All rights reserved Serbian Association for Tunnels and Underground Structures (ITA Serbia); Jaroslav Černi Water Institute, Belgrade Optimal Shield TBM Face Pressure for Surface Settlement Control: Belgrade Metro Case Study application/pdf 2613159 bytes Precise control of face pressure is essential in shield TBM tunneling to limit surface settlements and ensure the stability of surrounding structures, particularly in densely built-up urban environments. This study focuses on determining the optimal shield TBM face pressure for the specific geotechnical conditions of Phase 1, Line 1 of the Belgrade Metro, along the section from Bele Vode Station to Trgovačka Station. Three-dimensional numerical models, developed using a staged construction approach, realistically simulate sequential excavation, shield advancement, and segment installation, while incorporating representative ground properties and structural characteristics. A sensitivity analysis is conducted by systematically varying face pressure values to assess their influence on the magnitude and distribution of surface settlements. The results identify an optimal face pressure range that minimizes surface settlements while maintaining excavation stability. These findings provide practical guidance for shield TBM operation in urban tunneling, contributing to more effective settlement control and improved risk mitigation in shallow urban tunnel construction. Southeastern Europe Tunnelling Conference (SETC-2025), 1-3 October 2025, Belgrade, Serbia startpage: 255 endpage: 274 shield TBM, face pressure, surface settlement, numerical modelling, sensitivity analysis, urban tunneling 2025 https://unilib.phaidrabg.rs/o:8718 doi:10.5937/SETC25024M ISBN: 978-86-82565-56-7 info:eu-repo/semantics/conferenceProceedings eng Mirković, Uroš Mirković, Nikola Radovanović, Slobodan Divac, Nikola Šaponjić, Jovan Milivojević, Nikola Divac, Dejan