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0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Engineering Responsibility
An Engineer's responsibility is to safety. They must act with integrity giving due
consideration to the purpose of the project and the ultimate effects of the project on
fellow human beings.
At the same time the Engineers are responsible to the community for the cost of the
structure. There is always a limit to the finance, so any cut in cost must not sacrifice
safety.
The Engineers also carries a legal responsibility, and are responsible at all times for both
what they do and what they say.
Consequences of Failure
Failure happens with fearful rapidity and usually without little warning, with the potential
to cause a national catastrophe.
When the Oros Dam failed in Brazil in March 1960, between 30 and 50 people were lost
and 100 000 people were evacuated, some 730 million cubic metres of water were
released in 34 hours with a peak flow of 9600 cubic metres per second.
Statistics - Classification of Risk according to Gruner
45%
Hydraulic Conditions
Geology
6%
Environment
6%
Consequences
49
72
Material
11
Layout
17
25
Design
13
48
76
Construction
32
41
Operation
Supervision
Total
16
14
27
162
14
236
1.2 Planning
Many dams are in existence that are over 1000 years old. Gravity and rockfill dams must
qualify for long structural lives wheras thin arches, multiple arches or buttress dams have
more limited lives, especially if they retain aggresive water.
It is usual to finance the building of a dam on the basis of repayment of its cost over 50 or
60 years. After this the only cost will be maintenance. The life of a dam may be
prejudiced by the amount of silt carried by the river, since the reservoir loses capacity. It
is possible to raise the dam by building up, but at a considerable expense.
Examples of reservoir estimated lives due to siltation; (Snowy Mountains Project)
Reservoir
Estimated years
Eucumbene
10,000
Tantangara
10,000
Tumut Pond
4,000
Tooma
4,000
Sanitary Engineering
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Structural Engineering
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Demography
History
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Transportation
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Systems Programming
Coffer Dams - Coffer dams usually are temporary structures built upstream from a dam
to prevent stream flow around the excavation for a dam. In valleys of steep profile
diversion commonly is accomplished by a tunnel or tunnels in the walls of the valley.
Commonly the diversion tunnels are put to further use to control flow from the reservoir
either for drainage of the reservoir or for flow under pressure into a hydroelectric
generating plant. In valleys of low profile diversion is by tunnels, canals, or by conduits
which subsequently are buried by the dam. It is not unusual in embankment dams to
incorporate the coffer dam into the larger embankment structure comprising the designed
dam.
Fish ladders - dams constructed
on streams that are the migration
paths for spawning fish commonly
make provisions for movement of
the fish up or in the vicinity of the
downstream face of the dam. The
facility that permits fish migration
is usually called a fish ladder. See
figure.
Gates - gates are devices installed
in the tops of spillways to control
the flow of water over the
spillway.
Headwater (H1) - For the basic calculation of stability the level in the reservoir will be
assumed at or above the level required for the passage of the design flood. In many
instances the dam is designed for the highest level of watertightness, e.g. a concrete
parapet.
Silt (H2) - A changed land usage as a result of a dam may well result in increased erosion,
causing a deposition of silt. Unless very deep deposits of silt are likely it is adequate to
assume a triangular load allotting an appropiate relative density to the fluid. This would
have a maximum value of 1.4.
Reservoir Behaviour (H3) - Wind and other natural causes will induce movement in the
reservoir as waves, reservoir set-up or seiche effect.
Ice Loading (H4) - It is assumed that ice will not form and exert pressure on the dam at
times of maximum flood. The slope of the upstream face of the dam as well as the slope
and roughness of the valley walls will influence the magnitude of ice loading. Even wind
blowing down the reservoir at 50km/hr may increase the ice loading by 4-5 t/m of
exposed face.
Tailwater (H5) - In some cases water is ponded downstream from the dam. Assistance
from this may be assumed but it must not be overlooked that, in the case of an overflow
dam, flood waters passing over the dam might well evacuate such water from the face of
the dam.
Seismic Force (H6) - Force acting on dam in horizontal plane.
Seiche effect (H7) - Is an undulation in the reservoir water due to natural causes,
intermittent wind, variation in atmospheric pressure, earthquake and motion of the Earth.
Usually less than 0.5m, though levels of 2m have been reported in Lake Geneva.
2.2.2 Vertical Loads
Weight of Dam (V1)- The unit weight of material in the dam should be determined as
accurately as possible. An underestimation by 1% will represented a considerable
additional cost on the dam.
Vertical Water Loading (V2) - Imposed on any sloping surface of the dam, usually the
upstream face, but also on the downstream for overflow dams.
Wind Speed
Set-up
(years)
(km/h)
(m)
1000
160
0.75
100
125
0.45
10
95
0.26
88
0.22
77
0.17
Thermal Effects - Concrete dams will be subject to loading from temperature variation
within the dam caused by hydration of the cement and due to seasonal variations. Water
as depth doesn't vary, but towards the surface it varies with season. A skew loading is
used to describe solar and air temperature effects.
Construction Loads - Concrete dams of cupola and buttress shape offer good resistance to
water loading when complete but during construction it is necessary to control the rate of
construction and to include reinforcement in overhanging sections.
Direction of Forces - At certain locations it may be appropiate to increase the radius of an
arch dam and accept higher stresses within the dam in order to ensure better angle of
incidence of the resultant thrust with the abutment. The direction of resultant forces is
important for gravity and buttress dams - especially on stratified rock.
Hydrostatic Loading within the Foundation or Abutment - Faults, cracks and joints are
present in most damsites. Forces due to a large dam may cause cracks to appear in the
rock upstream from the dam, this may cause jacking loads that could cause failure. To
avoid this, careful surveys should be made of the orientation and inclination of faults,
joints and cracks.
Tectonic Forces - Besides seismic effects, there may be significant tectonic forces on the
Earth's crust at the site and these may be upset by deep excavation or saturation due to the
filling of the reservoir.
Design
o
o
o
1.5-3.5
1.0-1.5
0.8-2.5
1.0-1.5
conrete/rock interface
1.0-3.0
0.8-1.8
1.0-3.0
1.0-1.8
<1.0
<1.0
3.0
2.0
<1.0
foundation rock
4.0
2.7
1.3
1.3-1.5
Following rapid drawndown (slip circles between high and low water levels) 1.2-1.3
1.2
1.5
In an area subject to earthquakes the following factors are indicative of acceptable values:
Seismic coefficient
0.1
FoS
1.8
Seismic coefficient
0.3
FoS
1.15
Infilled pits
Original topography and drainage conditions
Changes in stream and river courses
Changes in landslide areas, fence lines, path lines
5. Aerial Photography
o Landsat Images
o Colour and infra red photography
6. Previous Site Investigation Reports
7. Local people and authorities
o
o
o
o
The joints may be open or infilled with products of decomposition, they present
construction hazards and possible leakage paths around the dam.
Examination along the beds of the river and tributary streams will indicate the
strike and dip of rock formations.
Any springs or underground water should be identified since they provide leakage
paths from the reservoir.
The depth of alluvium or soil should be determined to indicate the excavation
required and the probable quantity of material required for the dam.
At this stage, the preliminary geological data should be assessed and enhanced by
mapping and modelling. This can help to highlight important considerations about which
type of dam may be most appropriate, and any problems which may be encountered,
before extensive drilling or exploratory works are performed. Assessment of preliminary
data will assist in the choice of exploratory methods and in the design of the exploratory
programme as a whole.
Check list for Site Investigation
1. Topography - Flat, gently undulating, rolling, sharp hills, mountains, difference
between highest and lowest areas.
2. Sharp breaks in topography - Ridges, canyons, depressions.
3. Surface soil - Loose, hard, moist or dry, boulders and gravel (scattered or in
zones), topsoil and organic matter.
4. Rock outcrops - Surface, highway and railroad cuts, hillsides, weathered and
unweathered.
5. Drainage pattern - Dendritic, lattice, parallel, water gaps, waterfalls, direction of
primary drainage.
6. Surface water - Stream, seasonal or perennial, fluctuations, floods, lakes, marshes,
disappearing rivers.
7. Ground water - Wells, seeps, springs, artesian wells.
8. Erosion - Severe or moderate, U or V shaped cross section, steep or gently sloping
heads of gullies.
9. Land use - Cultivated or barren, type of crop or vegetation, good or poor quality.
10. Existing structures, recollections of old residents.
Auger Boring - Generally limited to firm soils, above the watertable. Gravel larger
than about a third of the diameter of the hole cannot be drilled but very hard soil
and soft rock can often be penetrated if sufficient power is available.
Test Boring Core Drilling Diamond Drilling Short Drilling or Calyx Drilling -
Undisturbed Sampling
Pit Sampling
Thin-walled Samplers
Foil Samplers
Rotary Samplers
Laboratory Testing
Correlation of Test Results
Field testing
Test Pit
Plate Load Test
Seepage Test
Borrow pit investigations
Sampling
Laboratory Testing
Test Strip
The evaluation of preliminary desk and field work should assess the potential for major
hazards and qualitatively assess the likelihood of encountering any more hazards. This
should allow a ranking of the potential sites in order of their probable suitability.
Following the desk study and preliminary field work, it may be necessary to establish a
pattern and base level of seismicity for later evaluation of induced seismicity. If potential
active faults are identified, seismic arrays should be installed to monitor these. This will
help assess the need for criteria changes should seismic activity occur after the feasibility
stage has been completed and the design is well advanced.
The next stage is to produce a detailed investigation of the chosen site.
Fresh Rock
Slightly Weathered
Moderately
Weathered
Weathering extends throughout the rock mass, but the rock is not
friable.
Highly Weathered
Weathering extends throughout the rock mass, but the rock material is
partly friable.
Completely
Weathered
Soil
2.
Prefailure Deformation
o
o
3.
Brittle
Plastic
Gross Homogeneity
o
o
5.
Elastic
Viscous
Failure Characteristics
o
o
4.
Massive
Layered
Continuity in Formation
o
o
o
4.4.3 Amphibolites
Gneiss, mica schists and associated rocks are considered to be satisfactory for
sustaining bearing pressure and for water-tightness. However, gneiss and
particularly mica schist are less favourable due to the mica which may facilitate
slipping.
Where gneiss and mica schists are associated, a very weak zone of disintegrated
rock may be found at the junction of these two rocks.
Example: the Forks dam, California, founded on gneiss and mica schists, had to be
abandoned in 1929 because of bad foundations which occurred at the junction of these
two rocks which, in themselves, were quite sound.
Example: The Lavaude-Gelade dam in the Central Massif, Creuse, France was founded
on altered granulite. The alteration in the granulite was found to persist to a depth of 20m,
in addition to being broken and fissured. The site required an extensive grouting injection
with cement, clay and bentonite.
4.4.5 Limestone
Limestone dam sites vary widely in their suitability. Thickly bedded horizontally
lying limestones which are relatively free from solution cavities afford excellent
dam sites. On the other hand, thin bedded, highly folded, or cavernous limestones
are likely to present serious foundation or abutment problems involving bearing
capacity and water tightness.
Concrete dams have been constructed on Jurassic limestone at Castillon, where
slips and leakage problems have occurred. These have been surmounted by an
extensive grouting scheme.
4.4.6 Sandstones
Sandstones have a wide range of strength depending largely upon the amount and type of
cement matrix material occupying the voids of the rock. Generally sandstones do not
deteriorate rapidly on exposure to the surface with the exception of shaly sandstone. As a
foundation rock sandstone is not susceptible to plastic deformation, even with poorly
cemented sandstones. However, sandstones are susceptible to erosion due to the scouring
and plucking action from the overflow of dams and so have to be adequately protected by
suitable hydraulic structures.
Sandstones are frequently interbedded with shales. The sandstone-shale contact may
allow seepage of water and may cause potential sliding. Severe uplift pressures may also
develop beneath beds of shale in a dam due to the swelling characteristics of shales.
Many dams in the English Pennines have been constructed on Carboniferous sandstones
interbedded with shales, most of them as earth embankments.
Example : Longdendale, Langsett, Scar House reservoirs and Ladybower reservoir on the
Sabden shales in the Derwent valley.
