Mechanical Behavior and Research Prospects of Curved Pipe Jacking

Abstract

With the increasing emphasis on the sustainable development of underground space, the importance of trenchless pipe roofing jacking technology has become more prominent. In practical engineering, pipe jacking often needs to advance along a curved path due to geological conditions, environmental interferences, and other factors. Compared with the relatively mature technology of straight pipe jacking, curved pipe jacking demonstrates greater adaptability but also poses more severe challenges in terms of jacking force estimation, trajectory control, soil disturbance prediction, and the performance of pipe segments and joints. This paper systematically analyzes the differences between straight and curved pipe jacking, pointing out that the estimation of the jacking force for curved pipe jacking is a dynamic process influenced by multiple factors, which existing theoretical models struggle to accurately describe. The disturbance effect of curved jacking construction on the surrounding soil is more significant, with the research foundation for horizontal curved pipe jacking being particularly weak. Meanwhile, the mechanical performance of joints, such as flexural stiffness, is crucial for ensuring the success of curved jacking. Therefore, this paper proposes that future research should focus on three core directions: first, developing segmented or distributed theoretical models based on numerical simulations that can reflect the dynamic variation of jacking force; second, establishing accurate prediction models for soil disturbance and settlement specifically for curved pipe jacking, particularly for horizontal curves; third, developing joint design methods that balance mechanical performance, sealing, durability, and economic efficiency, while comparatively studying the mechanical behavior of joints in curved and straight pipe jacking. Relevant research holds significant theoretical and practical importance for enhancing the technical level of curved pipe jacking and ensuring engineering safety.