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321 Sta R SP 001a Dam Stability - Main Report
321 Sta R SP 001a Dam Stability - Main Report
321 Sta R SP 001a Dam Stability - Main Report
SUMMARY
1 FOREWORD..................................................................................................................................3
2 GEOMETRICAL MODEL ..................................................................................................................5
2.1 GENERAL..................................................................................................................................5
2.2 MAIN OVERFLOW ( SPILLWAY ) .................................................................................................6
2.3 MAIN NON OVERFLOW ( GRAVITY ) ...........................................................................................6
2.4 TYPICAL RIGHT ABUTMENT .......................................................................................................7
3 METHODOLOGY AND BASIC ASSUMPTIONS ..................................................................................11
3.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................11
3.2 ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES ..........................................................................................................11
3.3 BASIC ASSUMPTIONS..............................................................................................................12
3.4 WEDGE SLIDING ANALYSIS .....................................................................................................13
4 LOADS .......................................................................................................................................14
4.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................14
4.2 RESERVOIR LOADS .................................................................................................................14
4.3 TAILWATER PRESSURE ...........................................................................................................14
4.4 UPLIFT PRESSURES.................................................................................................................15
4.5 SILT PRESSURE ......................................................................................................................15
4.6 EARTHQUAKE FORCES ............................................................................................................15
5 LOADING CONDITIONS ...............................................................................................................21
6 DESIGN PARAMETERS .................................................................................................................22
6.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................22
6.2 SLIDING SAFETY FACTORS ......................................................................................................22
6.3 RCC JOINTS STRENGHT ..........................................................................................................23
6.4 ROCK MASS STRENGHT...........................................................................................................24
6.5 ROCK MASS – CONCRETE STRENGHT .......................................................................................27
6.6 RCC strenght ..........................................................................................................................28
7 STRESS ANALYSIS ......................................................................................................................30
7.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................30
7.2 RIGID BODY ANALYSIS............................................................................................................30
7.3 FINITE ELEMENT MODELLING..................................................................................................34
7.4 DISPLACEMENTS.....................................................................................................................46
8 SLIDING STABILITY ANALYSIS - DAM...........................................................................................48
8.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................48
8.2 SLIDING STABILITY ANALYSIS.................................................................................................48
8.3 ADDITIONAL STABILITY ANALYSIS ..........................................................................................51
8.4 CONCLUSIONS........................................................................................................................51
9 SLIDING STABILITY ANALYSIS - FOUNDATIONS............................................................................53
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9.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................................53
9.2 POTENTIAL SLIDING SURFACE MODEL .....................................................................................53
9.3 SLIDING STABILITY ANALYSIS.................................................................................................55
9.4 ADDITIONAL STABILITY ANALYSIS ..........................................................................................63
9.5 CONCLUSIONS........................................................................................................................64
10 PRELIMINARY THERMAL ANALYSIS ..............................................................................................66
10.1 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................66
10.2 BASIC ASSUMTPIONS AND METHODOLOGY ..........................................................................66
10.3 RESULTS ............................................................................................................................67
11 CONCLUSIONS............................................................................................................................78
11.1 GENERAL............................................................................................................................78
11.2 stress analysis.....................................................................................................................78
11.3 DAM – STABILITY ANALYSIS...............................................................................................79
11.4 FOUNDATIONS – STABILITY ANALYSIS.................................................................................80
12 REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................................82
Enclosed drawings
annex Subject
1 CALCULATIONS
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1 FOREWORD
This report illustrates the general stability analysis of the gravity dam structure.
The stability requirement for a gravity dam for all conditions of loading are that :
• it is safe against sliding on any horizontal or near-horizontal plane within the structure, at the base
and within foundations
• the allowable unit stresses in the concrete or in the foundations shall not be exceeded
The analysis has been therefore carried out on the potentially critical failure surfaces within the dam body
(on horizontal planes representative of construction joints), at the dam-rock-contact and within the
foundations on kinematically possible failure surfaces.
This study is carried out with bidimensional analysis using both the classical gravity technique ( rigid body )
and the finite element modelling.
The results of the study allow therefore to complete the general assessment of the dam stability verifying :
• the stability against sliding
• the stresses in the structure
During the dam excavations the detailed geotechnical assessment of the local conditions will be completed.
The present study will therefore be verified and updated as necessary basing on the gathered data, together
with the results of in tests on the RCC trial pads, obtaining the final local stability analysis.
Since the dam is located in a quite narrow valley the three-dimensional effects cannot be neglected on some
of the abutment blocks with steeper slopes. Therefore an additional finite element three dimensional
modelling is also envisaged for the Level 2 design phase.
The results of the seismic analysis illustrated in this report, based on linear pseudo-statical methodology,
shall be considered, following standard codes and best practice, as preliminary only. The final non linear
dynamic analysis, using time-history method, will be illustrated in a specific report of the Level 2 design.
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This report includes also a preliminary thermal sensitivity analysis of the dam structure. The results of this
study, based on the currently available tests on the RCC design mix and on the envisaged construction
schedule, will be updated and upgraded following the mix design testing program currently being carried
out.