4.4.7 Clays
Clay formations are often thick and massive and are frequently associated with thin
seams of sandstone or limestone. Earth dams or rockfill dams are usually constructed on
clay foundations because clays lack the load bearing properties necessary to support
concrete dams.
Example : The embankments of the Staines, Chingford, and other reservoirs in the
Thames and Lee valleys may be cited as reservoirs wholly in London Clay ,whilst the
Cheddar reservoir near Bristol lies on Keuper Marl.
Laboratory Testing
Field Testing
Quality
The degree of weathering
Presence of micro-cracks
The strength of a rock mass will depend upon The number of cracks and joints
The nature of their infilling material
24-120
Greywacke
20-30
Shale
35-110
Sandstone
40-200
Limestone
50-240
Dolomite
50-150
Granite
90-230
Basalt
200-350
Dolerite
240-320
Gneiss
80-330
Tuff
0.9
Schist Biotite
0.5
Limestone
0.6
0.5
Granite (weathered)
0.8
The shear strength of a rock mass may be seriously affected by saturation since both the
cohesion and angle of friction will decrease.
Therefore, most rocks do not exhibit perfect elasticity. The extent of irrecoverability of
strain in response to load cycles may be important for the design and can be determined
by the slope of the load/deformation curve.
Modulus of Elasticity
(MPa x 1000)
Limestone
3-27
Dolomite
7-15
70
Sandstone
10-20
Quartz-sandstone
60-120
Greywacke
10-14
Siltstone
3-14
Gneiss - fine
9-13
Gneiss - coarse
13-23
Schist - Micaceous
21
Schist - Biotite
40
Schist - Granitic
10
Schist - Quartz
14
10-20
Granite - good
20-50
Quartzite - Micaceous
28
Quartzite - sound
50-80
Dolerite
70-100
Basalt
Andesite
Amphibolite
50
20-50
90
The large ranges emphasize the need for testing at each site.
4.5.4 Deformability
The modulus of elasticity of rock is normally adequate, but due to the existence of joints,
faults amd seams in the rock mass - sometimes open and sometimes filled with products
of decompostion, the modulus of deformation may be inadequate.
The capacity of a rock to strain under applied loads or in response to unloading on
excavation is known as deformability. The strains present in rock concern engineers even
when there is little risk of rock failure, because large rock displacements can raise
stresses within structures.
For example a dam founded on varying rock types of different deformability properties
will develop shear and diagonal tension stresses due to the unequal deflections of the
foundations. The deflections can be handled by structuring the dam correctly, if the rock
properties are known and the variation of properties within the foundations are
determined.
normal load is applied and held until any displacements have stabilised, the tangential
load is then applied in steps and displacements measured. By repeating the test with
different normal loads, values of cohesion and angle of friction can be derived.
Techniques for measurement
Hydraulic Fracturing
Flat Jack Method
Overcoring
Under 3
3-6
Above 6 or 7
Example : Piave di Cadore dam (Italy) was constructed as a thick arch dam with a chordheight ratio of 5.5. It's thickness was less than a gravity dam but more than a thin arch
dam.
If the narrow valley is filled with permeable and compressible material, for example from
a glacial origin, the dam engineer has two choices:
More and more thick arch dams with a thickness of less than the gravity section will be
constructed in the future as more confidence is gained in:
The reliability of new models confirm and even supplant the mathematical
analyses.
The experience of strengthening weak foundations to carry heavier unit
pressures which are to be sustained compared with the gravity section.
accordance with the Bernoulli theorem, and then explosive collapse of the bubbles where
the velocity diminishes.
Deposition of the solid load is a consequence of a decrease in the stream gradient, volume
or velocity. Features of deposition in a stream are alluvial flood plains, deltaic deposits
and alluvial fans.
When considering the construction of a dam and reservoir in a valley the concern
generally is with only a relatively short segment of the total length of a stream, and
particular attention is given to whether in the floor of the valley erosional features on the
average dominate or are subsidiary to depositional features.
4.7.3 Glaciated Valleys
Streamcut valleys that have been modified by glaciers moving through them are of
interest. The figure shows an idealised plan and sections of a stream and glacier eroded
valley with two stages of glacier advance and retreat and prior and intervening periods of
stream erosion. Morainal ridges formed by deposition of glacial till along the sides of the
glacier are called lateral moraines. Stationary moraine is termed end or terminal moraine.
metamorphic bedrocks. Although they may not be easily observed, gravity-slip surfaces
may be present in bedrock as indicated in the figure below and contribute to the
instability of the foundation and abutments of a dam that might be constructed at the site.
Deposition of all or much of the suspended and traction load transported by the
stream;
Increase in downward and lateral erosion by clear or desilted water downstream
from the obstruction.
Attempts to control the rate of filling of reservoirs by sediment may include construction
of dams and reservoirs to intercept sediment upstream from a major facility, such as a
large dam for electric power generation, and regional programs for soil stabilisation and
conservation in upstream drainage basins.
Based on Dams, Dam Foundations and Reservoir Sites by E.E.
Wahlstrom
Gravity Dams
Buttress Dams
Multiple Arch Dams
Thick Arch Dams
Rockfill Dams
Hydraulic Fill Dams
Earthen Embankments
Composite Dams
The buttress dam is suitable where the rock is capable of bearing pressures of 2 3 MPa.
Buttress dams require between a half and two thirds of the concrete required for a
gravity section, hence making it more economical for dams over 14m.
Additional skilled labour is required to create the formwork.
Threat of deterioration of concrete from the impounded water is more likely than
from a thick gravity section.
There is also an elimination of a good deal of uplift pressure, the pressure
resulting from the water in the reservoir and possibly of water from the hillside
rocks gaining access through or under any grout curtain and exerting upwards
underneath the mass concrete dam.
An arch dam utilises the strength of an arch to resist loads placed upon it by 'arch action'.
The foundations and abutments must be competent not only to support the dead weight of
the dam on the foundation but also the forces that are directed into the abutments because
of arch action in response to the forces acting on the dam. Therefore, the strength of the
rock mass at the abutments and immediately downvalley of the dam must be
unquestionable and its modulus of elasticity must be high enough to ensure deformation
under thrust from the arch is not so great as to induce excessive stresses in the arch.
4.8.3 Multiple Arch Dams
The thick arch dam can be built where the crest chord-height ratio is between 3
and 5.
The chief geological criterion is that the rock must be absolutely reliable to bear
3.5 MPa or more without any appreciable settlement.
A substantial saving in material compared with that of gravity dams.
Thick arch dams are difficult to design on paper but are well determined from
trials on models.
Thin arch dams require valleys to have a crest chord-height ratio of under 3, with
a radius of under 150m.
The pressure exerted on the valley sides is between 5.5 - 8 MPa
Where there is a vertical radius of curvature as well as a horizontal, this is known
as a cupola or dome type.
Used where cement is expensive and labour is cheap.
Suitable in valleys of soft material and are constructed by pumping soft material
duly consolidated up to moderated heights up to 30m.
Near the site there must be clay to fill the trench and embanking material capable
of standing safely, without slipping, to hold up a clay core.
An advantage of earthen embankments is that troubles due to the deterioration of
the structure by peaty waters of low pH do not arise.
Not only can different types of dam can be built in the same valley, but the same
dam can be of different types owing to the varying geological and topographical
features of the dam site.
Many buttress dams also join up with gravity mass concrete dams at their
haunches at the sides of the valley, and again at the centre have a mass concrete
gravity dam to form a suitable overflow or spillway.
2. Whether filling of the reservoir might induce earthquake activity, with the
possibility of damage to the dam or liability for damage to other structures or
persons. Although the magnitude of the shocks maybe low, the proximity of the
epicentres could make the effects more serious.
Triggered Events
Seismographs - For large dams the installation of seismographs is not expensive. These
seismographs will be triggered to record major events of a predetermined magnitude. It is
usual to install such instruments on rock at the base of the dam, on the crest of the dam
and preferably on rock at a short distance from the dam.
The magnitude of an earthquake is an indication of its absolute size, or total energy
release. It is measured by the Richter Scale which is an arbitrary logarithmic scale. It
defines the magnitude in terms of the maximum amplitude of a standard seismometer at a
distance of 100 km from the epicentre.
The intensity of an earthqu
Underground Explosions
Fluid Injection
Reservoir Filling
filling was of 6.4 which subjected the dam to accelerations of 0.5 g under which it did not
fail, despite considerable damage. It was later strengthened by heavy buttresses.
4.10.3 Mining
The existence of a mine either under a reservoir or a dam will present many problems
such as:
Possible subsidence of the foundation of the dam
Loss of water from the reservoir
Flooding of the mine
Excessive hydrostatic pressure at faces in the mine
When the mine is under a reservoir there is the possibility that sufficient water could pass
through the intervening rocks to flood the mine, or at least increase drainage problems.
Even if the rock series were sufficiently impermeable to impede the flow of water, there
is the possibility that excessive interstical pressure could build up - with the danger to
mine faces. If the mine is above and adjacent to the reservoir, saturation of the hillside
and change in the water table could lead to potential instability. Seismic effects from
blasting within the mine might then be sufficient to trigger a landslide.
Any site investigation must include both existing mines and potential mines, for matters
of liability.
Water in the sea evapourates under solar radiation, and clouds of water vapour move over
land areas. Precipitation occurs as snow, hail, rain and condensate in the form of dew,
over land and sea. Snow and ice on land are water in temporary storage. Rain falling over
land surfaces may be intercepted by vegetation and evaporate back to the atmosphere.
Some of it infiltrates into the soil and moves down or percolates into the saturated ground
zone beneath the water table, or phreatic surface. The water in this zone flows slowly
through aquifers to river channels or sometimes directly to the sea. The water that
infiltrates also feeds the surface plant life and some gets drawn up into this vegetation
where transpiration takes place from leafy plant surfaces.
The water remaining on the surface partially evapourates back to vapour, but the bulk of
it coalesces into streamlets and runs as surface runoff to the river channels. The river and
lake surfaces also evapourate, so still more is removed here. Finally, the remaining water
that has not infiltrated or evapourated arrives back at the sea via the river channels. The
groundwater, moving much more slowly, either emerges into the stream channels or
arrives at the coastline and seeps into the sea, and the whole cycle starts again.
Man can exercise some control only when the rain has fallen on the land and is making
its way back to the sea.
5.4 Freeboard
Freeboard - 'The vertical distance between the top of the dam and the full supply level on
the reservoir.'
The top of the dam is the level of watertightness of the structure and may be the top of a
parapet that is watertight throughout its length. Full supply level is the level adopted in
design for the maximum operation of the reservoir.
To determine a value for freeboard the following must be considered;
Flood Surcharge
Seiche effects
Wind set-up of the water surface
Wave action
Run-up of waves on the dam.
Inaccuracy of data;
Large risks if breached;
Type of dam.
S=VFcosA / kD
S Wind setup
V Wind speed over water
(m)
(km/h)
F Fetch
(km)
D Average depth
(m)
()
k Constant
62 000
Set-up of the reservoir will depend upon the period of time over which the wind blows.
The wind speed 10m above the surface of a new reservoir will be greater than the
recorded over the original topography and the following factors usually apply:
Effective fetch(km)
12
Wind Ratio (Over water / Over land) 1.1 1.16 1.23 1.29 1.31
5.5 Floods
5.5.1 Estimation of design flood
There are two methods now commonly used;
The statistical analysis of past floods with extrapolation to estimate the magnitude
and probability of occurence of future floods, and;
The estimation of probable maximum precipitation on to the particular catchment
under the worst meteorological conditions likely to occur over the catchment,
followed by an estimation of the run-off that would result from such a storm.
As above, but with extension of the flow records by correlation with flows from
adjacent catchments;
Statistical analysis of rainfall records and extrapolation;
As preceeding, but with extension of data by correlation with other stations;
Correlation studies including both rainfall and flow records;
Estimation of 'maximum possible' rainfall by Meteorological Services and
application of such data to the estimation of 'probable maximum flood' from
catchment;
Comparison with known events and other designs adopted for the region by the
use of such means as the Creager coefficients.
