter D= 3.5 m.
Underground, 130,000 m3

Access Tunnel
Tailrace Tunnel including manifolds
(submerged)
Construction cost IPL 2003, including
Transmission
Construction time

1 No. 250 m long ,c/s area A= 50 m2.

3 Nos. 350 m each with c/s area A= 88.02
m2.
875.1 mill USD
5 years

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

A3: Project features of the detailed study report (WAPCoS,2011)

1. LOCATION
District
Wangdue Phodrang
Dam site
Latitude 270 18.4411, Longitude 890 57
13.8
About 22.5 km D/S of Wangdi Bridge
Power House
Near Village Kamechhu
2. RESERVOIR
Catchment Area
6835 km2
Average Annual inflow
MWL/FRL
Gross Storage Capacity
Live Storage Capacity
Reservoir Area

10092 MCM
El. 843 m
7.0 MCM
4.64 MCM
0.3538 km2

MDDL
Storage Capacity at MDDL
Storage Area at MDDL

825 m
2.36 MCM
0.1746 km2

3. DIVERSION TUNNEL
Location
Length
Size
Design Discharge
Gate
Intermediate adit
4. U/S COFFER DAM
Type
Length (Top)
Height
5. D/S COFFER DAM
Type
Length (Top)
Height
6. DAM
Type
Top of Dam
River Bed Elevation
Length of Dam (top)
Max. Height of Dam
7. AUXILLARY SPILLWAY
Type

Left bank
828.25m
12.0 m dia. circular (finished dimension)
1118 cumecs
Vertical lift fixed wheel type gate; 2 Nos.; 5m
(L) x 12m (H).
Length 131m, 7.5m x 7.5m D-shaped
Colcrete Dam
170 m
17.5 m
Colcrete Dam
150 m
14.5 m
Concrete Gravity Dam
EL 846 m
EL 784 m
213.5 m
86 m (from deepest foundation level)
Chute with gates

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

Elevation of overflow Crest

Energy Dissipater
Type of Gate
Number of Gate

EL 839 m
Bucket Type
Vertical Lift.
One service gate

Size of Gate
8.SLUICE SPILLWAY
Design Flood
Type
Number
Size of Gate
Crest Level
Energy Dissipater
9. POWER INTAKE
Type
Number
Type
Discharge Capacity

Width 4 m x Height 4 m

Inner Diameter
Intake Center line level
Gates

6.4 m
EL 814.5 m
4 nos., 5.5 m x 6.4 m vertical lift fixed wheel
type gate.
One set 5.5 m x 6.4 m vertical lift fixed wheel
emergency gate.

10. DESILTING BASIN

Type
Number
Size
Alignment
Particle size to be removed
Construction Adit
Common length
Top branch
Bottom Branch
Silt Flushing Tunnel
Size
Length
Flushing Discharge
Gates
Gate Chamber
Adit to Gate Chamber
Gates for Desilting Chamber

11723 m3/s PMF + 4300 m3/s GLOF

Radial Gate
Seven
Width 8 m x Height 13.2 m
EL 797.0 m
Bucket Type
Horizontal (Circular)
Four
Straight Intake with bell mouth
138.00 m3/s per line x 4

Underground
Four
Width 19 m x height 24.70 m x length 420m
N 520 W S 800 E
0.2 mm and above (suspended sediment)
120.6 m, 7.5x7.5 m D shaped
385.5 m, 7.5x7.5 m D shaped
343.5 m, 7.5x7.5 m D shaped
5.1 m (W) x 5.5 m (H) D shaped
300 m
0.2
4 nos., 3.60 m X 2.5 m Vertical Lift Slide Gate
7.5 m x 7.5 m (D shaped), Length 452 m
4 nos., 5.0 m X 6.4 m Vertical Lift Gate

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

11 HEAD RACE TUNNEL

Number
Shape
Design Discharge
Inner Diameter
Length
Slope
Invert level of HRT at 0 RD or at start
Invert level at junction with Surge Shaft
Construction adits
1) Adit I
2) Adit II
3) Adit near Surge Shaft

Gate
12. SURGE SHAFT
Type
Number
Size
Orifice Size
Max Up/down surge
Top Elevation
Bottom Elevation
Height of Surge Shaft
Gates
13. PRESSURE SHAFT
Number
Inclination
Max. Diameter
Length of Pressure Shafts - I, II & III before
bifurcation
Penstock Diameter
Length of penstocks
Steel liner