The methodology, assumptions and main results of the studies are illustrated in the report while the detailed
results are given in the annexes.
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2 GEOMETRICAL MODEL
2.1 GENERAL
The analysis have been carried out on the following sections representative of the dam structure :
These sections have been selected for this bidimensional stability analysis being :
The dam body is divided into four zones, with different requirements of strength, carried out using four RCC
mixes having a characteristic strength (cylindrical samples) at 360 days varying from :
Below the spillway crest a RCC zone with fck =12 Mpa and 20 thick will resist the shear stresses due to the
operation of the spillway.
The stress and sliding stability analysis has therefore been carried out on the potentially critical surfaces :
• within the dam body on horizontal planes representative of construction joints, about every 20 m,
including a plane representative of the first lift modelled at the same elevation of the dam
foundations
• at the dam-rock contact
• within the foundations, on two kinematically potential plane failure surfaces
The geometrical modelling of the sections nearby foundations slightly differ, as illustrated in chapter 9,
where the potential sliding surface is considered within the rock or at dam-rock contact or in the roller
compacted concrete section.
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This since, for the purposes of this general study, an extremely conservatively assumption is taken for the
sliding in rock or at dam-rock contact not considering the relevant contribution of the u/s plinth ( see ch. 9 ).
The following paragraphs illustrate the general geometrical modelling of each section.
It is worthwhile mentioning that the detailed design of the upstream toe ( plynth ) and of the bucket with
the relevant stress analysis will be carried out during the Level 2 design phase.
The overflow section, illustrated in the figure in the following pages, has the following main geometrical
characteristics :
The stability analysis has been carried out along No. 14 horizontal sections :
• z = 648, 638 m a.s.l. within foundations
• z = 653 m a.s.l. dam-rock contact
• z = 653..850 m a.s.l. within the dam structure, No. 11 sections about every 20 m
The non-overflow section, illustrated in the figure in the following pages, has the following main geometrical
characteristics :
The stability analysis has been carried out along No. 14 horizontal sections :
• z = 677, 663 m a.s.l. within foundations
• z = 682 m a.s.l. dam-rock contact
• z = 682..882 m a.s.l. within the dam structure, No. 11 sections about every 20 m
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A typical right abutment section, illustrated in the figure in the following pages, has been selected with the
following main geometrical characteristics :
The stability analysis has been carried out along No. 8 sections :
• z = 749, 739 m a.s.l. within foundations
• z = 754 m a.s.l. dam-rock contact
• z = 774..878 m a.s.l. within the dam structure, No. 8 sections about every 20 m
The dam rock contact surface shows a horizontal trunk from the u/s toe to about three / fourths of the dam
body and an ending plane inclined 30 degrees. This inclined trunk significantly contributes to the stability
along the foundations.
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3.1 GENERAL
The study is carried out basing on the methodology and basic assumptions given in the following documents
and recalled here in the present chapter :
• Design Criteria [ 2 ]
• USACE, EM 1110-1-2200 Gravity Dam Design [ 1 ]
The following two classical methodologies are adopted for this bidimensional stability analysis :
• gravity method ( rigid body )
• finite element modelling.
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The finite element method permits to model with better accuracy the structure where the geometry differs
from the basic triangle one.
Moreover it allows a more detailed modelling of the interaction dam – rock foundation particularly where the
ratio concrete / foundations modulus becomes relevant.
The following basic conservative assumptions have been adopted for the current general analysis of the
structure :
• The uplift pressure trend is assumed without considering the favourable effects of the d/s drainages
• The favourable contribution to the sliding resistance of the quoining of the foundations( wedge at
the d/s toe ) has currently not been considered for this analysis. This assumption is extremely
conservative for the right abutment section;
• D/S backfill has not been included in the model.
• Nappe forces conservatively are not considered
• Water pressures on the spillway crest and chute have not been considered
• The favourable tailwater pressures for spillway overflowing sections have been estimated
considering possible unfavourable conditions ( fluctuating pressures ) considering an “effective
tailwater depth” [4].
The rock wedge at the d/s toe should be considered contributing to the sliding resistance following several
international standards [1] [5] [6]. Therefore during the level 2 design, having a detailed knowledge of the
rock characteristics at the d/s toe on the right abutment, the extremely conservative assumption currently
adopted will be abandoned.
The uplift pressure trend adopted should be considered a conservative assumption in the dam body since :
• The two impermeability systems for the dam facing ( PVC membrane + grout enriched layer )
together with the double drainage system ( membrane drainage + drain holes ) allow considering
for the analysis a much lower uplift pressure within the dam
• The downstream drainage curtain and grouting screen allow considering a lower uplift pressure at
the dam-rock contact and within the foundations
The silting loads have been considered assuming Mohr Coulomb behaviour
The mass density of the water has been assumed to be 9.81 kN /m3
The material properties for concrete and base rock are summarized in the table below.
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Silt has been considered with the following geotechnical characteristics and saturated unit weight [7] :
- φ = 25 deg
- c = 0 KN/m2
- γE = 17 KN/m3
The analysis are based on failure surfaces that can be any combination of planes and curves, however, for
simplicity, failure surfaces are assumed to be planes.These planes forme the bases of the wedges.