Symmetrical hydrodynamic flow net beneath a dam with its base at ground level
When the base of the dam figure 2, is set below ground elevation and a cut-off is
constructed there is a change in flow net compared to figure 1, that results in the
following advantages:
1. The uplift pressure at the heel of the dam is reduced and the total uplift pressure
downstream from the cut-off has been diminished. Accordingly, the moment of
uplift forces tending to lift the dam has been reduced.
2. The danger of piping and erosion at the toe of the dam has been reduced or
eliminated.
3. The longer flow paths along the streamlines below the cut-off causes a notable
decrease in the exit velocities downstream in the proximity of the dam and
reduces total seepage under the dam.
Hydrodynamic flow net beneath a dam with its base below ground level and with an
impermeable cut-off near the heel of the dam
Almost an infinite number of possibilities exists with respect to the magnitude and space
distribution of zones of potential seepage in bedrock in the vicinities of dams and in the
reservoirs behind the dams. A few of the many possible configurations of zones of
potential are shown below;
Idealised cross sections of dams showing various kinds of zones of potential seepage
in bedrock.
topsoil, swamp muck or peat, loose deposits of sand or silt, talus accumulations and
plastic, active, sensitive, or swelling clays.
Poor foundation conditions in rocks are associated with close fracturing, weathering or
hydrothermal alteration, or poorly indurated sedimentary rocks.
6.2.4 Excavation in bedrock
The objective of excavation is the preparation of a clean surface that will provide
optimum contact with the dam materials, whether earth or concrete is to be placed on that
surface. Therefore excavations in bedrock should extend into firm, fresh rock. Any
closely fractured zones extending downward, especially if containing soft altered
materials such as clay gouge or other products of weathering, should be removed if
feasible.
Prolonged exposure of both earth and rock foundations to the atmosphere or to water
frequently results in deterioration by hydration, dehydration, frost action, shrinkage, and
expansion with changes in temperature. It is good practice to protect reactive surfaces
that will be exposed for long periods of time with bituminous materials. Alternatively,
original cover is not removed until final cleanup and just prior to placement of the dam.
6.2.5 Construction on unconsolidated deposits
At an ideal site, excavations in unconsolidated deposits should extend to solid bedrock
for the full width of the dam, whether it is constructed of concrete or earth/rock fill.
However, there are many locations where the depth of the valley fill is so great that dams
must be constructed in part or entirely on unconsolidated deposits. Where this is the case
steps must be taken to improve the engineering properties of the foundation materials and
to reduce subsurface seepage to allowable levels.
Except for low dams of small gross weight, concrete dams are not built on
unconsolidated deposits because of their generally low bearing strength. Larger dams
constructed in whole or in part on unconsolidated deposits should without exception, be
earth or rockfill dams with the capacity to adjust to settlement in the foundation
materials.
6.2.6 CONCRETE
Preparation of foundations - the extent of the work that will be necessary in the
foundations for a concrete dam will be determined by two main factors, their strength to
sustain the loads that will be imposed by dam and the reservoir water, and the effect of
water entering the foundations under pressure from the reservoir.
Generally the quality of foundations for a gravity dam will improve with depth of
excavation however the abutments for an arch dam often do not improve with distance
excavated into the sides of the valley. Deterioration of clay could endanger the dam
and/or lead to collapse of abutments downstream from the dam.
Frequently the course of the river has been determined by geological faults or
weaknesses; proving of the river bed is therefore of first importance in the investigation
stage. The depth to be excavated will depend upon the nature of the infilling material, the
shape of the excavated zone, and the depth of cutoff necessary to ensure an acceptable
hydraulic gradient after the reservoir is filled.
Concrete dams may be constructed on foundations other than massive rock, i.e. shales,
glacial deposits or even sand for river works. Each case must be examined relative to
permeability, settlement, and load-carrying capacity (vertical and horizontal).
The final preparation of the foundation should be undertaken just prior to the placement
of concrete. It should include the removal of loose rock and all debris, roughening of
smooth rock surfaces, washing down of all surfaces, and the removal of excess water
from pools to leave a clean damp surface to receive the concrete.
Figure 1 - 'Plastic' Mechanism for shear failure of foundation materials; Load is directed
vertically
For a load directed vertically downward it is assumed and born out by model studies that
a symmetrical wedge is formed by shear dislocation. Extension of the shear surfaces
bounding the wedge, first as curved surfaces, and then as planar surfaces intersecting the
earth's surface, provides a mechanism for shear failure along symmetrically disposed
surfaces beneath the dam.
Figure 2 - 'Plastic' Mechanism for shear failure of foundation materials; Load is directed
asymmetrically
Figure 2 shows the consequences of application of an inclined load, either because of an
inclined surface at the base of the dam or because of an interaction between the load
component acting vertically due to the weight of the dam and the pressure exerted on the
dam by the hydrostatic pressure of the water in the reservoir. The result is a tendency to
shear along a single surface that intersects the earth's surface downstream from the dam.
If pre-existing planes of weakness of appropiate orientation exist in the foundation
materials, it should be expected that the shear surfaces will deflect into them.
The geologic conditions in foundations for concrete dams that should be avoided are
indicated below.
Slope failures toward abutments (in direction of the dam axis) which disturb or dislocate
the abutments are rare. In concrete dams in which slopes in the abutment areas maintain
themselves during excavation for the foundation, the possibility of downslope movement
along surfaces that intersect the foundation of the dam is remote because of the added
stability provided by the weight and strength of the dam. However, the possibility that
slopes above the dam, especially in deep valleys, may fail and bury surface structures
with rock and/or soil debris.
Figure - Conditions promoting possible slope
failure beneath abutments of an earth or
rock-fill dam along curves shear surfaces.
Shale beneath a sandstone layer has been
weakened by infiltration of water from the
reservoir.
(C) Wahlstrom, Ernest Dams, Dam Foundations and Reservoir Sites
capacity is defined as the least pressure which would cause shear failure of the supporting
soil immediately below and adjacent to a foundation. However, this value still may mean
risk of excessive settlement or differential settlement. Thus the allowable bearing
capacity which is used in design will take into account all possibilities of ground
movement and so its value will normally be less than the safe bearing capacity.
Every seepage discharge surface, both internal and external, which could be susceptible
to piping or heave must be covered with filters that permit water to pass but will hold the
soil particles firmly in place.
6.3.5.1.2 Filter criteria
Since the core is stabilised with rock or gravel zones, it is necessary to prevent the fine
core material being sucked into the upstream shell material during rapid drawdown of the
reservoir, or forced into the downstream shell by seepage water under reservoir head.
Transition or filter zones must therefore be provided on each side of the core.
The upstream filter, if non-cohesive and of proper grading, can serve a valuable service
by providing material for induced self-healing should a transverse crack appear in the
core. Selection of the best material for this purpose is well justified. Although its prime
function is to retain the core material against movement into the rockfill, the downstream
transition material should be selected and placed so as to inhibit the propagation of a core
crack into the compacted rockfill. It is good practice to widen the transition zones
towards each abutment, i.e. where tension and oblique cracking may occur.
To prevent migration of fines from the core:
D15/D85 < 4-5
(filter)/(zone being filtered)
D50/D50 < 25
(filter)/(zone being filtered)
For sufficient permeability:
D15/D15 > 4-5
(filter)/(zone being filtered)
To prevent segregation of the filter:
D60/D10 < 20
(filter)/(filter)
For reservoir depths greater than 15 m, most engineers would place a drainage system
further inside the embankment where it will be more effective in reducing pore pressures
and controlling seepage.
6.3.5.3.2.3 Horizontal drainage blanket
Horizontal drainage blankets are often used for dams of moderate height.
Drainage blankets are frequently used over the downstream one-half or one-third of the
foundation area. The Bureau of Reclamation's 45 m Vega Dam is a homogeneous dam
which has been constructed with a horizontal downstream drain. Where pervious material
is scarce, the internal strip drains can be placed instead since these give the same general
effect.
6.3.5.3.2.4 Disadvantages of horizontal drainage blankets
An earth dam embankment tends to be more pervious in the horizontal direction than in
the vertical. Occasionally, horizontal layers tend to be much more impervious than the
average material constructed into the embankment, so the water will flow horizontally on
a relatively impervious layer and discharge on the downstream face despite the horizontal
drain.,p> Where this has occurred the downstream slope is prone to slipping and piping.
Repairs can be made by installing pervious blankets on the downstream slopes or
constructing vertical drains to connect with the horizontal blanket. Such vertical drains
are normally composed of sand and gravel.
In some major dam projects, chimney drains have been inclined at a considerable slope,
both upstream and sometimes downstream. An upstream inclined drain can act as a
relatively thin core. In addition to controlling seepage through the dam and increasing the
stability of the downstream slope, the chimney drain is also useful in reducing pore water
pressures both during construction and following rapid reservoir drawdown.
6.3.5.3.3 Dimensions and permeability of drains
The dimensions and permeability of permeable drains must be adequate to carry away the
anticipated flow with an ample margin of safety for unexpected leaks. If the dam and the
foundations are relatively impermeable, then the expected leakage would be low. A drain
should be constructed of material with a coefficient of permeability of at least 10 to 100
times greater than the average embankment material.
6.3.6 Settlement
All structures undergo some settlement, regardless of their construction or of the quality
of their foundations. Structures made of soil or founded on soil settle so much that their
performance is affected and their safety is compromised.
Concrete dams are almost always based on strong rock foundations where settlement of
the dam is kept to a minimum otherwise the dams would crack leading to serious
structural faults. Embankment dams can be founded on soft compressible materials and
are able to withstand large settlements.
Causes of settlement
Measurement of settlement
Effects of settlement on structures
Settlement due to changes in environment
6.3.6.3.2 Tilting
Tilting occurs in the parts of the structure that are outside the centre of the saucer-like
depression. It also takes place when the structure is unevenly loaded, or when the soils
are non-uniform. It is of importance mainly with tall structures such as large retaining
walls, transmission towers, water tanks, and smoke stacks. It is particularly serious in
structures that are inter-connected. The amount of tilt which can be tolerated depends on
the height-width ratio of the structure.
6.3.6.3.4 Distortion
Differential settlement which produces relative movement is known as distortion. The
load of an embankment on a uniform soil produces a settlement profile as shown below.
There is also a tendency for cracks to develop as indicated. These cracks may lead to
accelerated seepage, erosion, and even failure.
Figure 1 - The load of an embankment on a uniform soil produces a settlement profile as
shown and a tendency to develop cracks at the points indicated. Such cracks can possibly
lead to accelerated seepage, erosion and even seepage failure.
Figure 2 - The non uniform foundation thickness and the greater loading at the centre
than at the abutments brings about a sagging profile along the axis. Shear cracks tend to
form as shown. These are far more serious because they extend from upstream to
downstream and several dam failures have been attributed to such cracking.
Figure 3 - When a small portion of the embankment extends beyond the main section
shear cracks sometimes develop.
Figure 4 - Similar settlement adjacent to an overhanging abutment can create cracks at
their juncture.
6.4.4 Grouting
Grouting Operations in Bedrock
The goal of foundation and abutment grouting in bedrock is improvement of strength and
bearing capacity and the filling with grout of underground channelways that have a
potential for impermissible seepage. The most general technique uses drilling and
pressure grouting, either with water-cement mixtures or with other types of sealants.
Preliminary geological and geophysical investigations usually reveal only the general
characteristics of the bedrock, it is not until the keyway for the dam has been excavated
and the bare rock can be examined. This is a critical time because the constructor is eager
to proceed with the dam construction, however this is the last chance to ensure that all the
fissures are sealed to prevent water loss at a later stage and must be extensively treated to
assure ultimate safety of the dam.
Although grouting of a rock foundation may be conducted with meticulous care, the
possibiliy always exists that some channelways of underground water circulation remain
and that flow through these chanelways will accelerate as the reservoir is filled. If the
volumes are excessive then remedial steps must be taken, otherwise the flows may be
intercepted and diverted by drain holes or porous prisms.
6.4.6 Grout
Grout is a liquid, either a uniform chemical substance or an aqueous suspension of solids
that is injected into rocks or unconsolidated materials through specially drilled boreholes
to improve bulk physical properties and/or to eliminate seepage of groudwater.
