Immersed tube water stop joint structure suitable for deepwater condition and construction method

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of civil engineering, in particular to an immersed tube water stop connector structure suitable for deepwater conditions and a construction method.The immersed tube water stop connector structure comprises a temporary water stop assembly, a permanent water stop assembly and a concrete structural body; the permanent water stop assembly is annularly arranged in the inner circumferential area of the butt joint ends, the concrete structural body is poured between the butt joint ends, and the concrete structural body wraps the permanent water stop assembly to form a rigid connector which is used for connecting the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section. Through the design concept of subarea fortification and permanent and temporary combination, the water stopping task is decomposed and borne by different assemblies at different stages, and the reliability and safety of the connector for bearing high water pressure under the 100-meter deep water condition are remarkably improved; the finally formed rigid joint effectively overcomes the problem that the opening and closing amount of a traditional flexible joint is too large under the action of external force such as differential settlement and temperature change, and the integrity and stability of the joint are greatly enhanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of civil engineering technology, and in particular to a submerged pipe waterstop joint structure and construction method suitable for deep water conditions. Background Technology

[0002] Immersed tunnels are an important form of transportation engineering spanning rivers, straits, and other waterways. The watertightness of their joint structures directly affects the safety and durability of the tunnel. Currently, immersed tunnel joints mostly employ a flexible permanent water-stopping system composed of "GINA waterstop + OMEGA waterstop." This system performs well under normal water depth conditions, but it has the following technical defects under high water pressure conditions at depths of 100 meters: First, existing flexible waterstop systems are unable to effectively resist high water pressure at depths exceeding 60 meters, making them prone to watertight failure and limiting their water pressure resistance. Second, as a permanent waterstop measure, GINA waterstops are susceptible to stress relaxation, aging, and deformation under long-term high water pressure and complex loads, affecting their service life. Moreover, under external forces such as differential settlement, temperature changes, and earthquakes, flexible joints undergo significant tension and deformation, further weakening the reliability of the waterstop. Once the waterstop system fails, repairs in deep-water environments are difficult and costly.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new type of immersed tube joint structure and construction method that can adapt to deep water conditions, has high water pressure bearing capacity, good durability, and reliable water sealing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a submerged pipe water-stop joint structure and construction method suitable for deep water conditions, which solves the defect that the flexible permanent water-stop system composed of GINA water-stop and OMEGA water-stop is not suitable for deep water high water pressure environment in the prior art, and improves the reliability and durability of the joint water-stop, so as to improve the water pressure that the submerged pipe joint can withstand.

[0005] This invention provides a submerged pipe water-stop joint structure suitable for deep-water conditions, which is disposed between the docking ends of a first submerged pipe segment and a second submerged pipe segment to be connected. It includes a temporary water-stop component, a permanent water-stop component, and a concrete structure. The temporary water-stop component is arranged circumferentially in the outer peripheral area of ​​the docking end, and the permanent water-stop component is arranged circumferentially in the inner peripheral area of ​​the docking end. The concrete structure is cast between the docking ends of the first submerged pipe segment and the second submerged pipe segment, and the concrete structure covers the permanent water-stop component to form a rigid joint for connecting the first submerged pipe segment and the second submerged pipe segment.

[0006] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe water-stop joint structure suitable for deep-water conditions is provided, wherein the temporary water-stop component is a flexible water-stop structure, used to provide temporary water-stopping during the docking construction stage of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section; and the permanent water-stop component is a rigid water-stop structure, used to provide permanent water-stopping during the operation stage of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section.

[0007] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe waterstop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided, wherein the temporary waterstop assembly includes a GINA waterstop strip, which is circumferentially sandwiched between the end steel shells of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section.

[0008] A fastening mechanism is provided on the end steel shell of the first immersed tube section, and the bottom end of the GINA waterstop is fixed to the fastening mechanism. The end steel shell of the second immersed tube section abuts against the top end of the GINA waterstop and forms a contact pressure, so that the GINA waterstop forms a temporary water stop between the end steel shells of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

[0009] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe waterstop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided. The temporary waterstop assembly further includes an inner steel plate, which is arranged in a circumferential direction and located on the side of the GINA waterstop belt facing the axis of the submerged pipe section. The first end of the inner steel plate is pressed to the end steel shell of the first submerged pipe section by a first bolt assembly, and the second end of the inner steel plate is pressed to the end steel shell of the second submerged pipe section by a first bolt assembly.