The right abutment foundations have been designed with a non planar surface.
Therefore the potential sliding is calculated dividing the dam structure into two wedges ( both with planar
foundation surfaces ) and applying the classical wedge analysis illustrated in [1] basing on :
FS = Σi { [ ( Wi+Vi ) cos αi + ( HLi - HRi ) * sin αi + ( Pi-1 – Pi ) sin αi +( Qi-1 – Qi ) cos αi – Ui ] tan φi + ci Li
} / Σi [ ( HLi - HRi ) cos αi +( Pi-1 – Pi ) cos αi + ( Qi-1 – Qi ) sen αi - ( Wi+Vi ) sen αi
where
i number of wedge analyzed
Wi total weight of water or concrete in the i wedge
Vi any vertical force applied above the top of i wedge
αi angle between slip plane of i wedge and horizontal. Positive is counterclockwise
Ui uplift force exerted along slip plane of i wedge
HLi any horizontal force applied above top or below bottom of left side adjacent wedge
HRii any horizontal force applied above top or below bottom of right side adjacent wedge
Pi-1 – Pi forces applied horizontally between wedges
Qi-1 – Qi forces applied vertically between wedges
Li length along the slip plane of i wedge
Having obtained the detailed Pi and Qi values from the FEM analysis the wedge equation is promptly applied.
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4 LOADS
4.1 GENERAL
• Dead load ( Gw )
• Headwater pressures ( V; Ww ) ( V horizontal ; Ww vertical )
• Tailwater pressures ( V’ ; W’w ) ( V’ horizontal ; Ww‘ vertically )
• Uplift pressure ( U )
• Silt pressure ( Eh, Ev ) ( Eh horizontal; Ev vertical )
• Earthquake forces (Pe_u/s, Pe_d/s, Pe_E , Sh ) ( Pe reservoir, tail water and Silt; Sh concrete )
The drawings enclosed in the following pages illustrate the loads acting on the three sections :
• 321 STA D SP 003 statical calcs, gravity block
• 321 STA D SP 006 statical calcs, spillway block
• 321 STA D SP 009 statical calcs, right abutment
It is worthwhile mentioning that since some loads ( water pressures, silting pressures ) vary with the loading
condition ( floods, silting level ) several values has been indicated for the relevant forces on the drawings.
The headwater pressure have been considered varying from the hydrostatic pressure relative to :
Full tailwater pressures have been considered varying the hydrostatic pressure relative to :
• the Normal Operating Condition level 680.5 m a.s.l.
• the Standard Project Flood Level - SPF = 10 600 m3/ sec 696.0 m a.s.l.
• the Probable Maximum Flood level – PMF = 18 600 m3/sec 701.0 m a.s.l.
Tailwater pressures on the downstream face of the non-overflow ( gravity ) section have been determined
considering the full tailwater depth.
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For spillway sections tailwater pressures have been substantially reduced adopting a classical conservative
approach.
The forces acting on the downstream face of the overflow sections due to tailwater level may fluctuate as
energy is dissipated in the plunge basin.
Therefore these stabilizing forces have been estimated reducing the effective tailwater depth to as 60 % of
the full energy grade depth. [1].
Effective tailwater pressures have been considered varying the hydrostatic pressure relative to :
• the Standard Project Flood Level - SPF = 10 600 m3/ sec 687.6 m a.s.l.
• the Probable Maximum Flood level – PMF = 18 600 m3/sec 690.6 m a.s.l.
Uplift pressures have been considered varying from the hydrostatic pressure relative to [1] :
• at u/s toe H1 =the reservoir water level
• at d/s toe H2 = full tailwater level
• at drainages H3= K (H1-H2) * (L-X)/L + H2
where :
K=1–E
E = drain effectiveness expressed as decimal
L = dam base length
X = drain distance from u/s toe
The drain effectiveness E is conservatively set equal to 0,67 as indicated in the design criteria [2]
The full tailwater depth has always been adopted for calculating uplift pressure.
The silt elevation in dam section is assumed as 689.0 m a.s.l. corresponding to the elevation reached in the
reservoir after 50 years [7].
The silt pressure has been evaluated using Coulomb earth pressure theory, assuming the at-rest, or Ko,
condition. [8]
In the calculation of the silt pressure the saturated unit weight of soil is reduced by the unit weight of water
to determine the buoyant weight.
The earthquake loads are based on design earthquakes determined from seismological evaluation.
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According to the Seismic Hazard Assessment of the area evaluated during the G. Gibe III design [9] the
seismic coefficient considered in design are:
• Operating Basis Earthquake (OBE) |a| = 0.06 g ( m / g2 )
• Maximum Credible Earthquake (MCE) |a| = 0.15 g ( m / g2 ).
This acceleration is applied to the masses being analyzed in the pseudo-static calculations. The analysis are
performed considering the most unfavourable direction of the acceleration.