There are three basic types;
1. Portland cement-base slurries
2. Chemical Grouting solutions
3. Organic resins, including epoxy resins.
Portland based are the most widely used.
Earth dam
Concrete arch-dam
Concrete arch-dam
Dipping sedimentary
layers present a
potential for seepage
under a dam. Inclined
holes are drilled to
intersect a limestone
layer and a brittle
sandstone layer.
lateral and/or vertical travel of the grout suspension is greatly impeded or brought to a
halt. In larger openings, presupposing interconnecting avenues of circulation, grout
suspensions move with ease and in some instances travel surprisingly large distances.
If easy grout circulation continues with the progress of the grouting operation, the
suspension is gradually thickened and, if necessary, the pressure correspondingly
increased until filling of available openings is indicated by refusal of the grout hole to
accept additional grout. Grout leaks at the surface should be calked or otherwise sealed to
promote confined subsurface movement of grout suspensions.
The definitions of thin and thick are not precise, but generally thin mixtures are construed
to mean mixtures prepared by mixing 8-10 volumes water with one volume of cement.
Thick mixtures have volume proportions of cement to water of approximately 1:1, or
thicknesses that are not so great that the grout can not be pumped with reasonable ease. In
highly permeable materials thick grout mixtures are indicated with inert additives such as
clay or sand may be added to grout suspensions as inexpensive fillers.
If grout pressures exceed certain limits there is the possibility of foundation dislocation
and new channelways being created. Because of a wide range in complexity of patterns
of underground circulation it is not possible to establish a rigid formula for controlling
grout pressures at the top of a grout hole. For curtain grouting, a rule that is sometimes
followed states that pressure in an initially thin grout suspension is increased to a level
which establishes a free circulation (assuming channelways for circulation are present)
but not in excess of the calculated hydrostatic pressure of the filled reservoir at the
elevation of the collar of the grout hole plus 0.7-3.5 bar.
Premature thickening of grout or reduction of pressures to cause grout refusal in a grout
hole should be avoided unless it can be demonstrated that grout is escaping to the surface
well outside of the foundation area. So long as grout is circulating somewhere in the
foundation of a dam or in the near proximity of the foundation, it must be assumed that it
is contributing to an improvement of the engineering properties of foundation materials
and to a reduction in permeability to groundwater seepage.
ARCH DAMS
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Introduction
Design Concepts and
Criteria
Uplift
Stresses
Contraction Joints
Galleries
Appurtenant Structures
8.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Introduction
Design concepts and
criteria
Abutments - Stability
Shell geometry
Contraction joints
Prestressing
BUTTRESS DAMS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Introduction
Concrete Slab Deck
Massive Head Buttress
Multiple Arch Dam
Buttresses
Uplifting and Sliding
Spill-over Buttress
Dams
8.
Prestressing
Masonry dams that relied upon their weight for stability against sliding and overturning
date back 3000 to 4000 years, both upstream and downstream faces were sloped and the
base thickness was many times the height. In 1872 Rankine proposed that there should be
no tensile stress in a gravity dam. In 1895 Levy proposed that the compressive stress in
the material of the dam at the upstream face should be greater than the water pressure at
the corresponding depth in the reservoir.
The danger from uplift had been recognised in 1882, and the danger of sliding was
highlighted by the failure of the Austin Dam, USA. The most recent advance has been in
the application of the finite element method of analysis.
Typical Section
Example
7.1.3 Uplift
Two factors directly affect the design of a dam, the intensity of hydrostatic pressure at
various points within or under the dam and the area upon which pressure acts.
It is now accepted for design purposes that uplift pressures act on the full area of the
section. The intensity of pressure may be represented by the diagram showing the ideal
case of underflow conditions for an impermeable dam with a straight base on a
homogeneous isotropic foundation of unlimited depth and horizontal extent.
Headwater and tailwater depth are represented by h1 and h2, respectively. The concentric
semi-ellipses represent lines of flow of water passing through the foundation. The
hyperbolas, drawn normal to the lines of flow at all points, represent lines of equal
hydrostatic pressure within the foundation and at the base of the dam. This network of
flow lines and pressure lines is called a flow net. The diagram indicates an almost linear
distribution of pressure on the base, and this is the distribution for which the stability of
the dam should be checked if no drainage is provided. (or all drainage is blocked.)
Drainage is in the form of curtain of cored vertical holes
150mm or more in diameter at 3-5m spacing and located
304m from the upstream face. A gallery runs from one end to
the other of the dam, above the tailwater level. Drainage from
the holes is led away via open gutters, with measuring weirs
installed to record the flow.
It is now general to adopt a distribution of uplift pressure as
above, the value of factor k being decided having due regard
to the porosity of foundation rock and the existence of joints
and cracks therein. It is important to expend effort and money
on a drainage system to ensure satisfactory function over the
entire life of the dam.
7.1.6 Galleries
The normal function of a gallery is to provide access for inspection purposes, to monitor
the behaviour of the dam, and to carry out remedial work if required. It must therefore be
of sufficient height to permit easy movement of personnel and minor equipment,
commonly 2.13m but varied to suit construction methods. The width is usually 1.5m but
should be related to the function of the gallery. Wide opennings induce quite high local
stresses with consequent cracking of the concrete. Spiral staircases can link other
galleries, ventillation and pipes in quite a small shaft.
Circular shafts are the most desirable, with a removable floor covering drainage, but it is
harder and more expensive to form. Rectangular galleries
require greater amounts of reinforcement. Galleries also
should be well lit and ventillated.
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
7.1.7.1 Spillways
Go to Spillways Page
7.1.7.2 Power Station
At many sites a power station is embodied in the structure of the dam.
The actual behaviour of the dam will depend upon the nature of the foundation rock, any
initial stress in the rock and the effect of saturation of the rock mass.
For reasonable stress distribution the depth of the anchorage should be not less than the
width of the base of the dam. The advantages of wires over bars are:
The allowable working stress in high tensile wires is usually greater than in bars
Wire cables can be fabricated on site in one length, avoiding the use of couplers
that are necessary with bars and are a source of trouble
Cables can be accomodated in drilled holes whereas bars with couplers usually
require larger pits
Calculating loads on a prestressed dam
From point B, the downstream corner of the foundation, draw an arc AC passing
through the anchorage point A.
The position of point C will in
general be outside the upstream
foundation corner D at which the
highest tensile stresses tend to
exist, but nevertheless the line AC
will correspond approximately to
the possible crack location.
Assuming this line to correspond to
an open fissure, i.e. allowing full
hydrostatic pressure to be
developed along it, compute the
effective uplift forces U2 and U3
acting along AB and AB
respectively (for calculation of the
latter a linear decrease of uplift
pressure between A and B can be
assumed).
Computing the remaining forces
acting on the dam and the portion
of the foundation BAC, i.e. the external water pressure on the upstream face U1
and the weights of the dam, W1 and the portion ABC of the foundation W2, the
magnitude and position of the resultant force R acting on the section AB can be
determined.
Clearly if this falls outside the point B reliance must be placed on tensile stresses
acting along AB and stability is therefore endangered.
The only possibilty of resisting the overturning forces entirely by compressions is
if this reaction R falls within the length AB, even so admitting a certain amount of
cracking along this length if the reaction is close to the point B.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Introduction
Design concepts and criteria
Abutments - Stability
Shell geometry
Contraction joints
6. Prestressing
An arch dam transfers loads to the abutments and foundations both by cantilever action
and through horizontal arches, and a method of distribution was developed by Stucky in
Switzerland and the USBoR.
The assumptions made are not strictly true so the effect of each must be understood
before accepting the design.
The concrete in the dam and the rock foundations are homogeneous and isotropic;
Stresses within the elastic limit for both concrete and the rock formations and that
stress will be proportional to strain;
That plane sections before bending remain plane after bending;
That direct stresses vary linearly between the upstream and downstream faces, in
both arch and cantilever elements;
That the modulus of elasticity of concrete and the modulus of deformation of the
foundation are the same in tension as in compression;
That temperature stresses and strains are proportional to temperature changes;
That water load on the reservoir walls does not cause differential movements at
the damsite;
That foundation deformations are independent of the shape of the foundation;
That tensions are relieved by cracking so that all loads are carried by compression
and shear in the uncracked portions;
That the dam acts as a monlith, i.e. that contraction joints or slots have been
tightly grouted and that all shrinkage of the concrete has taken place before this.
Steel reinforcement can reduce the thickness of the dam but at a cost. If reinforcement
was not used then cracking in the faces of an arch dam may result from:
Excessive tensile stress due to dam geometry;
Secondary tension resulting from high compressive forces in thin members;
Secondary tensile stresses at the arch haunches and parallel to the abutments;
'Hang up' of concrete adjacent to a near vertical abutment;
Temperature effects - either due to hydration of the cement or climatic conditions.
Definition of different arch dams based on base thickness (h is height of the dam):
Thin arch
<0.2h
Medium arch
Thick arch
0.2h - 0.3h
>0.3h
Arch-gravity
>0.5h
Reinforcement is not generally required in arch-gravity dams or thick arch dams. Its use
in thin arch dams is favoured, however for a 90m high dam the cost of reinforcement will
be many millions of dollars, which could mitigate the adoption of such a dam.
Uplift - is not usually of importance in thin arch dams, but in thick arch dams provision is
made for internal drainage, as for gravity dams. If the design assumes that the concrete
will crack if tensions exceed say 0.4MPa, then it is consistent to assume that full
hydrostatic pressure can act in such cracks.
Tensile stresses - the aim of the designer is to eliminate tensile stresses, although this is
not always possible since an irregular cross-section can generate local stress
concentrations, and necessary excavation of abutments beyond the design limits will alter
the geometry of the dam, and possibly affect the degree of fixity.
The simplest form of arch dam with a vertical cylindrical upstream face and a uniformly
inclined downstream face. Used in wide valleys with the possibility of slip forming
construction methods.
7.2.4.2 Constant-Angle Arch Dam
Vertical curvature introduced so that the weight of the dam will offset vertical tensions
due to water load. Cupola dams are ideal for narrow valleys and are similar to the thin
arch dams in regard to foundation requirements.
7.2.6 Prestressing
In seeking further economies in the construction of arch dams it appears to be necessary
to consider means of applying external loads to the dam to counteract undesirable tensile
stresses that would otherwise develop. Many dams have now been built with compressive
stresses up to 8.5 MPa but to increase these stresses would most likely not be possible
without prestressing to counteract the higher tensions.
Prestressing induces vertical compressive stresses upstream at the heel of the dam and
downstream near the crest. This can be achieved by two processes, firstly by the
information of flat jacks to force open the end joints of the shell which would defect the
dam upstream, secondly by applying a radial load at the crest by means of a horizontal
cable to defect the upper part of the dam downstream.
There is considerable scope for the application for prestressing to modify stresses
within buttress dams as well as to improve their stability.
(C) Kollgaard & Chadwick, Development of Dam Engineering in the US
The relative economy of buttress dams will depend on the foundations, the cost of the
materials, and the cost and reliability of the skilled tradesmen at the particular site.
However, for a height of 20m a flat head buttress would require 40% of the concrete used
in a gravity dam.
For dams up to 150 meters high it should be possible to dimension a buttress type of dam
so that the first principal stress does not exceed 7 MPa, i.e. a stress comparable with that
in a thin arch dam.
Multiple arches are continuous monolithic structures where loss of an important structure
component could lead to loss of the entire dam. Thus these structures require better
foundations.
The majority of multiple arch dam where constructed before 1935, and although state of
the art at the time, by today's standards are deficient relative to seismic and hydrologic
conditions.
7.3.5 Buttresses
For small dams the buttresses are usually analysed as gravity blocks subject to the
inclined water load, their own weight and small uplift. A buttress can also be considered
as composed of a system of curved beams, each of which trasmits part of the water load
and its own weight to the foundations.
The columns can be proportioned to develop uniform compressive stress and curved to
avoid eccentricity of loading. In order to avoid secondary tensile stresses the buttresses of
many large dams have been built with contraction joints following the directions of the
principle stresses.
