The design value of vertical earth pressure on hydraulic tunnels

The calculation model of vertical earth pressure on a tunnel has been argued for a long time, and it becomes more complex when the tunnel is filled with water because of the inner water pressure. This paper discusses several vertical earth pressures on tunnels and pipes, and analyzes the application conditions, respectively. It also provides the principle of assigning earth pressure values in the hydraulic tunnels' design. However, there are still many influencing factors of vertical earth pressure. The design of hydraulic tunnels should be both safe and economic, which still needs further analysis and research.