The value of the increase ( both u/s and d/s ) in water pressure at any elevation due to the horizontal
earthquake is given by the following equation [6] :
• Pe = C αο γw h
where :
C - dimensionless coefficient giving the distribution and magnitude of pressure
αο - earthquake acceleration ratio
γw – unit weight of water
h – total depth of reservoir
The total depth of reservoir (h) is the difference from the maximum retaining level and the minimum natural
river bed elevation in correspondence of the weir upstream face.
The seismic action water inside the granular mix of the u/s backfill is included in the seismic action of the
backfilling itself.
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5 LOADING CONDITIONS
The loading conditions are obtained from the design criteria [2] and the USACE gravity dam manual [1]
including the typical :
• Construction
• Normal operating
• Flood discharge
• Construction with operating base earthquake
• Normal operating with operating base earthquake
• Normal operating with maximum credible earthquake
• Probable maximum flood
As indicated in the design criteria an additional analysis is performed with inefficient drainages ( i.e. E=0 ).
This extreme condition is considered in combination with the normal operating conditions.
The tables here below summarizes the characteristics of all the considered loading conditions :
1 UNUSUAL CONSTRUCTION NO NO NO NO NO NO
CONSTRUCTION
4 EXTREME
+ OBE NO NO NO NO NO OBE
NORMAL OPERATING
5 UNUSUAL
+ OBE 892.0 680.5 680.5 689.0 0,67 OBE
PROBABLE MAXIMUM
7 EXTREME
FLOOD 893.0 701.0 690.6 689.0 0,67 NO
NORMAL OPERATING
Add2 EXTREME
+ INEFF. DRAINAGE 892.0 680.5 680.5 689.0 0 NO
LOADING CONDITIONS
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6 DESIGN PARAMETERS
6.1 GENERAL
The stability requirement for a gravity dam for all conditions of loading are that :
• it is safe against sliding on any horizontal or near-horizontal plane within the structure, at the base
and within foundations
• the allowable unit stresses in the concrete or in the foundations shall not be exceeded
The analysis has been therefore carried out on the potentially critical failure surfaces considering sliding and
stresses safety factors varying with the loading conditions illustrated in the present chapter.
The mechanical properties of the rock foundations are illustrated in the relevant report [11] and briefly
recalled here below.
The design strength of the RCC construction joints have been assessed in the relevant report [12] and will
be verified and/or updated following the in situ tests program based on the RCC mix testing currently being
carried out.
The sliding stability is assessed by means of a Factor of Safety ( FS ) as a measure of the resistance of the
structure against sliding.
This Factor of Safety is defined as the ratio of the maximum resisting shear ( TF ) and the applied shear ( T )
along the slip surface :
Where :
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The stability criteria for each of the loading conditions, basing on [1] [2], are listed here below :
USUAL 2.0
UNUSUAL 1.7
EXTREME 1.3
The Design Criteria [2] envisage also possible additional safety analysis on potential sliding planes materials
in bed rock ( i.e. possible persistant sub-horizontal joints in the river bed or wedges especially in the
abutments ) with variable safety factors not considering the cohesion on the same plane.
However since, as illustrated in the relevant report [ 11 ] no such kinematically failure surfaces have been
currently found in foundations this analysis is not considered in the present report.
The design strength on the RCC construction joints is assumed variable with the material characteristic
strength as indicated in the table here below :
Zone f'c φ C
1 > 15 45 1000
2 > 12 45 800
3 > 10 45 600
4 >7 45 400
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The RCC gravity dam will have the foundations mainly in trachytic rocks unweathered or slightly weathered.
The structure of the rock mass if generally favourable for the foundations since no weak planes
subhorizontal, or subparallel to the dam excavations, were found.
The most relevant lithological types found along the dam foundations are classified by the following rock
mass units :
• B Basalts
• U-T Unweathered trachyte
• SW-T Slightly Weathered Trachyte
• SA-T Slightly Altered Trachyte
The following typical zones can be considered for the general stability analysis along the dam foundations :
From to
0+200 SW-T
LEFT ABUTMENT
0+200 0+300 U-T
This basic scheme derives from the geological sections [ 11 ] with the following observations.
The steep left abutment slope ( approx. below el. 850 m a.s.l. ) exposes the trachyte rock with a shallow
weathered layer on the surface, about 5-10 m thick. Dam excavations will generally expose the sound
unweathered trachyte layer underneath.
The river bed has been investigated mostly from the banks, leaving therefore some uncertainties for the
geo-mechanical characteristics of the bedrock. The slightly weathered unit is therefore adopted for the Level
1 design stability analysis in lieu of the unweathered rock layer generally found.
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The steep right abutment slope ( approx. below el. 850 m a.s.l. ) exposes the slightly weathered trachyte
rock investigated by the inspection adits, boreholes and geophysics. The variability of the mechanical
characteristics, related also to a slight hydrothermal alteration locally encountered, is modelled considering
two units : SW-T and SA-T.
The mechanical properties of the rock mass have been assessed basing on the generalized Hoek–Brown
failure criterion. The table below summarizes the obtained Hoek-Brown parameters.
The equivalent Mohr-Coulomb parameters for the undisturbed rock are calculated by linear envelopes which
provide a best-fit over given stress ranges obtaining the following table.