One
Circular
466.00 m3/s
11.00 m
8584.40 m
1 in 220.11
El.803.5 m
El. 764.50 m
Length 856.35 m, 7.5 m x 7.5 m D Shaped;
Invert level of HRT at Adit junction 798.715m.
Length 556.70 m, 7.5 mx7.5 m D Shaped;
Invert level of HRT at Adit junction 781.965 m.
Common length with BVC 282.244m, 8 x 8 m
D-shaped; Balance length 248.8m, 7x7m D
shaped; Invert level of HRT at Adit junction
764.965m.
1 no. flap gate hinge type 2.5m x 2.5m at Adit
II junction.
Orifice Type (Open to sky)
One
31.0 m Diameter
2.8 m
EL 895 m
EL 900 m
EL 763 m
137.00 m
3 nos. each of size 5.50m x 4.35m
Three, each bifurcated to two branches, which
feeds to individual turbines
Vertical/Horizontal
5.5 m
997 m
3.86 m
400m
ASTM 537 CL II from starting point at EL
770m to EL 610 m; Thickness varies from 22

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

mm to 36 mm

Construction adit to Pressure Shaft top near

vertical Drop.
Construction adit to Pressure Shaft Bottom
near bifurcation.
14. BUTTERFLY VALVE CHAMBER
Size
Butterfly Valves
Adit to BVC

15. POWER HOUSE

Type
Size of Main cavern
Rock pillar between Powerhouse and
Transformer hall
Installed Capacity
Service Bay Level
Center line of Machine
Gates
16. ACCESS TUNNEL
MAT
Type
Size
Other Tunnels
Connecting Tunnel from Power House to
Transformer Hall
CAT to Transformer Hall cavern
CAT to Power house
Escape Tunnel from Power house to
Transformer Hall
17.CABLE TUNNEL
Type
Size
Number
Length
18.EHV CABLE

ASTM 517 Gr-F from EL 610m to EL 571.5 m,

Thickness varies from 28 mm to 32 mm
8 m x 8 m D shaped; Length 88.9m
8 m x 8.5 m D shaped; Length 423.3m

120m (L) x 12 m (W) x 21m (H)

3 Nos. 5.5m dia. each.
Common length with HRT Adit 282.244m,
Balance length to BVC-192.8m, 8x8m Dshaped
Underground
Length 236 m x Width 23 m x Height 51 m
40 m
6 x 170 MW (1020 MW)
EL 584 m
EL 571 m
6 nos., 5.0 m x 6.0 m vertical lift, fixed wheel
type

D-Shape
Width 8 m x Height 8.5 m, Length 863.9 m
D-Shape; Width 8m x Height 8m, Length 40 m
D-Shape; Width 7m x Height 7m, Length 94 m
D-Shape, Width 7 m x Height 7 m, Length
228.2 m
D-Shape, Width 4 m x Height 4.5 m, Length 40
m
D-shape Tunnel + Cut & Cover Section
Width 5 m x Height 7.0 m
One
Tunnel 241 m + 80 m cut & cover section

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

Type
Voltage
Single/Three phase
19. TRANSFORMER HALL
Type
Size
Bus Duct
20. TAIL RACE TUNNEL
Type
Number
Max. Discharge

XLPE
400 kV
Single

Size
Length
TRT Adit
Type
Size
Gate

11 m diameter
3000 m

21. DOWN STREAM SURGE CHAMBER

Number
Size
Bottom Elevation
Top Elevation
Access Tunnel to Draft Tube Gate Gallery
22. GIS
Type
Bus System
Nos. of bays
Voltage
23. POTHEAD YARD
Number of bays
Voltage
Number of transmission lines
Size of Pothead yard
24. MAIN TRANSFORMER
Type
Number
Rating, Voltage ratio
25. DESIGN PARAMETERELECTROMECHANICAL

Underground
14m (W) x 26.5 m (H) x 215.40 m (L)
3 Bus Ducts 11 m x 7.75 m (D Shaped)
D Shaped
One
460.00 m3/s design discharge

