Study on the Formation Law of the Freezing Temperature Field of Freezing Shaft Sinking under the Action of Large-Flow-Rate Groundwater

Taking into account moisture migration and heat change during the soil freezing process, as well as the influence of absolute porosity reduction on seepage during the freezing process, we construct a numerical model of hydrothermal coupling using laws of conservation of energy and mass. The model is verified by the results of large-scale laboratory tests. By applying the numerical calculation model to the formation of artificial shaft freezing temperature fields under the action of large-flow groundwater, we conclude that groundwater with flow rates of less than 5 m/d will not have a significant impact on the artificial freezing temperature field. The maximum flow rates that can be handled by single-row freezing pipes and double-row freezing pipes are 10 m/d and 20 m/d, respectively, during the process of freezing shaft sinking. By analyzing the variation of groundwater flow rate during freezing process, we find that the groundwater flow velocity can reach 5–7 times the initial flow velocity near the closure moment of the frozen wall. Finally, in light of the action characteristics of groundwater on the freezing temperature field, we make suggestions for optimal pipe and row spacing in freezing pipe arrangement.