Assessments of applicability of Q and RMi systems in binary tunnels of Bakhtiari dam_ Iran

The main rock mass classification systems make use of similar rock mass parameters. Due to lack of comprehensive estimation systems, determining the real specifications of jointed rocks faces some difficulties. A vast number of parameters with various degrees of impact are involved in such definitions. Combination impact of all the effective parameters is to be figured out in order to come up with an acceptable value. Different classification systems have some well-known drawbacks and limitations mainly due to their empirical base. However, they are still very useful in practice. Therefore, there is a need to improve their efficiency. Two of these classification systems are the RMi and the Q-system. Bakhtiari dam site is located in the southwest of Iran. The project area consists of the sedimentary bedrocks of Sarvak and Garau formations. The Sarvak Formation is divided into 7 units from Sv1 (oldest) to Sv7 (youngest). Deviation system of Bakhtiari dam includes two tunnels, namely upper and lower tunnels. In this paper, the result of geological scanning of rock masses in seven geological zones hosting binary tunnels of Bakhtiari dam have been utilized. This information along with data produced from many different laboratory tests have been used to estimate the values of Q and RMi for each of the geological zones. The pros and cons of both systems are revealed and relationships are driven between the two systems through statistical analysis. The paper also shows that there are good correlations between the two systems. Finally, the support details suggested by each system are determined.