Abstract: The process of stepped excavation and support of the high-steep slope of cable-crane platform of Jinping hydropower station was simulated using finite element method. The effects of single-stage excavation height, strength parameters of rock mass, and supporting time on the deformation and stability of the slope were analysed. Results indicate that the deformation and safety factor are greatly influenced by the strength parameters of rock mass; when the rock mass is of good conditions, the height of single-stage excavation and the supporting time have small impacts on the deformation and safety factor, but when in poor conditions, the effects are significant, and larger height of single-stage excavation will lead to more obvious support effect. The research results provide reference for the optimization and construction of excavation and supporting scheme of high and steep slope engineering.

Key words: Jinping Hydropower Station, high and steep slope, safety factor, excavation height, supporting time, numerical simulation