σ3max MPa
0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 3 4
c’ MPa
3.5 3.6 3.7 3.9 4.1 4.5 4.9
B
φ’ ° 71 70.1 68.6 67.4 66.4 64.7 63.3
c’ MPa
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.5 1.6 1.9 2.2
U-T
φ’ ° 64.6 62.5 59.5 57.3 55.6 52.9 50.9
c’ MPa
0.5 0.6 0.8 1 1.1 1.4 1.7
SW-T
φ’ ° 66 63 59.2 56.6 54.7 51.7 49.5
c’ MPa
0.2 0.3 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.9 1.1
SA-T
φ’ ° 60.3 56.1 51.2 48.1 45.8 42.5 40.1
Having always the GSI > 25 and a nearby 0.5 the Mohr-Coulomb parameters can also be derived from the
original Hoek-Brown criterion using Bray’s exact solution with similar results.
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The representative main sections are therefore analyzed, conservatively, considering the SW-T rock mass
unit in the foundations.The right abutment typical sections analysis is carried out using the SW-T parameters
for 80% of the sliding plane length together with the SA-T ones along 20 % of the plane length.
Therefore, in order to carry out the sliding analysis using more frequently used and more understandable
approach, the Hoek-Brown parameters are transformed in the equivalent Mohr-Coulomb ones ( n.d.r.
equivalent Mohr-Coulomb friction and equivalent Mohr-Coulomb cohesion ) using the exact Bray’s Solution
[11] for the original Hoek-Brown criteria.
The following tables recall, for better understanding of the analysis, some of the representative equivalent
Mohr-Coulomb parameters obtained.
σn φ’ c’
(MPa) (°) (MPa)
0 72,6 0,5
0,5 63,7 0,7
1 59,7 0,9
1,5 57,0 1,1
2 54,9 1,3
2,5 53,2 1,5
3 51,8 1,7
3,5 50,5 1,9
4 49,4 2,0
4,5 48,4 2,2
5 47,5 2,4
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σn φ c’
(MPa) (°) (MPa)
0 71,9 0,2
0,5 56,7 0,4
1 51,5 0,6
1,5 48,1 0,7
2 45,6 0,9
2,5 43,6 1,1
3 41,9 1,2
3,5 40,4 1,3
4 39,2 1,5
4,5 38,1 1,6
5 37,1 1,8
The strength of the concrete-rock contact is currently assumed, while waiting for in situ tests to be carried
out, using conservative parameters obtained from tests carried out on a quite large number of existing gravity
dams.
The failure surface is conservatively assumed as planar while the undulations and asperities, obtained
following the foundations excavation, will generally guarantee an increase in the shear strength.
The concrete-rock contact strength will derive from the bond resistance , which will be verified by in situ
tests on trial pads, of :
The tensile strength should be assumed to be zero since it will be controlled by the tensile strength of the
rock mass immediately below the contact.
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The following graph ( obtained from [10] ) summarizes the peak shear strength obtained by No. 54 existing
dams in the United States.
Therefore the current analysis is conservatively carried out using parameters exceeded in more than 90 % of
the No. 54 considered dams, which include also some old dams with poor foundations treatment or rock
quality.
The adopted design strength parameters for the concrete – rock contact are therefore the following values,
indicated in the above graph by means of the red line :
• c’ = 0.3 MPa
• φ’ = 50°
The requirement for the gravity dam stability analysis is that for all conditions of loading the allowable unit
stresses in the concrete shall not be exceeded.
The principal stresses induced by loads are therefore calculated in the current study at various section of the
concrete structure.
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The maximum allowable safety factors on concrete stresses, obtained from the design criteria [2] and the
USACE code for gravity dams [1], are indicated on the following table :
The current design values of the allowable compression and tensile stress for the different types of RCC and
loading conditions are therefore summarized in the table below ( f’c is 1-year unconfined compressive
strength of concrete ) :
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7 STRESS ANALYSIS
7.1 GENERAL
The stress analysis has been carried out with two methodologies :
• Gravity Method ( rigid body )
• Finite Element Modelling
The gravity method gives the stresses at the upstream and downstream toes of each dam structure
horizontal section, with the stresses along dam foundations varying linearly.
The Finite Element Modelling gives the complete stress field in the dam structure and in the foundations
being, therefore, more detailed where the section varies from the basic triangle.
The detailed results of the analysis are given in the annex including for each typical dam section :
• 1 - RIGID BODY
• 2 - FEM
o FEM MODEL
o DISPLACEMENTS
o STRESSES MAPS
o STRESSES GRAPHS
• 3 - SUMMARY : FEM+RIGID BODY
• 4 - FOUNDATIONS
In the first part are collected the computation of the stresses performed with the Rigid Body analysis. The
second one includes all the results of the Finite Element Modelling with complete mapping of stresses for
each loading condition and graphs with stresses for each potential sliding section. The third part summarizes
the results of the analysis comparing the rigid body and the FEM modelling.
The table here below briefly summarizes the main results of the stress analysis for the most critical loading
conditions (construction,normal operating, MCE) at :
• dam foundations
• the first section in the dam body :being
o 702 m a.s.l. for main overflow
o 673 m a.s.l. for overflow
o 774 m a.s.l. for the typical right abutment
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The envisaged plinth reduces the stresses in the foundations, in the main sections, as results comparing in
the above table the values obtained at foundation level and in the first section in the dam body.