[0010] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe waterstop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided. The first bolt assembly includes a first bolt and a first nut. The first bolt passes through the end steel shell and a pressure plate is also sleeved on the first bolt. The end of the inner steel plate is located between the end steel shell and the pressure plate. The first nut is movably sleeved on the tail of the first bolt and is adapted to press the end of the inner steel plate onto the end steel shell by tightening the first nut at the tail of the first bolt.

[0011] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe waterstop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided, wherein a sealing gasket is further provided between the end of the inner steel plate and the pressure plate.

[0012] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe water-stop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided. The permanent water-stop component includes two pre-embedded steel plates and a butt joint steel plate. The first ends of the two pre-embedded steel plates are respectively pre-embedded in the end faces of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section. The two ends of the butt joint steel plate are respectively connected to the second ends of the two pre-embedded steel plates through connecting flanges.

[0013] According to the present invention, a submerged pipe water-stop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions is provided, wherein at least two sets of permanent water-stop components are provided between the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section, and are arranged in parallel along the radial direction of the submerged pipe section.

[0014] This invention also provides a construction method for a submerged pipe waterstop joint, applicable to the submerged pipe waterstop joint structure described in any of the above-mentioned embodiments, wherein the construction method for the submerged pipe waterstop joint includes: GINA waterstops are installed circumferentially on the end face of the first submerged tube section, and embedded steel plates are installed on the end faces of the first and second submerged tube sections respectively.

[0015] The first and second submerged pipe sections are submerged and connected, and a temporary water-stopping component is formed between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections through hydraulic pressure connection, so as to achieve temporary water stoppage between the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0016] The pre-embedded steel plates on the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections are connected by connecting steel plates to form a permanent water-stop assembly between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0017] Through the reserved concrete pouring hole, self-leveling concrete is poured between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections to form a concrete structure covering the permanent water-stop component. The permanent water-stop component and the concrete structure form a rigid joint connecting the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0018] According to a construction method for a submerged pipe waterstop joint provided by the present invention, the step of forming a temporary waterstop assembly between the end faces of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section includes: Hydraulic pressure is applied to the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections, causing the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections to press against the GINA waterstop, forming a temporary waterstop.

[0019] An inner steel plate is installed between the end faces of the first and second immersed tube sections, and the two ends of the inner steel plate are respectively pressed to the end steel shells of the end faces of the first and second immersed tube sections through a first bolt assembly.

[0020] The immersed tube water-stop joint structure provided by this invention, suitable for deep-water conditions, utilizes a design concept combining zoned protection and permanent / temporary protection. This decomposes the water-stopping task and assigns it to different components at different stages, significantly improving the reliability and safety of the joint under high water pressure at depths of up to 100 meters. The resulting rigid joint effectively overcomes the problem of excessive tension in traditional flexible joints under external forces such as differential settlement and temperature changes, greatly enhancing the joint's integrity and stability. This immersed tube water-stop joint structure solves the problem of existing technologies being unable to adapt to harsh deep-water conditions, providing a reliable and durable new joint solution for major deep-water projects such as the Strait Tunnel. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in this invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the submerged pipe waterstop joint structure suitable for deep water conditions provided by the present invention.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the construction method of the submerged pipe waterstop joint provided by the present invention, using the GINA waterstop belt.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the construction method of the submerged pipe waterstop joint provided by the present invention, showing the construction of the inner steel plate.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the construction of the permanent water-stop component in the construction method of the submerged pipe water-stop joint provided by the present invention.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the concrete structure construction method for the submerged pipe waterstop joint provided by the present invention.

