Design and Manufacture of a New Large-Scale Three-Dimensional Geomechanics Model Test System

Geomechanics modeling has played important role in geotechnical engineering. In order to investigate on the stability of underground caverns at great depth, a large-scale geomechanics model test system was designed and manufactured. The system mainly consisted of a steel structural frame and a hydraulic loading control system, which can apply active loading on six sides with a true three-dimensional stress state. Newly developed combinational ball sliding walls were installed on each of the major loading surfaces, which were significantly reduced the friction due to model deformation. The system has apparent technical advantages such as high stiffness, great stability, and flexibility of assembly, and easy adjustment of its dimensions.