On the right abutment stresses increase on the foundation surface , composed by two planes, because of
the effect of the inclined downstream toe.
The table above recalls the maximum and minimum allowable stresses for each RCC layer with the relevant
color code for easier reading.
The main results of the analysis carried out with the rigid body method are indicated in the tables below
which illustrate :
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• Three representative dam sections
• Horizontal section every 20 m ( approx )
• The Principal stresses N2 and N1 at the upstream and downstream toe
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Load Condition Ref. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 2add
Load Condition Unusual Usual Unusual Extreme Unusual Extreme Extreme Extreme
The result of the Rigid Body Analysis indicates for the main overflow and non overflow sections that :
• Principal Compressive stresses are below the acceptable limits
The highest stresses are reached around the first section in the dam body
• No tensile stresses appear at the u/s face in normal conditions
• During earthquake loadings, as expected, tensions up to about 1 Mpa are shown
Stresses for the right abutment section are also well within the allowable limits.
The detailed analysis of the stresses for the three representative sections and for all the loading conditions
are included in the annexes.
Below are represented typical stress maps for the three sections with the most significant loading conditions:
( Construction,Normal operating, Normal operating with Maximum Credible Earthquake ).
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The graphs below represent a typical distribution ( n.d.r. along the non overflow section at elevation 702 m
a.s.l. ) of the normal and horizontal stresses (in global system) and principal stresses (in combined system)
varying with the loading conditions. All graphs are included in the annexes.
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The tables in the following pages summarize the main results of the FEM stress analysis at u/s and d/s toe.
It is necessary to recall that a finite element model linear analysis of a gravity dam frequently indicates
nearby the foundations toes the occurrence of local minor plasticization effects, in the range of some
meters, which might be better modelled with non linear analysis which basically removes the stress peaks
allowing the plasticization to occur.
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For this right abutment section the values indicated in the table at el. 754 are taken on a theoretical
horizontal surface.
The result of the Finite Element Analysis while generally confirming the results of the rigid body analysis,
show the following significant variations :
• Stress curves are generally flattened ( i.e. lowering the highest compressive and increasing the
lowest stresses ) nearby the foundations because of the lower modulus of elasticity of the rock
mass;
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• Nearby the dam toes some peak stresses appear, typical of the linear gravity dam finite element
modelling, indicating that probably some minor plasticization effects might occur for some meters
nearby the foundation ends. A non linear sensitivity analysis, allowing plasticization to locally occur,
will be carried out in the Level 2 design frame better modelling this local effects returning the
stresses shape to a more linear aspect;
• Local stresses where the section varies substantially from the basic triangle ( i.e. upstream plinth,
typical right abutment foundations, spillway bucket, etc. ) are better assessed with the FEM than
with the rigid body analysis
7.4 DISPLACEMENTS
The detailed results of the displacement analysis obtained with the FEM is given in the annexes.
The table and graph here below summarize the main results of the study showing :
• Horizontal crest-foundation displ. varying with the loading condition
non overflow and overflow sections
• Horizontal displacements varying along the u/s face
overflow section
The table indicates the relative displacements of the crest to the foundations ( n.d.r. Dx_crest - Dx_found )
while the graph indicates the absolute displacements.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
.LOADING
Unusual Usual Unusual Extreme Unusual Extreme Extreme
CONDITION
Normal Flood Construction Normal Operating Normal Operating Probable
Construction Operating Discharge +OBE +OBE +MCE Max. Flood
C diti
m m M m m M m
RIGHT ABUT
E = 5 GPa
-0.028 0.031 0.016 -0.015 0.047 0.073 0.029
RIGHT ABUT
E = 10 GPa
-0.023 0.030 0.018 - 0.014 0.043 0.063 0.029
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The maximum displacements of the highest dam sections in normal conditions are lower than 10 cms.
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8.1 GENERAL
The sliding stability analysis has been carried out basing on two methodologies :
• Gravity Method ( rigid body )
• Finite Element Modelling
The gravity method allows the classical computation of forces acting along the potential sliding surfaces as
illustrated in [1].
The Finite Element Modelling gives the complete stress field in the dam structure and in the foundations
being, therefore, more detailed where the section varies from the basic triangle.
The detailed results of the analysis are given in the annexes.
Comparing the results obtained with two methodologies ( FEM + Rigid Body ) differences between the two
methodologies are practically negligible unless where relevant variation from the basic triangle section is
observed.
The following tables summarizes the results of the sliding stability analysis carried out on the three
representative sections at several elevations with FEM and rigid body methodology.
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Load Condition Ref. 2 3 4 5 6 7 2add
Load Condition Usual Unusual Extreme Unusual Super - Extreme Extreme Extreme
The results obtained with FEM and RIGID BODY are normally practically identical, as expected.
The result of the study confirm that the required sliding stability safety factors are guaranteed for all loading
conditions examined.
To complete the assessment of the stability an additional sensitivity analysis has been carried out for the
right abutment section with reduced modulus of elasticity , E=5 GPa.