[0027] Reference numerals: 1. Temporary waterstop assembly; 11. GINA waterstop strip; 12. Inner steel plate; 13. First bolt assembly; 131. First bolt; 132. First nut; 133. Pressure plate; 134. Sealing gasket; 2. Permanent waterstop assembly; 21. Embedded steel plate; 22. Butt joint steel plate; 23. Connecting flange; 3. Concrete structure; 4. End steel shell. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0029] The following is combined Figures 1 to 5 This invention describes the structure and construction method of a submerged pipe waterstop joint suitable for deep water conditions.

[0030] One embodiment of the present invention provides a submerged pipe sealing joint structure suitable for deep-water conditions, which is disposed between the joint ends of the first and second submerged pipe sections to be connected. See [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 As shown, the submerged pipe water-stop joint structure includes a temporary water-stop component 1, a permanent water-stop component 2, and a concrete structure 3. The temporary water-stop component 1 is arranged circumferentially on the outer periphery of the docking end, and the permanent water-stop component 2 is arranged circumferentially on the inner periphery of the docking end. The concrete structure 3 is poured between the docking ends of the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section. The concrete structure 3 covers the permanent water-stop component 2 to form a rigid joint for connecting the first submerged pipe section and the second submerged pipe section.

[0031] It is understood that the immersed tube water-stop joint structure in this embodiment constructs a multi-protection system combining temporary and permanent water-stop through a partitioned design. Specifically, the immersed tube water-stop joint structure mainly includes a temporary water-stop component 1 arranged circumferentially on the outer periphery of the docking end, a permanent water-stop component 2 arranged circumferentially on the inner periphery of the docking end, and a concrete structure 3 cast between the two ends to form an integral connection. The temporary water-stop component 1, the permanent water-stop component 2, and the concrete structure 3 are arranged sequentially from the outside to the inside in space, together forming a "temporary + permanent" water-stop and force transmission system.

[0032] During the construction phase of the immersed tunnel segment placement and connection, the temporary water-stop component 1 located on the outer periphery first plays its role in resisting external water pressure and providing a dry and safe environment for internal operations. After the segment settles and stabilizes, the permanent water-stop component 2 located on the inner periphery is activated, undertaking the important task of permanent water-stopping during the long-term operation of the tunnel. Finally, the concrete structure 3 formed by pouring concrete covers the permanent water-stop component 2 to form a rigid joint, which not only firmly connects the two immersed tunnel segments into a whole and greatly improves the longitudinal stiffness of the joint, but also provides solid structural support and protection for the core water-stopping system.

[0033] It is important to understand that this immersed tube water-stop joint structure, through its design concept of zoned protection and a combination of permanent and temporary measures, decomposes the water-stopping task and assigns it to different components at different stages. This significantly improves the reliability and safety of the joint under high water pressure at depths of up to 100 meters. The resulting rigid joint effectively overcomes the problem of excessive tension in traditional flexible joints under external forces such as differential settlement and temperature changes, greatly enhancing the overall integrity and stability of the joint. Therefore, this immersed tube water-stop joint structure solves the problem of existing technologies being unable to adapt to harsh deep-water conditions, providing a new joint solution with reliable water-stopping capabilities and high durability for major deep-water projects such as the Strait Tunnel.

[0034] In some embodiments of the immersed tube water-stop joint structure applicable to deep water conditions of the present invention, the temporary water-stop component 1 is a flexible water-stop structure used to provide temporary water-stopping during the docking construction phase of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; the permanent water-stop component 2 is a rigid water-stop structure used to provide permanent water-stopping during the operation phase of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

[0035] Understandably, in this embodiment, the temporary water-stopping component is constructed as a flexible water-stopping structure, which can be made of low-hardness, small-sized rubber material, sufficient for temporary water-stopping during construction. The temporary water-stopping component mainly includes a GINA waterstop 11 (see the embodiment below) circumferentially disposed on the outer periphery of the immersed tube joint end face. During the placement of the immersed tube segment, the GINA waterstop 11 is compressed by the classic hydraulic pressure bonding technique, utilizing the elastic deformation of its rubber material to initially seal the joint. This flexible structure ensures that even with minor uneven settlement or displacement between pipe sections during the construction phase, effective temporary watertightness can still be maintained, creating dry and safe working conditions for subsequent internal operations.