A major advantage claimed for buttress dams, including the hollow gravity dam is that
uplift forces acring on the dam are minimal. It is usual to adopt a distribution of uplift
pressure, acting on 100% of the area, as shown in the figure.
For this to be factual there must be release to atmosphere, or tailwater pressure, around
the buttress footing. Should the foundation be horizontally stratified then uplift could act
on a layer of rock only a little distance below the dam; drainage of such a foundation is
therefore essential.
Example, Muda Dam, Malaysia. Using post tensioned restressible cables fixed to the foot
of the buttress to prevent uplift and sliding.
It must be possible to destroy most of the energy of the surcharge withiut rupture
of the river bed downstream from the dam. Should excesscive erosion occur the
shearing resistance of the foundation could be lost.
7.3.8 Prestressing
Prestessing is used to minimise the quantity of concrete and counteract tensions that
would otherwise exist. It is usually used as an extra factor of safety on an otherwise
adequate structure, for example to cope under extreme flooding or earthquake conditions.
Prestressing can be applied in at least three manners to a buttress dam,
1. To 'pull down' the upstream face
2. To 'jack up' the downstream face
3. To compact the buttress on to the foundation rock to improve the resistance to
sliding of dam onrock, at the same time tightening seams to improve the
resistance to sliding within the foundations.
8.2 Terminology
Parts of an Earth Dam
Note : Not all of the above ordinarily would be incorporated in any one dam
The choice for dams with impermeable zones depends largely on the stability of the core
material. If it is strong, a near upstream location is often the most economical. However,
if the core material is weak a central location is better.
Rapid drawdown of the reservoir after a condition of steady seepage will result in a
change in the pore water pressure distribution. If the permeability of the soil is low, a
drawdown period measured in weeks may be 'rapid' in relation to the dissipation time and
the change in pore water pressure.
8.3.4.7 Rapid Drawdown in high permeability soils
The pore water pressure distribution after drawdown in soils of high permeability
decreases as pore water drains out of the soil above the drawdown level. The saturation
line moves downwards at a rate dependant upon the permeability of the soil. A series of
flow nets can be drawn for different positions of the saturation line and values of pore
water pressure obtained. The factor of safety can then be determined, using an effective
stress analysis, for any position of the saturation line.
8.3.5 Settlement
Settlement is a problem for embankment dams. It begins during construction and
continues for many years after the dam is complete. The two main causes are:
1. The migration or working of fines from between the points of contact between the
larger rock allows the particles to re-orient themselves into a more dense structure
2. The crushing of the contact points between the larger rocks under the extreme
stress developed by the embankment weight causes the rocks to develop new
points of contact which in turn crush again.
The problem can be avoided by proper compaction during construction. In earthfill dams
it may be possible to overbuild the dam, to make a, say 50% higher dam which will settle
to the correct height. Multi-stage construction also helps.
a. Settlement in section
b. Settlement - elevation
c. Irregular abutment
d. Overhanging abutment
(C) Sowers, George Earth and Rockfill Dam Engineering
Cutoff walls
Impermeable cores
The phreatic surface within a dam can be controlled by properly designed cores or walls.
For reservoir depths greater than 15 m, most engineers would place a drainage system
further inside the embankment where it will be more effective in reducing pore pressures
and controlling seepage.
8.3.7.3.3 Horizontal drainage blanket
Horizontal drainage blankets are often used for dams of moderate height.
Drainage blankets are frequently used over the downstream one-half or one-third of the
foundation area. The Bureau of Reclamation's 45 m Vega Dam is a homogeneous dam
which has been constructed with a horizontal downstream drain. Where pervious material
is scarce, the internal strip drains can be placed instead since these give the same general
effect.
8.3.7.3.4 Disadvantages of horizontal drainage blankets
An earth dam embankment tends to be more pervious in the horizontal direction than in
the vertical. Occasionally, horizontal layers tend to be much more impervious than the
average material constructed into the embankment, so the water will flow horizontally on
a relatively impervious layer and discharge on the downstream face despite the horizontal
drain.,p> Where this has occurred the downstream slope is prone to slipping and piping.
Repairs can be made by installing pervious blankets on the downstream slopes or
constructing vertical drains to connect with the horizontal blanket. Such vertical drains
are normally composed of sand and gravel.
8.3.7.3.5 Chimney drains
Chimney drains are an attempt to prevent horizontal flow along relatively impervious
stratified layers, and to intercept seepage water before it reaches the downstream slope.
Chimney drains are often incorporated in high homogeneous dams which have been
constructed with inclined or vertical chimney drains.
In some major dam projects, chimney drains have been inclined at a considerable slope,
both upstream and sometimes downstream. An upstream inclined drain can act as a
relatively thin core. In addition to controlling seepage through the dam and increasing the
stability of the downstream slope, the chimney drain is also useful in reducing pore water
pressures both during construction and following rapid reservoir drawdown.
For an effective cutoff the positioning and depth of cutoff must be essentially 'perfect'.
Since this is impossible to achieve, other methods of seepage control should be used in
conjunction with cutoffs.
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
(C) Wahlstrom, Ernest Dams, Dam Foundations and Reservoir Sites
(C) Craig R, F Soil Mechanics
D60/D10 < 20
(filter)/(filter)
8.3.9 Cores
The core may be defined as a membrane built within an embankment dam to form the
impermeable barrier, the balance of the dam being provided to ensure stability. It may be
of natural materials, clay, gravels etc. or prepared materials such as cement or asphaltic
concrete, or of metal, plastic, rubber, etc.
The thickness of the core will depend primarily on the material available, i.e. if a good
clay is available at low cost one would
tend to be liberal with the core. The
core width will often be related to the
type of foundation, the permissible
hydraulic gradient along the contact
zone.
A core of natural materials may be
central, inclined and close under the
upstream face or in some intermediate
position. A general core thickness is
one half of the height of the dam,
depending on materials available. Permeability of the compacted core should not exceed
10-5 cm/s.
The hydraulic gradient relative to the core is the ratio of maximum head of water to the
thickness of the core. Thin cores may be adequate for impermeability but it is essential to
provide well designed filters on either side. The greatest danger with thin filters is the
possibility that a 'blow through' may occur in a segregated zone.
The principal factors considered in determining core dimensions and embankment zoning
are:
Cracking of Core - cracks frequently occur in earthfill dams and in cores of rockfill dams.
Care must be taken to prevent such cracking and the Engineer must decide whether the
cracks are likely to extend and become serious or whether they are stable and can be
backfilled.
Influence of Post Construction Settlement at Crest on Cracking
Crest Settlement
Kind of cracking
(mm)
Less than 50
No cracking of dams
Equal or greater
than 50
Equal or greater
than 130
Greater than 160
Equal or greater
than 220
Equal or greater
than 350
Equal or greater
than 1400
Equal or greater
tahn 3800
8.3.10 Freeboard
A homogeneous embankment dam should never be overtopped and for preference no
permanent embankment dam should be overtopped. However, provision for freeboard
can be expensive because it requires enlargement of the dam section and hence much
more materials.
It may be convenient to pave the crest and downstream face. The level of the crest is then
determined to allow for only spray to pass over, or for the peak flood discharge to pass
over or even more frequent overtopping. However this is only used for dams under 30m
high.
An alternative method of reducing the quantity of fill is to provide a wave wall along the
crest of the embankment. See figure.
This is often governed by construction procedure and the access required either during
construction or as a permanent feature. The Japanese Code 1957 specifies crest width
(W) in terms of the height of the dam, as
W=3.6H1/3-3(m)
which would give crest widths as in the table.
Height of dam (m) Crest Width
30
50
10
70
11
100
13
200
18
1. Introduction
2. Types of Earthfill Dam
3. Materials
1. Homogenou
s
2. Central
Impervious
Core
3. Sloping
Impervious
Core
4. Hydraulic
Dams
Slopes of 1 in 1.33
are suitable for
concrete faced
rockfill dams, but
for effective
placing and
stability of an
asphaltic concrete
facing, the
upstream slope
must be about 1 in
1.7. It is significant
that men can walk
on this slope
without ropes, but
on a slope of 1 in
1.33 safety ropes
are essential. An
asphaltic concrete
allows for more
movement due to
settlement that for a
rigid concrete deck.
The location and inclination will depend on the materials used. It has been suggested that
maximum stability would result from locating it nearer the upstream face with the angle
less than a right angle.
Drainage of the core takes place in two ways, some of the water percolates horizontally
into the more pervious shell. The remainder moves upward to the surface, allowing the
centre of the dam to subside. The downward movement eventually develops arching in
the core and prevents its full consolidation.
8.4.3 Materials
The thoroughness with which borrow areas are investigated can have a major effect on
the cost of the dam. The best information is derived from trenches cut by bulldozer. Two
questions must be asked;
1. Is the material acceptable?
2. How will it be excavated?
The materials must be tested in the laboratory and must be representative of what would
be used in the final dam.
When selecting earth for a core or for a homogeneous dam, one must consider its
permeability, resistance to piping, shear strength, flexibility and resistance to cracking.
The water content will affect each of these differently; testing and judgment are required
to determine the optimum moisture content for the particular soil in the particular part of
the dam.
1. Introduction
2. Types of Rockfill Dam
3. Advantages of Rockfill
Construction
4. Materials
5. Earth Core Rockfill Dams
6. Decked Rockfill Dams
Like an earth dam it is composed of fragmental materials, with each particle independent
of the others. The mass stability is developed by the friction and inter-reaction of one
particle on another rather than by any cementing agent that binds the particles together.
Upstream core
Rock with a thin
membrane or
diaphragm to
hold water
Central thin
membrane
Upstream thin
membrane or deck
Unbonded or dry
masonry
Dam with rubble
retaining zone
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
Rockfill is particularly suitable when there is no satisfactory earth available and when a
plentiful supply of sound rock is at hand. The rockfilling is especially adapted to
construction during wet and cold weather and permits continuous work under weather
conditions that would not permit earth or concrete construction.
Very rapid constructions are possible with rockfill because of its adaptability to bad
weather and because the process of filling does not have to be interrupted for rolling or
other separate compaction operations.
The rockfill dam with an upstream diaphragm is very well adapted to stage construction.
The dam height can be increased merely by dumping more rock behind the impervious
diaphragm without interfering with or encroaching on the reservoir. The dam is then
made water-tight by continuing the impervious face upward. The stage construction
concept is also suitable for cofferdamming, as the first part of the dam serves as a
cofferdam which protects the remainder of the foundation for further construction.
Shale
Gneiss
Slate
Basalt
Schist
Sandstone
Siltstone
Dense limestone
Porous limestone
Dolomite
Chalky limestone
Quartzite
Massive Schist
Shear Strength - Large size triaxial or direct shear tests are the best method for
determining strength.
Steel Face - consists of large welded panels, connected by flexible joints to allow for
expansion and contraction and any displacement of the plates relative to the face of the
rockfill. To help reduce corrosion, coats of coal-tar epoxy resin preparation and
supplementary cathodic protection are provided below water level, giving about a 50 year
life.
Cement Concrete Face - since cement has a very long life, it is an obvious watertight
membrane on rockfill dams. Details of typical facing are shown in the figure.
The facing can be tied to the dam in two ways, either poured directly onto the rubble
transition zone.
A mortar bed is
initially placed
which penetrates
into the rubble a
few centimeters.
This is
immediately
covered with the
concrete to form
a monolithic
mass which
extends into the
rubble and is
thus bonded to
the dam.
Or, ribs are
placed in the bottom of the slab by forcing grooves in the facing. The ribbed support,
however, is unnecessary if the bonding with the backing is effective.
Two types of facing have been used.
One is a thin monolithic slab of concrete with no joints. It is sufficiently flexible to
conform to movements in the backing without failure and the tensile forces are
distributed by the reinforcements so that numerous small cracks develop rather than any
major failures.
The second type, used in most concrete faced dams, has a facing which consists of
monolithic slabs, 10 to 30 sqm each. The concrete thickness is largely a matter if
experience. Only nominal reinforcement is required, about 0.5% concrete area in each
direction. Water tightness is ensured by copper water stops.