No significant variations are obtained in the sliding analysis from the E=10 Gpa case, being the safety
factors practically hydentical.
The results for a deformability modulus of E=10 Gpa given in the previous paragraph and in the annexes
therefore practically represent also the safety factors obtained for this condition.
8.4 CONCLUSIONS
The sliding stability analysis has been carried out considering the potential sliding surfaces within the dam
structure at about 20 m of distance.
The study indicates that the most critical condition is the normal operating, as expected considering the not
large earthquakes loads, the gated spillway ( n.d.r. which avoids critical sliding conditions while flooding )
The table in the following briefly summarizes the most significant results of the analysis for the most
relevant loading conditions.
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LOADING CONDITIONS
POTENTIAL SLIDING NORMAL NORMAL OPERATING NORMAL OPERATING +
SECTION
SURFACE OPERATING + MCE INEFF. DRAINAGES
The results of the study therefore confirm that the design characteristics of the roller compacted concrete
dam structure are adequate to guarantee the stability against sliding.
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9.1 GENERAL
The present chapter illustrates the results of the stability analysis carried out within the dam foundations and
at the dam-rock contact.
Loads and loading conditions, the basic assumptions for the analysis and the design strength parameters are
illustrated the previous chapters of this report. The dam foundations geological structure is illustrated in the
relevant report [ 9 ]. The following paragraph recalls the assessment of the kinematically feasible modes of
failure.
The shear along discontinuities ( either planar, combined or wedge ) is not a critical condition for the general
stability analysis of this dam basing on the current knowledge of the geological structure [ 11 ].
This since the geological structure is controlled by two main families of subvertical joints being sub-parallel
and sub-orthogonal to the Omo river, therefore not forming a kinematically feasible mode of failure ( i.e
wedge ). Secondary joint sets have been encountered locally only and with very limited persistence (usually
less than 5 m).
Therefore the two potentially failure surfaces, along concrete-rock contact and through jointed rock mass,
are analyzed in the present chapter.
Three possible planar failure surfaces are considered for each of the three main sections :
• Dam – rock contact
• Foundations ( 5 m below excavations )
• Foundations ( 15 m below excavations )
The potential failure planes has been considered from the intersection of the upstream and downstream
basic triangle faces with the horizontal potential sliding plane.
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The following figures indicate the failure surfaces modelled.
Therefore the following trunks of the sliding surfaces, which give a positive contribution to the stability, are
conservatively not considered in the present evaluation of the surface strength :
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The excavation surface has been conservatively considered as planar, unless for the downstream toe of the
right abutment section here below.
The irregularities of the foundation surface, which will be obtained at the end of the excavation, will
contribute to the stability against sliding. It can be recalled that a stepped excavation surface is currently
being considered for the left abutment sections.
The sliding stability analysis has been carried out for No. 72 potential failure surfaces considering :
• No. 3 representative dam sections
o Main Non overflow ch 0+311
o Main overflow ch 0+423
o Right abutment typical ch 0+530
• No. 3 potential sliding surfaces :
o Dam-rock contact
o Foundations : 5 m below the dam
o Foundations : 15 m below the dam
• No. 8 loading conditions
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The results of the analysis for normal operating loading conditions for the dam-rock contact and the first
sliding surface in foundations are illustrated in the following figures.
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SLIDING ANALYSIS : RIGHT ABUTMENT, DAM-ROCK CONTACT ( HORIZONTAL PLANE + INCLINED TOE )
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The graphs indicate the variation along the potential sliding surfaces of the following parameters :
The trend of the τres in the graph indicates that, as reasonable, the sliding strength substantially increases in
the downstream part of the sections together with the increase of the normal stresses. Therefore the
accurate control of the quality of the dam foundations surface will be particularly relevant in the downstream
half of the section.
The shear strength is constantly significantly higher than the shear stress obtained from the modeling.
The stress and strength peak at the downstream toe result from this linear FEM analysis and would be
strongly reduced considering a minor plasticization at the toe.
It is necessary to recall that the dam-rock contact for the typical right abutment section is modeled with a
horizontal section and inclined surface at the downstream toe.
This inclined toe substantially increases the sliding safety increasing also the stresses normal to the dam
rock foundation as observed in the graph.
The upstream plinth for the main sections and the right abutment one also slightly contributes to the sliding
resistance increasing the total length of the dam-rock contact and the generally the compressive stresses at
the toe.
The design of the plinth will be, however, completed during the Level 2 design phase of the project.
The main results of this analysis are summarized in the following tables which indicate for each modeled
sliding surface :
This values are given for all the loading conditions of the three dam section on the potential sliding surfaces
modeled.
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Failure Plane
Failure Plane Failure Plane
Load Condition 754 m a.s.l. +
749 m a.s.l. 739 m a.s.l.
incl. to 771 masl
1 Unusual Construction
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To complete the assessment of the stability in the foundation the following two additional analysis have
been carried out for the right abutment section :
• FEM modelling for sliding on the dam-rock contact
• Sensitivity analysis with reduced modulus of elasticity , E=5 GPa
The FEM analysis is extremely interesting since allows, as not possible with the classical wedge analysis, to
consider all the relevant effects of the downstream toe of rock for the dam stability.