[0036] Based on the establishment of temporary water stop, the permanent water stop component 2 is constructed as a rigid water stop structure, which mainly consists of a pre-embedded steel plate 21, a connecting steel plate 22, and a connecting flange 23 pre-embedded in the end face of the immersed tube (see the embodiment below). The implementation process of the permanent water stop component 2 occurs after the immersed tube is docked and stabilized: inside the tunnel, the operators use high-strength bolts to firmly connect the pre-embedded steel plates 21 on both sides of the immersed tube with the connecting steel plate 22 in the center through the flange to form a whole, forming one or more continuous metal sealing rings. This rigid sealing system can withstand stable water pressure of up to 1~2MPa during the operation period for a long time. Its metal material fundamentally avoids the stress relaxation and aging problems of rubber waterstops, thus providing an extremely reliable and maintenance-free permanent water stop guarantee for the tunnel throughout its entire operation life.

[0037] Specifically, in some embodiments of the immersed tube waterstop joint structure of the present invention applicable to deep-water conditions, see again... Figure 1As shown, the temporary water-stopping assembly 1 includes a GINA waterstop 11, which is circumferentially sandwiched between the end steel shells 4 of the first and second submerged pipe sections. A fastening mechanism is provided on the end steel shell 4 of the first submerged pipe section, and the bottom end of the GINA waterstop 11 is fixed to the fastening mechanism. The end steel shell 4 of the second submerged pipe section abuts against the top end of the GINA waterstop 11 and forms a contact pressure, so that the GINA waterstop 11 forms a temporary water stop between the end steel shells 4 of the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0038] Understandably, the core of the temporary waterstop assembly 1 is the GINA waterstop 11, which is circumferentially clamped between the end steel shells 4 of the first and second immersed tube sections. The end steel shell of the first immersed tube section has a pre-installed dedicated fastening mechanism (such as pressure plates and bolts) to reliably fix the bottom end of the GINA waterstop 11, providing a stable installation base. The end steel shell 4 of the second immersed tube section, which it connects to, acts as an active compression surface, directly abutting against and compressing the top end of the GINA waterstop 11 during the tube connection process.

[0039] As the two immersed tube sections gradually approach each other in deep water, the huge water pressure difference drives the second immersed tube section to move towards the first immersed tube section by draining the water from the cavity between the two tube sections. The steel shell 4 at its end squeezes the GINA waterstop 11. After being compressed, the GINA waterstop 11 undergoes elastic deformation, and the compressive stress inside it continues to increase, thereby tightly filling and sealing all the gaps between the two steel shells 4, forming a continuous and reliable temporary waterproof barrier on the outer periphery of the docking end face in a mechanical manner.

[0040] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the temporary water-stopping assembly 1 further includes an inner steel plate 12, which is arranged in a circumferential manner and located on the side of the GINA waterstop 11 facing the axis of the immersed tube section. The first end of the inner steel plate 12 is pressed to the end steel shell 4 of the first immersed tube section through a first bolt assembly 13, and the second end of the inner steel plate 12 is pressed to the end steel shell 4 of the second immersed tube section through the first bolt assembly 13.

[0041] Understandably, this embodiment adds an inner steel plate 12 to the initial sealing of the GINA waterstop 11. Specifically, the inner steel plate 12 is an annular steel plate arranged on the inner side of the GINA waterstop 11 (i.e., the side facing the tunnel centerline). The two ends of the inner steel plate 12 are respectively pressed to the end steel shells 4 of the two immersed tube sections by a first bolt assembly 13. This first bolt assembly 13 typically includes a high-strength bolt passing through the end steel shell, a nut, and a pressure plate for distributing pressure. By tightening the nut, a huge mechanical preload is generated, firmly pressing the end of the inner steel plate 12 onto the end steel shell.

