In Situ Model Test and Numerical Simulation Study of Suspension Bridge Tunnel-Type Anchorage Adjacent to Bifurcated Tunnels

The construction of suspension bridges in mountainous expressways often involves tunnel-type anchorages in close proximity to shallow-buried bifurcated tunnels, particularly in soft rock strata with dense overlying structures. This proximity poses significant challenges to construction safety and stability. This study aims to investigate the influence of tunnel-type anchorage construction on the ground surface, surrounding rock, and adjacent bifurcated tunnels under such complex conditions. It was hypothesized that the anchorage load transfer and deformation mechanisms would significantly affect the adjacent tunnel, with potential cumulative effects due to the twin-anchor configuration. To address this, a combined approach of in situ scaled model testing (1:10 scale) and three-dimensional numerical simulation was employed. The model test incorporated monitoring of deformation and stress at key locations (anchor plug, rock mass, and anchor–rock interface) under incremental cable loads. Quantitative results from the model test indicate that at the design load (1P, equivalent to 2016.84 kN per anchor), deformations were minimal (e.g., maximum anchor displacement 0.35 mm). The anchor–rock interface exhibited limited slip (max 0.06 mm at 1P), and contact stresses were highest in the rear part of the anchor plug, indicating a non-uniform load transfer. Under overload conditions, the system reached yield at 7P and peak strength at 10.5P, with measured ground surface cracks up to 5 mm. Numerical simulations, calibrated against the experimental data, revealed that under increasing load (up to 10P), the plastic zones around the two anchors progressively expanded and eventually coalesced, leading to a characteristic “inverted trapezoid” failure pattern propagating to the surface, accompanied by shear failure along the 14° bedding plane. The combined results quantify the progressive interaction between the twin anchorages and the surrounding rock, highlighting the critical role of the anchor–rock interface and the cumulative effect of twin anchors on ground deformation and potential failure mechanisms. This research provides a scientific basis for the design and construction of tunnel-type anchorages in similar challenging geological and spatial settings.