D Shape
7 m x 7 m D Shape, Length 473.80 m
2 nos, 6.5m x 11m each, vertical lift fixed wheel
type
One
Length 319m x width 18m x height 58.5m
565m
623.5m
D-Shape, 7m x7 m, Length 592 m
Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS)
Double bus
12 + 2 for future
400kV
4 + 2 for future
400 kV
1 no. 400 kV D/C Transmission line to
Alipurduar
200m x 40m
Single phase, ODWF
20 (including two spare)
70 MVA, 13.8/400/3 kV

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

Gross Head
Design Head
Design Discharge/unit

264 m
236 m
76.67 m3/s (with provision of 10% overloading)

Number of Unit
Installed Capacity
Tail Water level Max.
Tail Water level Min.
26. TURBINE
Type
Synchronous Speed
Design Head
27. GENERATOR
Type
Rated Output
Synchronous Speed
Frequency
Generator Voltage
28. ANNUAL ENERGY PRODUCTION
Annual Energy in 90% dependable year
Design Energy
29. PLANT LOAD FACTOR
Lean Period load factor
Av.Annual Load factor

Six
990 MW ( 6 x 165)
581 m
579 m
Vertical Shaft, Francis Turbine
250 rpm
236.00 m
Three Phase Alternating Current, Synchronous
165 MW
250 rpm
50 Hz
13.8 kV
4214.56 GWh
4105.26 GWh
15.43%
48.60%

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

90% dependable year

90% dependable year

Page - 119 -

Appendices

Appendix B Standard charts and table

B1: NGIs Q Rating Parameters (Grimstad & Barton ,1993)
RQD ( Rock Quality Designation)
RQD
3
A
Very poor rock ( > 27 joints per m )
0-25
3
B
Poor (20-27joints per m )
25-50
3
C
Fair (13-19 joints per m )
50-75
3
D
Good ( 8-12 joints per m )
75-90
3
E
Excellent (0- 7 joints per m )
90-100
Note: i) where RQD is reported or measures as 10 (including 0) the value 10 is used to
evaluate the Q- value.
ii) RQD interval of 5 i.e. 100, 95 90 are sufficiently accurate.
Table for Joint Set Number
2. Joint set number
A
Massive, no or few joints
B
One joint set
C
One joint set plus random joints
D
Two joint sets
E
Two joint set plus random joints
F
Three joint set
G
Three joint set plus random joints
H
Four or more joint sets, random heavily jointed sugar cube etc.
J
Crushed rock, earth like
Note: i) for intersection, use 3xJn, ii) For portals, use 2xJn.

Jn
0.5- 1.0
2
3
4
6
9
12
15
20

Table for Joint Roughness Number

3. Joint Roughness Number
Jr
Rock-wall contact, b) Rock wall contact before 10cm
A
Discontinuous joints
4
B
Rough or irregular , undulating
3
C
Smooth , undulating
2
D
Slickensided, undulating
1.5
E
Rough, irregular, planer
1.5
F
Smooth planer
1.0
G
Slickensided planer
0.5
Note: description refers to small scale features and intermediate scale features, in that order
c) No rock-wall contact when sheared
H
Zone containing clay minerals thick enough to prevent rock-wall contact
1
Sandy, gravelly or crushed zone thick enough to prevent rock-wall
1
J
contact.
Note: i) Add 1 if the mean spacing of the relevant joint set is greater than 3m. ii) Jr = 0.5 can be
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
used for planer slickensided joints having lineations, provided that the lineations are oriented in
the estimated sliding direction.

Table for Joint Alteration Number

4) Joint alteration number
a)Rock-wall contact ( No mineral filling , only coatings)
Tightly healed , hard, non-softening, impermeable
A
filling, i.e quartzite or epidote
B
Unaltered joint walls, surface staining only.
Slightly altered joint walls, non-softening mineral
C
coatings, sandy particles, clay-free disintegrated
rock, etc.
silty or clay mineral coating , small clay fraction (
D
non-softening )
Silty or clay coating, small mineral coating, i.e
Kalonite or Mica, also chlorite, talc, gypsum,
E
graphite, etc. and small quantities od swelling
clays.
b) Rock-wall contact before 10cm shear (thin mineral filling)
F

Sandy particles, clay-free disintegrated rocks, etc.