[0042] Specifically, after the GINA waterstop 11 is initially compressed by water pressure and forms the first seal, the construction workers install the inner steel plate 12 in the dry environment inside the tunnel. By using tools such as torque wrenches to tighten all bolts symmetrically and sequentially, the inner steel plate 12 is firmly fixed, forming a water-stop barrier composed of "GINA waterstop 11 + inner steel plate 12" at the tunnel joint surface. This can serve as a temporary water-stop system for construction and also provide permanent water-stopping for operation.

[0043] In some specific examples, the first bolt assembly 13 includes a first bolt 131 and a first nut 132. The first bolt 131 passes through the end steel shell 4 and a pressure plate 133 is also sleeved on the first bolt 131. The end of the inner steel plate 12 is located between the end steel shell 4 and the pressure plate 133. The first nut 132 is movably sleeved on the tail of the first bolt 131, which is suitable for pressing the end of the inner steel plate 12 onto the end steel shell 4 by tightening the first nut 132 at the tail of the first bolt 131.

[0044] It is understood that the first bolt assembly 13 for pressing the inner steel plate 12 in this example is a high-efficiency transmission mechanism composed of multiple components, the core components of which include a first bolt 131, a first nut 132, and a pressure plate 133. Specifically, the first bolt 131 is pre-inserted into a reserved hole in the end steel shell 4 of the immersed tube; the pressure plate 133 is fitted onto the first bolt 131, and its working surface is aligned with the end of the inner steel plate 12; the end of the inner steel plate 12 is precisely positioned in the area between the end steel shell 4 and the pressure plate 133. By tightening the first nut 132 exposed at the tail of the first bolt 131, the pressure plate 133 is driven to move along the bolt axial direction, thereby tightly clamping and pressing the end of the inner steel plate 12 onto the surface of the end steel shell 4.

[0045] Furthermore, a sealing gasket 134 is provided between the end of the inner steel plate 12 and the pressure plate 133. It is understood that the sealing gasket 134 is typically made of a sealing material with greater deformability than metal (such as rubber, engineering plastics, or soft metal), and is placed between the pressure surface of the pressure plate 133 and the surface of the inner steel plate 12. When the first nut 132 is tightened and the pressure plate 133 moves forward, its pressure is not directly applied to the inner steel plate 12, but is first transmitted through the sealing gasket 134. Under the strong bolt preload, the sealing gasket 134 undergoes controllable elastic or plastic deformation, thereby tightly filling all possible microscopic unevenness and gaps between the pressure plate 133 and the surface of the inner steel plate 12.

[0046] The sealing performance of the connection is greatly enhanced by the installation of the sealing gasket 134. The deformable sealing gasket 134 effectively blocks possible water seepage paths along the bolted connection, upgrading the entire crimping point from an incompletely sealed mechanical connection to a reliable sealing node. Moreover, the sealing gasket 134 has a dual compensation function: on the one hand, it compensates for the microscopic unevenness caused by processing or installation on the contact surfaces of the pressure plate 133, the inner steel plate 12, and the end steel shell 4, ensuring a uniform distribution of the clamping force and avoiding local stress concentration; on the other hand, the flexible sealing gasket 134 can also compensate for minor deformations or loosening that may occur in the structure during long-term use, maintaining the long-term stability of the sealing pressure.

[0047] In some embodiments of the immersed tube waterstop joint structure of the present invention applicable to deep water conditions, see further details. Figure 1 As shown, the permanent water-stopping component 2 includes two embedded steel plates 21 and a butt steel plate 22. The first ends of the two embedded steel plates 21 are respectively embedded in the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections. The two ends of the butt steel plate 22 are respectively connected to the second ends of the two embedded steel plates 21 through connecting flanges 23.

[0048] It is understood that the permanent water-stopping component 2 in this embodiment is constructed as a rigid sealing system, the core structure of which consists of a pre-embedded steel plate 21, a butt joint steel plate 22, and a connecting flange 23. Specifically, one end of the two pre-embedded steel plates 21 is pre-cast and firmly embedded into the concrete ends of the first and second immersed tube sections, making it an inseparable part of the tube section body; the other end of the two pre-embedded steel plates 21 is exposed on the butt joint end face, serving as the basis for permanent connection. After the immersed tubes are laid and connected and temporary water-stopping is completed, in the dry environment inside the tunnel, the operator places the central butt joint steel plate 22 between the two pre-embedded steel plates 21, and then uses high-strength bolts to pass through both ends of the butt joint steel plate 22 and the connecting flange 23 on the pre-embedded steel plate 21, and tightens them to a predetermined torque, rigidly connecting the two originally separate immersed tube sections into a continuous whole through the pre-embedded steel plate 21, the connecting flange 23, and the butt joint steel plate 22.

