Abstract
Generally the NATM technique uses shotcrete, rock bolts, H-beam steel ribs, and concrete lining for the tunnel support in Korea. Among them, H-beam steel ribs are extremely heavy and difficult for workers to handle. Therefore, especially in Europe, lattice girders are being used instead of H-beam steel ribs for tunnel support. Lattice girders have basically the same function as H-beam steel ribs in tunnelling. The main advantages of using lattice girders compared to H-beam steel rib supports are as follows: 1) lattice girders have relatively a low weight enough to be easily lifted and installed by labors and 2) they create a more effective bond with the shotcrete. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and applicability of lattice girders compared to H-beam steel ribs used in construction tunnel sites and to show that lattice girders can be adequately applied in domestic tunnel construction sites as a new tunnel support system.