Strongly over consolidated, non-softening , clay
G
mineral filling (continuous but <5mm thickness)
Medium or low over consolidated , softening , clay
H
mineral filling ( continuous but <5mm thickness)
Swelling clay filling, i.e. monmorillonite (
J
continuous but <5mm thickness, values Ja depends
on percent of swelling clay sized particles)
c) No rock-wall contact when sheared (thick mineral filling)
K
L

M
N
O

Zones of bands of disintegrated or crushed rock.

Strongly over-consolidated
Zones or bands of clay, disintegrated or crushed
rocks. Medium or low over-consolidated or
softening fillings
Zones or bands of clay, disintegrated or crushed
rock. swelling clay. Ja depends on percent of
swelling clay-size particles.
Thick continuous zones or bands of clay, strongly
over-consolidated.
Thick continuous zones or bands of clay. Medium
to low over-consolidation.

r (approximate)

Ja
-.75

250-350
250-300

1
2

200-250

80-160

250-300
160-240

4
6

120-160

60-120

8-12

60-240

120-160

60-120

8-12

60-120

10

160-240

13

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

Thick continuous zones or bands of clay. Swelling

clay. Ja depends on percent of swelling clay-sixe
particles

120-160

13-20

Table for Water reduction Factor

5. Joint Water Reduction factor
Jw
Dry excavation or minor flow i.e < 5l/min. locally (humid or a few 1.0
A
dripping)
Medium inflow or pressure, occasional outwash of joints filling ( many 0.66
B
dripping)
C
Large inflow or high pressure in competent rock with unfilled joints
0.5
D
Large inflow or high pressure , considerable outwash of joint filling
0.33
Exceptionally high inflow or water pressure at blasting, decaying with 0.2-0.1
E
time.
Exceptionally high inflow or water pressure continuing without 0.1-0.05
F
noticeable decay.
Note: i) factor C to F are crude estimates. Increase Jw if drainage measures are installed. ii)
special problems caused by ice formation are not considered.
Table for Stress Reduction Factor
6) Stress reduction factor
SRF
Weakness zones intersection excavation, which may cause loosening of rock mass when tunnel
is excavated.
Multiple occurrence of weakness zones containing 10
A
clay or chemically disintegrated very loose
surrounding rock (any depth)
Single weakness zone containing clay or chemically 5.0
B
disintegrated rock (depth of excavation 50m ).
Single weakness zone containing clay or chemically 2.5
C
disintegrated rock ( depth of excavation > 50m)
Multiple shear zone in competent rock ( clay free) 7.5
D
loose surrounding rock ( any depth)
Single shear zone in competent rock (clay-free) 5.0
E
(depth of excavation 50m ).
Single shaer zone in competent rock (clay-free) 2.5
F
(depth of excavation > 50m )
Loose, open joints, heavily jointed or sugar cube , 5.0
G
etc. ( any depth )
Note : i) Reduce these values of the SRF by 25-30% if the relevant shear zones only
influence but do not intersect the excavation.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
b) competent rock, stress problem

SRF

H
J

Low stress near surface open joints

>200
<0.01
2.5
Medium stress favorable stress condition
200-10 0.01-0.3 1
Highly stressed very tight structure. usually 10-5
0.3-0.4
0.5-2
K
favorable to stability, may be unfavorable to wall
stability
L
Moderate slabbing after > hour in massive rock.
5-3
0.5-0.65 5-50
Slabbing and rock burst after a few minutes in 3-2
0.65-1.0 50-200
M
massive rock.
Heavy rock burst and immediate dynamic < 2
1.0
200-400
N
deformation in massive rock
Note : ii) for strongly anisotopic virgin stress fields ( if measures): when 5 1/3
, reduce
c to 0.75c .when 1/3 >10 , reduce c to 0.5c, where c = unconfined compressive strength
, 1 and 3 are major and minor principal stresses, and is maximum tangential stress (
estimated from elastic theory). iii) Few cases record available where depth of crown below
surface is less than span with. Suggest SRF increase from 2.5 to 5 for such cases.
C) Squeezing rock : plastic flow on incompetent rock under the /c
SRF
influence of high pressure.
O
Mild squeezing rock pressure
1-5
5-10

