Limitations of Rock Mass Classification Systems

This paper analyzes the efficacy of two rock mass classification systems, the Norwegian Q-system and the rock mass rating (RMR), for anticipating excavation design specifications. A specific case example of the parking cavern for Sydney, Australia’s Opera House is provided. The authors explain that, while both Q-values and RMR are good for general, initial collection of rock mass data, they are less useful for the final stages of planning. The geology for the cavern was horizontally bedded sandstone and shale. The authors provide Q-values and RMRs for the Opera cavern itself, Eastern Distributor tunnels, the Northside storage tunnel near Sydney Harbor, a gas storage cavern, and the M5 East tunnel. For those excavations through Hawkesbury Sandstone the authors found the Q-system was very efficacious for determining rock mass quality. However, they also determined that the system often does not recommend as much support as is needed for sandstones.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/0041414X
• Authors:
  • Pells, PJN
  • Bertuzzi, R
• Publication Date: 2007-4

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 33-34, 36-37
• Serial:
  • Tunnels & Tunnelling International
  • Publisher: Progressive Media Markets, Ltd
  • ISSN: 0041-414X

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Classification; Collapse; Failure analysis; Geotechnical engineering; Rock mechanics; Tunnel supports; Tunnels
• Geographic Terms: Australia
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Geotechnology; Highways; I43: Rock Mechanics;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01050304
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: May 8 2007 2:19PM