9.0 SPILLWAY
CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION
2. THE HANDLING OF
FLOOD WATERS
3. UNCONTROLLED
SPILLWAYS
4. GATED SPILLWAYS
5. SPILLWAY CHUTES
6. ENERGY DISSIPATION
7. 3D FE SIMULATION
IMAGES
Bottom spillway
Advantage - provision can usually be made for its
use for the passage of floods during construction.
Disadvantage - once built its capacity is finite
wheras the forecasting is indefinite.
- a single outlet can be blocked by flood debris
Siphon Spillway
Disadvantage - construction is expensive
- sudden appearance of flood water
downstream
- large flood debris can block outlet
Gates or no gates - many Engineers are not inclined to place full reliance on effective
operation of gates at the time of a major flood. The provision of gated spillways is usually
economic, whatever height of dam the cost remains roughly the same and is only
dependent on the magnitude of the flood provision. The possibility of maloperation can
not be overlooked and their accessibility is important. If proper gate operation can not be
guaranteed then the effect of flood water passing over the top of gates must be
investigated. Hydraulic gates are most reliable, followed by mechanically and electrically
operated gates.
Spillway gates may therefore be installed:
It is common practice to choose the design head for the nappe as 75%-80% of the
maximum expected head. When the spillway so designed does pass the greater flows,
pressures lower than atmosphere will occur over the crest, causing problems associated
with cavitation.
The flow over a spillway gives rise to self-excited vibration, in which three coupled
elements are involved; the jet, the overflow crest and the air cushion between dam and
jet. This can be avoided by using splitters on the crest.
With the reservoir at a particular level the discharge over the spillway will be
proportional to its length. It is possible to introduce variations in the plan shape of the
spillway crest so that the effective length is increased, for example, rectangular 'duckbill'
spillway or triangular sections.
In narrow gorges it is often expedient to adopt the glory-hole spillway. The design of a
glory hole spillway is involved since it includes flow over the weir, free or forced flow in
the shaft, flow around the bend and flow in the discharge tunnel. Since velocities are very
high at the bottom of the shaft damage to lining is likely to occur. The main disadvantage
with the glory-hole spillway is that beyond a certain surcharge the discharge only
increases slowly with increased head. It does not provide any substantial margin for
underestimation of the maximum flood.
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
The decision for gates is more often economic, but sometimes topography may be the
controlling factor. Gates use mechanical devices and are liable to malfunction, however
they can be submerged and can operate at any head and are useful to pass floods during
construction or to control a filling reservoir.
The Engineer is concerned with the loads concentrated on certain parts of the dam by the
system for supporting and operating the gates. This is very important when one gate is
closed and the other open. Large gates require special formwork, complicated
reinforcement and probably prestressing of anchorages which puts the price up.
The minimum length is determined by the debris which could be expected to flow
through the gate. The location chosen must be easily accessible during normal operation
and during extreme floods. The engineer must be responsible for the procedures for
operation of the gates. Automatic gates may be required in remote locations however the
expense and reliability issues do not favour their installation.
Types of Gate - the trend is towards simplicity.
Vertical-lift Gates
Flapgates
Vulnerable to vandelism
Availability of replacement parts in the future
Possibility of downstream flood due to malfunction
Lined Chutes - at most sites a concrete lined chute is required. The chute width is
determined by the length and arrangement of the spillway crest, the total energy in the
water and the economical relation between the width (including excavation costs) and the
height of the side walls of the chute. The height of the chute wall is also important
because the water could erode the side slopes.
At the bottom of the chute the water may enter a
dissipator basin, or be directed around a flip bucket so
that much of its energy is dissipated in air. Vibration will
cause movement of the slabs and even failure of them. It
is essential that slabs are anchored to the rock with steel
rods. The figure shows the correct way of laying slabs so
they do not lift up.
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
Free Overfall - energy dissipated in a downstream coffer dam stilling basin unless
overflow is very high, say 80m&SUP3;/s/m or the height of the overfall exceeds 100m.
For example the scour below a free overfall at Kariba Dam is over 50m.
Flip Bucket Spillways - the purpose of this type is to throw the water well clear of the
structure. The jet of a ski jump spillway leaves horizontally wheras the jet of a flip bucket
is deflected upwards to induce disintegration in the air. The spray produced can cause
damage to the countryside and may adversely affect nearby electrical installations.
A. Roller Basin
B. Deflector Bucket
C. Flip Bucket
D. Non-radial spillway and
sluice buckets
E. Schoklitsch dissipator
Safety
Specifications
Plant
Cost and its control
Safety - with the ever increasing height of dams there is greater need for precautions,
especially against falling objects or persons. Double curvature structures have made
access and movement of personnel difficult. All site personnel must be alert at all time for
the accidents that might happen. The insurance is regular meetings of staff and
representatives of the work force, where knowledge and experience can be pooled especially in the planning stage of an unusual operation.
Specifications
For all types of dam, the specification should cover the following:
The required date for completion, with a schedule to indicate dates for completion
of stages of the work;
The degree of responsibility to be accepted by the Contractor in the dimensioning
of diversion works, for losses due to floods, for river pollution and general care of
the river;
Clearing of the site and works areas;
The extent of foundation preparation required and the sharing of responsibility for
unforeseen conditions;
Protection of the environment, disposal of soil, rehabilitation of borrow areas,
beautification, etc.;
Premliminary work that will be done by the Owner and the degree of
responsibility accepted by the Owner for consequences of such work.
Plant - The cost of purchasing plant and its operation are major items. On a dam
involving 2 million cum of concrete, the purchase and operation might each represent 1820% of the direct cost of the dam. For an embankment dam this may be of the order of
25-35%. It is therefore important to select the correct plant to achieve optimum cost.
The specification for some major contracts calls for the use of only new plant and the
main advantage is that suitable plant can be matched to the particular job. Material
transporters can be matched to quarry equipment for example. For compaction of
embankments - soil or rock, it is important to select the most appropiate equipment and
this can be best determined by means of a trial embankment. It is also necessary to have a
supply of spare parts since many sites are remote. Plant should be simple and rugged, and
preferably modular to simplify the replacement of parts.
Consistently high quality of materials is the objective of all dam builders and to sacrifice
quality for a doubtful saving in cost is poor engineering.
Cost and its Control - Safety, Time and Cost are interrelated and usually conflicting.
Safety is always paramount, and hence time and cost directly relate to quality and degree
of perfection required. There is an optimum time for any operation and beyond this time
will incur extra costs. Cost is made up of direct charges for manpower and materials, plus
overheads and interest. Interest is out of the control of the Engineer.
With regard to the direct charges, the selection of the type of dam will be the major
decision and this might well be influenced by local conditions rather than mathematical
economies.
For a concrete dam, for example, the dissection of costs may be;
Materials
25%
Formwork
20%
Plant Purchase
19%
Plant Operation
19%
3%
Concrete Treatment
3%
For an embankment dam, for example. the dissection of costs may be;
Quarry Operation
30-40%
Haulage
20-30%
15-20%
Regardless of the type of dam, it is necessary to de-water the site for final geological
inspection, for foundation improvement and prepartation, and for the first stage of dam
construction. The magnitude, method and cost of river diversion works will depend upon
the cross-section of the valley, the bed material in the river, the type of dam, the expected
hydrological conditions during the time required for this phase of the work, and finally
upon the consequences of failure of any part of the temporary works.
At most sites it will be
necessary to move the
river whilst part of the
dam is constructed; this
part will incorporate
either permanent or
temporary openings
through which the river
will be diverted in the
second stage. If the first
diversion is not large
enough the initial stages
of construction will be
inundated, if the second
stage outlets are too
small, the whole works
will be flooded.
At some sites there is a distinct seasonal pattern of river flows and advantage can be
taken of such conditions but noting that Nature is random.
Construction of the Hendrik Verwoerd Dam, South Africa required a sophisticated
arrangement of cofferdams. An approach was developed based on the frequency and
distribution of floods that could occur over a five year period of construction. The
following is an extract of the original detailed specification:
First Stage (A)
Construction from each bank of the river of groynes a short distance upstream of
the dam, to alter the direction of flow and thus to move the low water channel
towards the left bank of the river at the dam site.
Construction of a semi circular concrete arch cofferdam on the right bank of the
river.
De-watering of this cofferdam and excavation within it for the main dam blocks,
the proportion of the overspill apron and the sections of the mid channel
cofferdams.
Concreting of the dam blocks, numbers 14 to 28 up to a minimum level of 1200
meters, the portions of the overspill apron and of the mid channel cofferdams
within this cofferdam. In blocks of the dam constructed on this stage, temporary
openings were formed through which the river was later diverted.
Second stage (B) & (C) Construction of a semi circular arch cofferdam on the left bank of the river.
Construction of the flanking portions of each of the upstream and downstream
mid channel concrete arch cofferdams which cross the river upstream and
downstream of the central section of the dam.
Excavation of a channel along the right bank, leading to the temporary openings
through the dam, demolition of portions of the right bank cofferdam to permit the
diversion of the river through the temporary openings and such clearing out of the
right bank diversion channel as may be necessary.
The cutting of a channel through the portion of the right bank groyne adjacent to
the bank to form an entrance to the diversion channel described above.
The placing of rockfill to connect together the right and left bank groynes so as to
divert the river flow into the right bank diversion channel, thereby cutting down
the velocity of the water in the vicinity of the mid river cofferdams.
Completion of the upstream mid river cofferdam completion of the downstream
mid river cofferdam.
Placing of spoil, excavated from the works, in the flood channel on the left bank
upstream of the dam to prevent the river flooding into the area to the protected by
the mid river cofferdams.
Third stage (C) & (D) & (E) De-watering of the left bank cofferdam and excavation for the dam blocks and the
portion of the overspill apron within this cofferdam.
Concreting of the dam blocks numbers 9 to 27 to a minimum level of 1206
meters.
Demolition of the left bank cofferdam.
Demolition of the remaining portion of the right bank cofferdam within the areas
protected by the mid channel cofferdams.
The de-watering of the mid channel cofferdam and excavation within it for dam
block numbers 1 to 7 and 2 to 12 and portion of the overspill apron.
Concreting of dam blocks 1 to 7 and 2 to 12 to such levels that the contraction
joints in the lower part of the dam up to gallery can be grouted.
Concreting within the mid channel cofferdams of the portion of the overspill
apron downstream of blocks 1 to 7 and 2 to 12.
Cooling of the concrete and grouting of the dam construction joints.
Diversion can also be achieved by means of a tunnel, which depends on the nature of the
rock and depth of weathering and should be far away from the dam itself to not interferre
with the foundations. The tunnel also should be large enough to avoid the possibility of
job jams.
(C) Thomas, Henry H. The Engineering of Large Dams
Aggregate Production
Concrete Handling, Placing and Consolidation
Formwork
Built in items
Cooling of Concrete
Economical Construction
Built in items - The installation of built in items is always a major source of delay on
construction. Advance planning is required with close attention to detail. The
complication of installation of reinforcement, prestressing, gate hinges, drainage wells
and gate wells are common on spillways. There has been a tendency to use precast
concrete units for galleries to save time, however this prevents the inspection of the
concrete in the interior of the dam. The simplest method of forming galleries is vertical
formwork extending the full height of a lift. When this is removed, precast concrete
beams or slabs can be laid over the opening and concreted into the next lift.
Reinforcement is usually required above and below rectangular galleries and this is best
installed as prefabricated units.
Cooling of Concrete - The method of cooling concrete during the first few days after
placing can be of the utmost importance if cracking is to avoided. It is essential to give
attention to both internal and external factors that may induce cracking;
Temperature rise, which will depend upon the heat of hydration of the cement, the
quantity of cement per cubic metre, the concrete placing temperature and the rate
of construction;
Heat dissipation, which will depend upon the conditions of exposure - including
the temperature of the underlying concrete and the thermal diffusivity of the
concrete. If it is considered necessary to heat the underlying concrete the rate of
rise of its temperature should not exceed 2 Celsius per day;
The effects of restraint from a cold surface, i.e. rock or concrete say 14 days old,
it will depend upon the temperature gradient which can be reduced by placing
concrete in half lifts for a predetermined height, say 3m above the cold surface;
The arrangement of cooling pipes - at 0.25 and 0.75 of the height of the lift may
be more efficient than on the top of the old lift and at mid-height of the new lift.
