Abstract:Due to many advantages such as strong adaptability of geology and hydrology, the multiple tunnels have been built by the sinking method of prefabricated pipe segments in China. After the sinking pipe tunnel is built and put into use, the settlement deformation is inevitable and must be faced. The settlement data of a sinking pipe tunnel over more than 20 years since its operation is studied and analyzed, including the cumulative settlement characteristics, settlement trend over the years, and differential settlement between pipe segments. The research results show that the thickness of the tunnel cover soil has changed significantly. The considerable uneven settlement occurs in some pipe segments. And there is a large settlement difference between the pipe segments. These settlement deformations of the tunnel have caused a variety of diseases in the main structure of the tunnel. When the settlement deformation of the tunnel gradually slows down, the overall structure of the tunnel is in a stable state.