[0049] The permanent water-stop component 2, consisting of embedded steel plate 21, butt-joint steel plate 22, and connecting flange 23, forms a robust and stable metal-to-metal sealing ring. Its structural strength and reliability far exceed those of flexible rubber strips, enabling it to withstand extremely high hydrostatic pressures exceeding 1.0 MPa during operation. This fundamentally solves the problem of flexible waterstops' susceptibility to failure under deep-water pressure. The permanent water-stop component 2 structure in this embodiment eliminates reliance on the long-term durability of rubber materials. The rigid interface of the flange connection is free from stress relaxation and aging issues, achieving near-maintenance-free permanent water-stopping. This significantly improves the safety and reliability of the immersed tunnel throughout its design life, providing ultimate water-stopping protection for 100-meter deep-water tunnels.

[0050] Furthermore, at least two sets of permanent water-stopping components 2 are provided between the first and second immersed tube sections, and are arranged parallel to each other along the radial direction of the immersed tube section. It is understood that the reliability of the permanent water-stopping components in this embodiment is significantly enhanced through redundant design. By arranging multiple permanent water-stopping components 2 in parallel, multiple parallel sealing rings are formed on the cross-section of the joint, arranged sequentially from front to back, together constituting a multi-layered, in-depth defense system. This embodiment, through the setting of multiple sets of permanent water-stopping components 2, constructs physically independent multiple sealing defense lines. Even in extreme cases where the sealing performance of one set of components decreases due to manufacturing defects or accidental damage, its adjacent components can still independently and completely assume the entire water-stopping responsibility, thereby raising the system's safety margin to a level that a single water-stopping component cannot achieve.

[0051] Moreover, this parallel arrangement in this embodiment can greatly enhance the joint's adaptability to uneven deformation and potential damage. During tunnel operation, if the joint experiences slight warping or tension deformation due to foundation settlement or external forces, the multiple parallel rigid water-stop components can work together to resist the deformation, ensuring that at least one or more sealing interfaces maintain effective contact under any working condition, thereby improving the reliability of permanent water-stopping.

[0052] In another aspect, the present invention provides a construction method for a submerged pipe waterstop joint, applicable to the submerged pipe waterstop joint structure in any of the above embodiments or examples, combined with Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the construction method of the submerged pipe waterstop joint includes the following steps S1 to S4.

[0053] S1. Install GINA waterstop 11 circumferentially on the end face of the first submerged pipe section, and set pre-embedded steel plates 21 on the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections respectively.

[0054] S2. The first and second submerged pipe sections are submerged and connected. Through hydraulic pressure connection, a temporary water-stopping component 1 is formed between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections to achieve temporary water stoppage between the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0055] S3. The pre-embedded steel plates 21 on the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections are connected by the butt steel plates 22 respectively, so as to form a permanent water-stopping component 2 between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0056] S4. Through the reserved concrete pouring hole, self-leveling concrete is poured between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections to form a concrete structure 3 covering the permanent water-stop component 2. The permanent water-stop component 2 and the concrete structure 3 form a rigid joint to connect the first and second submerged pipe sections.

