Based on the gate shaft of a hydropower station,a three-dimensional finite elements model was established. Based on ABAQUS software,Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion was used to simulate the process of excavating and supporting in soft rock of the shaft,a detailed comparison of the equivalent plastic strain,plastic zone and deformation in soft rock and the stress in the support structure were carried out.The results show that the concrete lining should be used as the main measure of support in the process of s...