The horizontal spacing will depend upon the rate of heat removal required and the
temperature of the cooling water (i.e. river water of varying temperature or
refrigerated water);
General
Phases of Construction
Quarry development and Haul Roads
Material Compaction
Earth Dams
Hydraulic Fill Dams
Rockfill Dams
General - Considerable economy can often accrue if there is 'Progressive Design' - the
aim is to provide design flexibility to cover the probability that materials will not be in
true accord with samples tested nor will foundations conform to assumptions.
Phases of Construction 1. Evaluation of plans, specifications, basic requirement, and features of the site.
2. Planning and scheduling of the job
3. Making the site ready
Water to aid compaction of rockfill - Wet rock will compact better under rolling
than dry rock. Firstly, the friction is less between the rocks and secondly many
rocks lose strength when wetted so that crushing occurs at points of contact
during the third or fourth pass of the rollers.
Provision for Instrumentation - This will inconvenience construction and failure
of the equipment to work will represent a financial loss for the cost of its purchase
and installation, and little can be done about it after the dam is built. Vital
information about the behaviour of the dam will be lost if care is not taken in its
installation.
Earth Dams The most important variables affecting construction of earthfill embankments are the
distribution of soils, method of placement, water content, and compaction.
Soils may be classified by engineering properties into various groups. These groups fall
into two main divisions, the course grains and the fine grains. Course grains are those
larger than a number 200 sieve size and include gravels and sands. Fine grains are smaller
than a number 200 sieve size and include silts and clays. Course grain material is used for
the outer zones of an earthfill embankment, and fine grain material is used for the
impervious core or central portion of the dam. A sieve analysis test will determine the
percent of material passing a given sieve size.
The soil material must be placed in horizontal layers not more than 15 cm. thick after
being compacted. The soil should be homogeneous and free from lenses, pockets, organic
material, or other imperfections. Prior to placement, the material should have the
optimum moisture content required for the purpose of compaction. The optimum
moisture content, or the water content that produces the maximum density, may be
obtained by a laboratory Proctor test.
Good compaction of a cohesive soil reduces permeability and increases shear strength
and the stability of the dam. Compaction equipment includes sheep-foot rollers,
pneumatic rollers, and hand tampers. The dry density of the soil should not be less than
95 percent of standard Proctor test.
Hydraulic Fill Dams Excavation - dredging, with hydraulic giants or dry with the aid of a hog box. The choice
of the methods depends on the cohesion of the soil and on the topography of the site.
Transport - The materials are transported in suspension in pipelines. Typical mixes are
from 10-20% solids by volume or 25-50% solids by weight.
Fill Construction - To start the fill two parallel dikes are constructed at or just inside the
embankment toes as shown in the figure. Often these are the permanent rock toes
themselves but they can also be made of rolled pervious earth. The pipelines (called
beach pipes) are laid on top of these dikes or are carried on low trestles just above them.
Outlets are provided to allow full discharge of the pipe. In filling, several adjacent outlets
are allowed to discharge into the area between the dikes. The coarse materials settle close
to the discharge points while the finer ones are carried to the centre, still in suspension. A
pool is created between the 'beaches'. The core level is always below the beach level
because the rate of sedimentation there is much slower.
The width of the core is controlled by the percentage of fines in the borrow soil and the
level of water in the core pool. At the start of each 1-2m lift, the level in the core pool is
raised to provide a width somewhat greater than the maximum limit of core in the shell.
Filling commences when the coarse materials settling on the beach above the pool and
encroaching on the pool limits. As the beach rises the core pool narrows and becomes
deeper. Filling is stopped when the pool width is close to the minimum permissible core
width. A core zone with jagged edges, as shown, is the result.
Re-working the Fill - It is seldom that the beach will conform exactly to the desired dam
shape since the deposition will vary with the distance from the outlet. Draglines are
placed on the outer edges of the shell to reshape the dam to the proper dimensions. A new
pair of dikes, if necessary, is built and the process is repeated.
From time to time fingers of core develop into the shell beyond the established limits.
These are removed by digging them out, and replacing them with the shell material.
Zones of shell material in the core are likewise equally dangerous. These develop from
slides into an excessively deep core pool or as a result of too small a proportion of fines
available from the borrow pits. A small hydraulic dredge is used to excavate the core
material and discharge the mix back into the core pool so that the coarse materials will be
widely dispersed.
Reworking the shell also tends to reduce the loose structure which often develops when
fine sands are deposited out of water. Such loose cohesionless soils are potential sources
of failures and are real hazards in hydraulic dam construction.
Rockfill Dams -
Pore Pressures - Excessive compactive effort relative to the particular material may
induce pore pressures in the earthfill greater than uplift pressures that will result from
filling of the reservoir. This would mean a lower factor of safety during construction than
when the dam is in operation. If this is not acceptable then extra money must be spent to
ensure slope stability during construction. On the other hand, a slope slide during
construction would not compare in importance to a slide in a completed dam. It may
therefore be a justifiable risk for the short term. If this were to be done then it would be
mandatory to monitor pore pressures so that it would be known definitely when the
design factor of safety was established. There is justifaction for reduction of construction
pore pressures especially when the height reaches 150m for example.
An advantage of the thin core is that construction pore pressures should normally drop by
50% by the end of the construction period. In thick cores, the pressures may remain for
years.
Dumped Rockfill - the main body of fill is placed by dumping. The initial part of the fill
is dumped from clamshell cranes, cableways, or from ramps on the abutments to form a
mound or bank. The remainder of the fill is dumped from the top of this mound, allowing
the rock to fall down the sloping surface. The combined effect of sliding, tumbling and
impact casue the pieces to become tightly wedged together. Not more than 15% fines
should be in the dumped rockfill, since they prevent good compaction and make drainage
of water difficult.
Rolled Rockfill - if the rock is soft and breaks readily into pieces less than a third of a
cubic metre, a rolled rockfill can be used. It is placed in layers and then rolled by heavy
rubber tyred rollers and heavy vibrating rollers. Four to eight passes are required for
compaction.
Reshaping the Fill - the dumped rockfill assumes side slopes of the angle of repose. If a
flatter slope is required it can be formed by introducing horizontal berms as required.
QUESTIONS
Multiple Choice Question 1
When the crest chord-height ratio is under 3 and the rock is capable of withstanding
high pressures, not being able to fail by shearing, which form of dam is most suitable?
1.
Rockfill Dams
2.
3.
Buttress Dams
4.
5.
Gravity Dams
6.
7.
Analysis assumes that two major kinds of deflections or dislocations affect the dam and
its abutments. Pressure of water on the upstream face of the dam and uplift pressures
from seepage beneath the dam tend to rotate the dam about its base by cantilever action.
In addition the pressure of reservoir water tends to flatten the arch and push it
downstream. These dams are thin, curved structures commonly containing reinforcement,
either steel rods or prestressed steel cables the volume of concrete required is much less
than for gravity and gravity arch dams, but the competency of bedrock in foundations and
abutments to sustain or resist loads must be of a high order.
Tectonic Effect
2.
Seismic Effect
3.
Freeboard Effect
4.
Seiche Effect
Correct Answer
1.
Auxiliary Spillway
2.
Bottom Spillway
3.
Siphon Spillway
4.
Fuse-plug Spillway
Correct Answer
Worked Question - 1
Q. Find the Shear Friction Factor and the factor of Safety against overturning for
the dams section below:
Load
Vertical
Horizontal
Moment Arm
Moments
kN
kN
kNm
Water
+4500
10
+45,000
Sediment
+55
1.67
+92
Self Weight A
+2,376
19.5
-46,332
Self Weight B
+6,480
12
-77,760
Uplift a
-293
20
+5,860
Uplift b
-315
19.5
+6,143
Uplift c
-945
12
+11,340
Sum V = +7,303
Sum H = +4,555
REFERENCES
1. Anon. 1981c. Codes of Practice on Site investigations, BS. 5930. British
Standards Institution, London.
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GLOSSARY
Abutment - That portion of the foundation, especially in the sides of a valley, which is in
contact with a dam. Also, that portion of a dam which makes contact with and abuts
against the foundation at the sides of a valley.
Active Basin - The portion of a reservoir basin above a given elevation which can be
used for power generation or other beneficial purpose.
Active Capacity - The reservoir capacity normally usable for storage and regulation of
reservoir inflows to meet established reservoir operating requirements. It extends from
the highest of (l) the top of exclusive flood control capacity, (2) the top of joint use
capacity, or (3) the top of active conservation capacity, to the top of inactive capacity. It is
also the total capacity less the sum of the inactive and dead capacities.
Appurtenant feature - Any physical feature other than the dam itself which contributes
to the operation of the dam and reservoir for its intended purpose or purposes.
Arch-Gravity Dam - An arch dam which is only slightly thinner than a gravity dam.
Artificial abutment - An abutment, usually constructed from concrete, to sustain the
lateral thrusts of an arch dam. Such abutments are constructed where existing topographic
or bedrock geologic conditions are not adequate for the design of the dam.
Axis of dam - A reference line used for control of surveying during construction of a
dam. Commonly the axis defines the location of the upstream portion of the crest of a
dam, whether the crest is straight or curved.
Base Widthor Thickness - The maximum thickness or width of the dam measured
horizontally between upstream and downstream faces and normal to the axis or centerline
crest of the dam, but excluding projections for outlets, etc. In general. the term thickness
is used for gravity or arch dams, and width is used for other dams.
Bedrock - The natural, more or less undisturbed rock in the foundation of a dam.
Blanket - A thin blanket or inclined layer of material forming a part of an embankment
dam.
Block - Many concrete dams are built in sections or blocks. A section of a concrete dam
emplaced within forms or contained between upstream and downstream forms and
adjacent sections of the dam is a block.
Borrow area - The source area for natural materials used in dam construction
Bucket - The curved bottom portion of a spillway. The bucket deflects upward and
outward the water flowing down the inclined surface of the spillway.
Bulkhead - A structure built to resist rock pressure or to shut off water flow, as in a
tunnel.
Buttress - A thin, erect, tabular concrete supporting member used in construction of slab
and buttress dams. Also a projecting structure providing lateral support to a rock face or a
portion of a dam.
Cableway - A steel cable used in placing concrete in a dam and to transport excavated
materials and construction materials over and above a dam.
Chute - An inclined open trough or lined canal through which water is discharged.
Cofferdam - A temporary dam designed to contain and divert water away from the
excavation for a dam or other facility during construction. In some embankment dams the
cofferdam is subsequently incoporated into the main, larger structure.
Clay blanket - a thin layer of impervious clay placed upstream from an embankment
dam to reduce or eliminate seepage beneath the dam.
Compacted fill - Material in an embankment dam that has been compressed by rolling
or impact vibration.
Control Tower - A tower commonly constructed a short distance upstream from a dam
and within the reservoir to control flow of water from the reservoir into the conduits and
tunnels.
Control works - Facilities such as valves and gates designed to control flow from the
reservoir through, voer, or around a dam.
Construction joint - A joint between adjacent blocks of concrete. Also, a joint, usually
nearly horizontal, between a leyer of concrete and the next one placed over it during
construction.
Core trench - The trench excavated below the general level of the base of an
embankment dam and filled with the impervious material used to construct the core.
Dam - A barrier, either natural or artificially constructed, that impounds or diverts the
flow of water, especially in a water course. Also, the body of water confined by a dam.
Dead Capacity - The reservoir capacity from which stored water cannot be evacuated
by gravity.
Dead storage - Water in the lower elevations of a reservoir that is unavailable for use or
diversion.
Design basis earthquake (DBE) - The earthquake which the structure is required to
safely withstand with repairable damage. Those systems and components important to
safety must remain functional and/or operable. For design purposes, the intended use of
this earthquake loading is for economic design of structures or components whose
damage or failure would not lead to catastrophic loss. For most usage in Reclamation, the
DBE is defined to have a 90% probability of nonoccurrence in a 50-year-exposure period,
which is equivalent to a recurrence interval of 474 years. Economic considerations for
specific projects may lead to consideration of other values.