[0057] It is understood that the construction method of this submerged pipe waterstop joint in this embodiment is described in [reference needed]. Figure 2 As shown, firstly, a GINA waterstop 11, serving as a temporary waterstop core, is installed circumferentially on the end face of the first immersed tube section. Simultaneously, embedded steel plates 21 for permanent connection are pre-embedded in the inner circumferential areas of the end faces of both immersed tube sections. Then, see... Figure 3 As shown, using the classic hydraulic pressing process, the two immersed tube sections are driven together by the enormous external water pressure, forcefully compressing the GINA waterstop 11, causing it to elastically deform and thus sealing the joint, forming the first waterproof barrier and creating a dry environment inside. Then, an inner steel plate 12 is added. Both ends of the inner steel plate 12 are pressed against the end steel shells 4 of the two immersed tube sections via the first bolt assembly 13, firmly pressing the ends of the inner steel plate 12 onto the end steel shells. Following this, operations are carried out inside the tunnel, see [link to details]. Figure 4 As shown, the embedded steel plates 22 and high-strength bolts are used to connect the flanges 23, rigidly connecting the pre-embedded steel plates 21 on both sides into a whole, forming a metal sealing ring capable of independently withstanding the ultra-high water pressure during operation. Finally, see Figure 5 As shown, self-leveling concrete is poured into the cavity enclosed by the permanent water-stop component 2 and the immersed tube body through the reserved pouring hole. After the concrete hardens, the concrete structure 3 formed covers the permanent water-stop component 2 to form a rigid joint. This not only firmly connects the two immersed tube sections into a whole, making its longitudinal stiffness consistent with the tube body and effectively resisting differential settlement, but also provides solid structural protection for the internal permanent rigid water-stop component.

[0058] The construction method of this immersed tube water-stop joint in this embodiment, through the progressive process of "temporary water-stop → permanent sealing → rigid connection", successfully transforms the temporary flexible water-stop into a permanent rigid water-stop and structural connection, fundamentally ensuring the long-term safety and durability of the immersed tube joint in deep water and high-pressure environment.

[0059] The specific process of forming a temporary water-stop assembly 1 between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections in step S2 includes: hydraulically pressing the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections together to compress the GINA water-stop strip 11, thus forming a temporary water stop. An inner steel plate 12 is installed between the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections, and both ends of the inner steel plate 12 are respectively pressed into the end steel shells 4 of the end faces of the first and second submerged pipe sections using a first bolt assembly.

[0060] It is understandable that the specific process of constructing the temporary water-stop component in step S2 of this embodiment establishes a reliable waterproof barrier during construction through two progressive operational stages. First, by controlling the ballast water at the tail end of the immersed tube segment, the ambient water pressure is used as a driving force to drive the second immersed tube segment to move smoothly towards the fixed first immersed tube segment, so that its end steel shell 4 precisely squeezes the installed GINA waterstop 11. The GINA waterstop 11 produces the expected compression deformation under axial pressure, and its unique mushroom-shaped cross-section structure ensures a tight initial seal with the steel contact surfaces on both sides, thereby quickly establishing the first temporary water-stop defense line. Then, based on the initial hydraulic seal, the construction immediately enters the internal mechanical reinforcement stage. Under dry conditions inside the tunnel, the construction personnel install the inner steel plate 12 circumferentially along the joint, so that it is tightly attached to the inner side of the GINA waterstop 11. Subsequently, the first bolt assembly 13 (usually including high-strength bolts, nuts, and pressure plates) is used to firmly mechanically press the two ends of the inner steel plate to the end steel shells of the immersed tubes on both sides. Not only does the bolt pre-tightening force provide continuous and stable additional compression to the GINA waterstop 11, consolidating its sealing effect, but the pressing of the inner steel plate 12 with the end steel shell 4 also forms an auxiliary metal sealing surface, upgrading the single flexible waterstop to a composite temporary waterstop system of "GINA waterstop flexible sealing + inner steel plate mechanical pressing", which greatly enhances its reliability and safety margin in dealing with water pressure fluctuations and foundation micro-settlement during the construction period.