P
Heavy squeezing rock pressure
<5
10-20
1/3
Note: iv) cases of squeezing rock may occur for the depth H < 350Q ( Singh et al.199) , Rock
mass compression strength can be estimated from cm = 0.7Q1/3 (MPa) where = rock density
in KN/m3 ( Singh ,1993)
d) Swelling rock: Chemical swelling activity depending on the presence of water.
SRF
Mild swelling rock pressure
5-10
R
S
Heavy swelling rock pressure
10-15

B3: Excavation Support Ratio

Types of excavation
A
Temporary mine openings, etc
Vertical shaft : i) circular sections
B
ii) Rectangular /square sections
Permanent openings, water tunnel for hydropower exclude high pressure
C
penstocks), pilot tunnels, drifts and heading for large openings.
Storage rooms, water treatment plants, minor roads and railway tunnels,
D
surge chamber, access tunnels etc.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

ESR
Ca. 3.5
Ca 2.5
Ca 2.0
1.6
1.3
Page - 123 -

Appendices
E
F
G

Power station, major road and railway tunnels, civil defense chambers, 1.0
portals , intersections etc.
Underground nuclear power station , railway stations, sports and public 0.8
facilities, factories, etc.
Very important caverns and tunnels with long lifetime, tunnels for gas 0.5
pipe lines.

B3: RMR classification of rock mass rating ( Bieniawski, 1989)

A Classification parameters and their ratings
Parameter
Range of values// Rating
Point
load >10
strength index MPa

2-4
MPa

1-2
MPa

>250
MPa

100-250
MPa

50-100
MPa

25-50
MPa

12

75-90%

50-75% 25-50% <25%

Rating

15
90100%
20

17

Spacing of discontinuities

>2m

0.6-2m

13
200600mm

Rating

20

15

10

<1 m

1-3m

separation

none

<0.1mm

Rating

Strength of
intact rock. Uniaxial
compressive
strength
Rating
Drill core quality

3
Length,
persistence
Rating

Condition
of
discontinuit
ies

Roughness
Rating
Infilling
(gouge)
Rating

Ground

Rating
Inflow

Very
rough
6
None
6

Weathering

For this low range

uniaxial compressive
strength is preferred
<1
5-25
1-5
MP
MPa MPa
a
2
1
0

4-10
MPa

unwea
thered

6
per none

8
60200mm
8

3-10m

10-20m

>20m

2
0.11mm

0
>5mm

1-5mm

<60 mmm
5

Slightly
smooth slickensided
rough
5
3
1
0
hard filling
Soft filling
<5mm
>5mm <5mm
>5mm
4
2
2
0
Moder
Slightly
ately
Highly w Decomposed
w
w
5
3
1
0
<10
10-25 25-125
>125 lit/min
rough

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
water

10m tunnel
lit/min
length
Pw/1
0
0-0.1
Compl
General
etely
damp
condition
dry
Rating
15
10
Pw= joint water pressure, 1= major principal stress
B Rating adjustment for discontinuity orientation
Very
favourable
favourable
Tunnels
0
-2
Rating
Foundations 0
-2
slopes
0
-5

lit/min

0.1-0.2 0.2-0.5

>0.5

wet

dripping

Flowing

fair

unfavourable

-5
-7
-25

-10
-15
-50

C Rock mass classess determination from total rating

Rating
100-81
80-61
60-41
Class no.
I
II
III
Description
Very good
Good
Fair

D Meaning of rock mass classes

Class No
I
II
Average stand 10 years for 6 months for
up time
15m span
8m span
Cohesion of
>400 Kpa
300-400Kpa
the rock mass
Friction angle
of the rock <450
35-450
mass

lit/min

40-21
IV
Poor

Very
unfavourable
-12
-25
-60

<20
V
Very poor

III
IV
V
1 week for 5m 10 hours for 30
minutes
span
2.5m span
for 1m span
200-300 Kps

100-200 Kpa

<100 Kpa

25-350

15-250

<150

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices

Appendix C Maps and figures

C1: Geological map of Bhutan (Gucci,2000)

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
C2: Excavation section for HRT in different class of rocks

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
C3: Valley slope models and excavation support model at Ch 0.0m

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
C4 Valley slope model and excavation support model at Ch.4167m

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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Appendices
C5: Valley slope model and excavation support model at Ch.8584.28m

Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim

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