NATM method(New Austrian Tunnelling method)

It Uses the strength available of the surrounding rock mass to stabilize the tunnel itself.
Describes a popular method of modern tunnel design and construction

Broad Principles of NATM :

NATM broadly based on the following principles:

• Mobilization of the strength of rock mass - The method relies on the inherent strength of the rock
mass being conserved as the main component of tunnel support. Primary support is directed to enable
the rock to support itself.

• Shotcrete protection - Loosening and excessive rock mass deformation should be minimised by
applying a layer 25-50mm of sealing shotcrete immediately after opening of the face.

 Measurements - Every deformation of the excavation must be measured. NATM requires

installation of sophisticated measurement instrumentation. It is embedded in lining, ground such as
load cells,extensometers and relectors.

• Primary Lining - The primary lining is thin.It is active support and the tunnel is strengthened not by a
thicker concrete lining but by a flexible combination of rock bolts, wire mesh and Lattice girders.

• Closing of invert – Early as far as possible closing the invert so as to complete the arch action and
creating a load-bearing ring is important. It is crucial in soft ground tunnels

• Rock mass classification - The participation of expert geologist is very important as the primary support
as well as the further designing of supports etc during the excavation of rock requires the classification
of the rock mass.

• Dynamic Design – The deigning is dynamic during the tunnel construction. Every face opening
classification of rock is done and the support are selected accordingly. Also the design is further
reinforced based on the deformation as noiced during the monitoring

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCyz5xMp9Gq (NATM VIDEO)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qx_EjMlLgqY&list=PL8iVeDUQ2OFdUTJbono5qOYHZUGcLuXex(
tbm)