[0061] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A structure of a pipe stop joint for a pipe immersed in deep water, which is provided between butting ends of a first pipe section and a second pipe section to be butted, characterized in that, The utility model relates to a rigid joint structure of a first immersed tube section and a second immersed tube section, comprising: a temporary water stop assembly (1) arranged circumferentially at the outer peripheral region of the butt joint end of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; a permanent water stop assembly (2) arranged circumferentially at the inner peripheral region of the butt joint end of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; a concrete structure (3) poured between the butt joint end of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section, the concrete structure (3) covering the permanent water stop assembly (2) to form a rigid joint for connecting the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

2. The immersed tube seal joint structure suitable for deep water conditions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temporary water stop assembly (1) is a flexible water stop structure for providing temporary water stop during the butt joint construction stage of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; the permanent water stop assembly (2) is a rigid water stop structure for providing permanent water stop during the operation stage of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

3. A structure for a pipe penstock joint for deep water conditions according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The temporary water stop assembly (1) comprises a GINA water stop belt (11) arranged circumferentially between the end steel shell (4) of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section. The end steel shell (4) of the first immersed tube section is provided with a fastening mechanism, the bottom end of the GINA water stop belt (11) is fixed to the fastening mechanism, and the end steel shell (4) of the second immersed tube section abuts against the top end of the GINA water stop belt (11) and forms a touch pressure, so that the GINA water stop belt (11) forms a temporary water stop between the end steel shells (4) of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

4. The immersed tube seal joint structure suitable for deep water conditions according to claim 3, characterized in that, The temporary water stop assembly (1) further comprises an inner steel plate (12) arranged circumferentially and located on the side of the GINA water stop belt (11) facing the shaft center of the immersed tube section, the first end of the inner steel plate (12) is press-connected to the end steel shell (4) of the first immersed tube section through a first bolt assembly (13), and the second end of the inner steel plate (12) is press-connected to the end steel shell (4) of the second immersed tube section through a first bolt assembly (13).

5. The immersed tube seal joint structure suitable for deep water conditions according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first bolt assembly (13) comprises a first bolt (131) and a first nut (132), the first bolt (131) is arranged in the end steel shell (4), a pressing plate (133) is further sleeved on the first bolt (131), the end of the inner steel plate (12) is located between the end steel shell (4) and the pressing plate (133), and the first nut (132) is movably sleeved on the tail of the first bolt (131) and is adapted to press-connect the end of the inner steel plate (12) to the end steel shell (4) by tightening the first nut (132) at the tail of the first bolt (131).

6. The immersed tube seal joint structure suitable for deep water conditions according to claim 5, characterized in that, A sealing gasket (134) is further arranged between the end of the inner steel plate (12) and the pressing plate (133).

7. A structure for a pipe penstock joint for deep water conditions according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The permanent water stop assembly (2) comprises: two embedded steel plates (21), the first ends of the two embedded steel plates (21) are respectively embedded in the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; a butt joint steel plate (22), the two ends of the butt joint steel plate (22) are respectively connected to the second ends of the two embedded steel plates (21) through connecting flanges (23).

8. The immersed tube seal joint structure suitable for deep water conditions according to claim 7, characterized in that, The permanent water stop assembly (2) between the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section is provided with at least two groups and is arranged in parallel along the radial direction of the immersed tube section.

9. A method of installing a pipe penetration seal, the method comprising: The construction method of the immersed tube water stop joint structure suitable for any one of claims 1 to 8 comprises: GINA water stop belts (11) are installed on the end faces of the first immersed tube section in a circumferential direction, and embedded steel plates (21) are arranged on the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section respectively; The first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section are placed in butt joint, and a temporary water stop assembly (1) is formed between the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section through hydraulic pressing to realize temporary water stop of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; The embedded steel plates (21) on the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section are connected through butt joint steel plates (22) to form a permanent water stop assembly (2) between the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section; Self-leveling concrete is poured between the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section through the reserved concrete pouring holes to form a concrete structure (3) covering the permanent water stop assembly (2), and the permanent water stop assembly (2) and the concrete structure (3) constitute a rigid joint to connect the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section.

10. The method of installing a pipe seal joint according to claim 9, wherein The temporary water stop assembly (1) formed between the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section comprises: The end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section are subjected to hydraulic pressing, so that the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section extrude the GINA water stop belts (11) to form temporary water stop; An inner-attached steel plate (12) is arranged between the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section, and the two ends of the inner-attached steel plate (12) are respectively pressed against the end steel shells (4) of the end faces of the first immersed tube section and the second immersed tube section through first bolt assemblies.

Images