Dike - A long, low embankment. The height is usually less than four to five meters and
the lenghth more than ten or fifteen times the maximum height.
Diversion Capacity - The flow which can be passed through the canal headworks at a
dam under normal head.
Double Curvature Arch Dam - An arch dam which is curved in plan and elevation,
with undercutting of the heel and a downstream overhang near the crest of downstream
cantilever.
Drain - A facility for collecting and diverting water that seeps through a dam or through
the foundation of a dam.
Drainage holes - Drilled holes designed to intercept seepage water within or beneath a
dam.
Earth fill - Material consisting of earth excavated from a nearby borrow area used in the
construction of an embankment dam. The term is imprecisely defined but is generally
applied to materials containing abundant soil and clayey substances with or without rocky
components.
Exclusive Flood Control Capacity - The reservoir capacity assigned to the sole
purpose of regulating flood inflows to reduce possible damage downstream. In some
instances, the top of exclusive flood control capacity is above the maximum controllable
water surface elevation.
Fish ladder - A structure built at the side or up the face of a dam to enable migration of
fish upstream and downstream.
Flash board - A wood plank or a steel member place at the top of a spillway to increase
the storage capacity of a reservoir.
Flat Slab or Slab and Buttress - A buttress dam with buttresses which support the flat
slab of reinforced concrete which forms the upstream face.
Foundation - The surface and the natural material beneath it on which a dam and
appurtenant features rest.
Gate - A movable facility for controlling flow of water over a dam through a spillway.
Gravity Dam - A dam constructed of concrete and/or masonry which relies on its mass
for stability.
Gravity tunnel - A tunnel through with water flows without restraint under the force of
gravity.
Grout - A mixture of water and cement or a chemical solution that is forced by pumping
into foundation rocks or joints in a dam to prevent seepage and to increase strength.
Grout blanket - A grouted zone in the shallow portion of a foundation which has been
treated to improve its strength and reduce its permeability.
Grout cap - A cap, usually consisting of concrete, through which grouting operations of
foundations are performed.
Grout curtain - A zone in bedrock beneath a dam and parallel to its length that has been
injected with grout to stop or reduce seepage beneath a dam.
Gut - A term used for the cableway above a dam used for transportation of construction
materials.
Headrace conduit - A conduit that conducts water under a head to a valve or into a
power generating unit.
Headrace tunnel - A pressure tunnel which conducts water from the reservoir to control
work and ultimately into a power generating unit.
Hydraulic Height - Height to which the water rises behind the dam, and is the
difference between the lowest point in the original streambed at the axis or the centerline
crest of the dam and the maximum controllable water surface.
Impervious material - Material, usually rich in clay and/or silt size particles that resists
penetration by water.
Inactive basin - That portion of the bottom of a reservoir that contains water that can
not be put to beneficial use for drained from the reservoir.
Inactive Capacity - The reservoir capacity exclusive of and above the dead storage
from which the stored water is normally not available because of operating agreements or
physical restrictions. Under abnormal conditions, such as a shortage of water or a
requirement for structural repairs, water may be evacuated from this space.
Inflow Design Flood (IDF) - The flood used to design and/or modify a specific dam
and its appurtenant works; particularly for sizing the spillway and outlet works, and for
determining surcharge storage requirements. The IDF is equated to less than the Probable
Maximum Flood.
Intake - The entrance to any water transporting facility such as a conduit or a tunnel.
Intake structure - The structure built at the intake.
Joint Use Capacity - The reservoir capacity assigned to flood control purposes during
certain periods of the year and to conservation purposes during other periods of the year.
Left abutment - That portion of the dam that makes contact with it foundation on the left
side of a valley as you from upstream.
Left or Right Designation - The designation of left or right is made with the observer
looking downstream.
Length of Dam - The distance, measured along the axis of the dam at the level of the
top of the main body of the dam or the roadway surface on the crest, from abutment
contact to abutment contact.
Massive Head Buttress - A buttress dam in which the buttress is greatly enlarged on the
upstream side to span the gap between buttresses.
Maximum Controllable Water Surface - The highest reservoir water surface elevation
at which gravity flows from the reservoir can be completely shut off.
Maximum credible earthquake (MCE) - The largest earthquake that a fault or other
seismic source could produce under the current tectonic setting. The seismic evaluation
criteria determines which faults or seismic sources are assigned an MCE.
Maximum Water Surface - The highest acceptable water surface elevation with all
factors affecting the safety of the structure considered. It is the highest water surface
elevation resulting from a computed routing of the inflow design flood through the
reservoir under established operating criteria. This surface elevation is also the top of the
surcharge capacity.
Medium-thick Arch - An arch dam with a base thickness to structural height ratio
between 0.2 and 0.3.
Multiple Arch Dam - A buttress dam, the upstream part of which comprises a series of
arches.
Natural frequency (f) - The natural frequencies of a structure are the frequencies of free
vibration. Free vibration is vibration that occurs in the absence of forced vibration. In a
structure undergoing vibration, a mode of vibration is a characteristic pattern (shape)
assumed by the structure in which the motion of every particle is simple harmonic motion
with the same frequency. The fundamental mode of vibration of a structure is the mode
having the lowest natural frequency.
Natural period of vibration (T) - The period of vibration of a a structure is the time
required for one cycle of the simple harmonic motion in one of these characteristic
patterns (shapes). T = 1/f.
Normal Water Surface - The elevation at the top of the active conservation capacity.
The maximum elevation to which the reservoir may rise under normal operating
conditions exclusive of flood control storage. (The term is no longer used by the Service
but is offered because of its prior usage.)
Operating basis earthquake (OBE) - The earthquake that the structure must safely
withstand with no damage. All systems and components necessary to the uninterrupted
functioning of the project are designed to remain operable during the ground motions
associated with the OBE. This includes the dam, appurtenant structures, electrical and
mechanical equipment, relays, spillway gates, and valves. For most usage in the Bureau
of Reclamation, the OBE is specified to have a 90% probability of nonoccurrence in a 25year-exposure period. This is equivalent to a recurrence interval of 237 years. Economic
considerations for specific projects may lead to consideration of other values.
Outlet - Any facility, such as the exit of a tunnel, from which water issues by controlled
flow.
Outlet Works - A combination of structures and equipment required for the safe
operation and control of water released from the reservoir to serve various purposes, i.e.,
regulate stream flow and quality; release floodwater; and provide irrigation, municipal,
and/or industrial water. Included in the outlet works are the intake structure, conduit,
control house-gates, regulating gate or valve, gate chamber, and stilling basin.
Parapet - Usually construed to be a low protective wall along the crest of a dam.
Pendulum Shaft - A narrow vertical opening in a dam used for surveying control during
structures and subsequently for occupation of deflections of the dam under load.
Penstock - A conduit, commonly steel pipe, leading from the reservoir to a power
generating plant downstream from the reservoir.
Pervious Material - Material through which water flows with relative ease. Contrasted
with impervious material.
Phreatic Surface - As the groundwater percolates down the acquifer becomes saturated.
The surface of saturation os referred to as the groundwater table or the phreatic surface. It
falls during dry spells and rises in rainy spells.
Piling - Elongate, post like steel or concrete members or steel sheets driven into a dam
foundation to reduce or eliminate seepage.
Power Intake - The intake to a conduit or tunnel which leads to a power generating unit.
Power Plant - The facility constructed at or near the downstream face of a dam to
generate hydroelectric power.
Pressure Tunnel - A tunnel which transmits water under moderate to high pressure.
Prestressing - Strengths of rocks in foundation and elements within concrete dams are
increased by installation of steel rocks or steel cables which are injected to tensioning.
The procedure that is followed is called prestressing.
Purge tunnel - A tunnel that is used to much more frequently used tunnels of
obstructions or deposits of sediment.
Relief Well - An excavated well below a dam to collect seepage water in the foundation.
Reservoir - In the present context a reservoir is a basin, usually artificially created, that
impounds and stores water.
Right abutment - The abutment to the right as observed from a point upstream from a
dam.
Rock blanket - A layer of rocks placed on the face of a dam to prevent wave erosion of
deeper materials.
Rock bolt - A threaded steel rod placed in a drilled hole and tensioned to increase
strength of rock masses.
Saddle Dike - A small dam built in a topographic low in the periphery of a reservoir
basin.
Sheet Pilling - Plates of steel driven into the foundation of a dam to reduce or eliminate
seepage beneath a dam.
Sluiced fill - Fill usually clayey, placed in an embankment dam by running water.
Spillway - The structure on or at the side of a dam that contains and guides the flow of
the excess water supplied to a reservoir. Spillways inside the reservoir are called glory
holes and consist of a vertical shaft a tunnel which exits below the dam.
Spoil area - An area used to dispose of materials that are unwanted or surplus in dam
construction.
Stilling basin - A basin downstream from a dam that receives the discharge from tunnels
or conduits or overflow from a spillway.
Structural Height - Distance between the lowest point in the excavated foundation
(excluding narrow fault zones) and the top of dam. The structural height of a concrete
dam is the vertical distance between the top of the dam and lowest point of the excavated
foundation area, excluding narrow fault zones. The structural height of an embankment
[earth or rockfill) dam is the vertical distance between the top of the embankment and the
lowest point in the excavated foundation area, including the main cutoff trench, if any,
but excluding small trenches or narrow backfilled areas. The top elevation does not
include the camber, crown, or roadway surfacing.
Surcharge Capacity - The reservoir capacity provided for use in passing the inflow
design flood through the reservoir. It is the reservoir capacity between the maximum
water surface elevation and the highest of the following elevations (1) top of exclusive
flood control capacity, (2) top of joint use capacity, or (3) top of active conservation
capacity.
Surge tank or shaft - A vertical shaft above a pressure tunnel that provides equal
pressures at the tunnel level in response to sudden pressure changes caused by increasing
or decreasing the flow of water.
Tail water - The water issuing downstream from tunnels, conduits, or spillways.
Tail race - The movement of water below a valve or after it has passed through a power
generating plant.
Thin Arch - An arch dam with a base thickness to structural height ratio of 0.2 or less.
Thick Arch - An arch dam with a base thickness to structural height ratio of 0.3 or
greater.
Thrust block - That part of the foundation of and arch dam against which horizontal
thrust is exerted by the dam as the reservoir behind it is filled.
Top of Exclusive Flood Control Capacity - The reservoir water surface elevation at
the top of the reservoir capacity allocated to exclusive use for regulation of flood inflows
to reduce damage downstream.
Top of Inactive Capacity - The reservoir water surface elevation below which the
reservoir will not be evacuated under normal conditions.
Top of Joint Use Capacity - The reservoir water surface elevation at the top of the
reservoir capacity allocated to joint use, i.e., flood control and conservation purposes.
Total Capacity - The reservoir capacity below the highest of the elevations representing
(l) the top of exclusive flood control capacity, (2) the top of joint use capacity, or (3) the
top of active conservation capacity. Total capacity is used to express the total quantity of
water which can be impounded and is exclusive of surcharge capacity. Live Capacity.
That part of the total reservoir capacity which can be withdrawn by gravity. This capacity
is equal to the total capacity less the dead capacity.
Tower - A vertical structure upstream from a dam designed to control flow of reservoir
water through the dam into power generating facilities.
Trash rack - The screening facility built at the intake end of conduits or tunnels to
prevent entrance of debris.
Transpiration - Evaporation of water from the surfaces of green plants, largely through
the stomata, pore openings to the intercelluar spaces in the leaves.
Valve chamber - A chamber within a dam containing valves to control the flow of water
from a reservoir.
Valve vault - An opening excavated in bedrock at the side of a dam and containing
valves or control of flow from the reservoir.
Volume of Dam - The total space occupied by the materials forming the dam stucture
computed between abutments and from top to bottom of dam.
Water stop - A membrane placed in joints in concrete dams to prevent seepage of water.
Weir - A channel of known cross section which enables measurement of the volume of
flow of water after calibration. The top of a spillway set into a concrete dam is also
sometimes designated as a weir.
Zoned dam - An embankment dam in which materials of different properties are placed
systematically in various portions of the dam.