The results from FEM are obtained as shear stresses and normal compressive stresses all along the dam-
rock contact surface.
The following graph shows the comparison of the shear stresses to the shear resistance.
SLIDING ANALYSIS : RIGHT ABUTMENT, DAM-ROCK CONTACT ( HOR. PLANE + INCL. TOE ) - FEM MODEL
Considering the whole contribution from the downstream toe the safety factor on the sliding surface
substantially increase from the FS = 4.1 ( FEM + WEDGE analysis ) up to :
• FS = 6.7
These results cannot be considered conservative and therefore are not currently adopted for this general
stability analysis. However represent of the effective condition encountered along the sliding surface further
confirming the reliability of the more conservative wedge analysis.
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A sensitivity analysis is also carried out considering a lower modulus of elasticity in foundations of E=5Gpa.
The graphs included in the annexes shows the stresses obtained for each loading condition.
The sliding safety factors are practically hidenthycal to the ones obtained for the E=10 Gpa condition as
indicated in the following table :
Failure Plane
Foundation modulus Failure Plane Failure Plane
754 m a.s.l. +
Loading Condition 749 m a.s.l. 739 m a.s.l.
incl. to 771 masl
9.5 CONCLUSIONS
The sliding stability analysis for the dam foundations has been carried out considering the following critical
potential sliding surfaces :
The study indicates that the most critical condition is the normal operating, as expected considering the not
large earthquakes loads, the gated spillway ( n.d.r. which avoids critical sliding conditions while flooding )
The results of the study confirm that the general characteristics of the foundations are suitable for the RCC
gravity dam.
The following table recalls the main results of the analysis for the most critical loading conditions.
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LOADING CONDITIONS
POTENTIAL SLIDING NORMAL NORMAL OPERATING NORMAL OPERATING +
SECTION
SURFACE OPERATING + MCE INEFF. DRAINAGES
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10.1 INTRODUCTION
A preliminary “mass gradient” thermal sensitivity analysis has been completed for the Gibe III dam as described
in the present chapter.
The detailed analysis will be carried out after mix designs are undertaken and modified material properties are
established for jobsite mixes and materials.
Material properties used in the initial basic thermal study were estimated for various mixes, based on the initial
tests using aggregates processed from raw material provided by the Gibe III site, using relationships that have
even established for mass RCC mixes of this type.
The preliminary mass gradient thermal analyses addressed the potential for thermal cracking deep in the mass
of the dam due to long term cooling to long term stable conditions. For this type of initial assessment it is
normal practice to use a one-dimensional model because it takes many years before there is any notable heat
loss from the interior of the dam to the upstream and downstream faces.
The exception is the upper portion of the dam where the distance from the interior to the upstream and
downstream faces is minimal, say less than about 20 meters. The detailed analyses should, however, consider a
two dimensional model for the full height of the dam.
The placing temperature was taken to be equivalent to the ambient temperature at that time for the time of
day, and day of the year, for each layer when it was placed. Site data accumulated to date was used for
ambient temperatures, with the temperature being increased by 0 to 3 degrees depending on the elevation
within the valley. Based on information at the jobsite, 3 degrees was added for RCC at the bottom of the valley,
transitioning to 0 degrees at the top of the dam. This represents the probable natural placing temperatures if
no cooling or temperature controls are enforced.
The basic initial study first considered four mixes, each having 75 kg/m3 of processed ash from the jobsite, with
cement contents of 65, 75, 95, and 115 kg/m3. Each of the four studies used the same mix placed from the
bottom to the top of the dam. Later supplemental mixes can combine various mixes for various portions of the
dam, as required to meet strength criteria for areas of different stresses.
For each of these mixes, a basic construction schedule was used that placed two lifts per day, with one lift
placed at 5 AM and one lift placed at 5 PM. This essentially represents placing 24 hrs per day, 7 days per week,
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with one layer placed essentially every 12 hours. For each of these studies the construction start (first layer of
RCC) was taken to be the hotter part of the year, on 1 January. The foundation was exposed to ambient
conditions for five months before RCC, starting RCC.
The FEM model calculated temperatures at every 0.1 day (2.4 hours), with a node spacing of 300 mm. The
model used an adiabatic temperature rise over a time period of 1 year. The exposed lift surface was subjected
to the ambient temperature for that day of the year and time of day that occurred for each 2.4 hour time
increment. A slight breeze was considered at the lift surface.
An analysis was then made for the mix with 75 kg of cement, but the model started RCC six months later in the
cooler part of the year on 1 June.
Another analysis was made for the mix with 75 kg of cement, starting RCC on 1 January, and placing 2 layers
per day, but working 20 hours per day to avoid some of the hottest part of the day. In this case the lifts were
placed at 5 PM and midnight. Another run is being made to evaluate placing 20 hrs per day, but avoiding the
hottest 4 hours of the day (1 PM- 5 PM).
In order to get an idea of how much heat is lost or gained from the environment, two more thermal runs were
made of the basic mix with 75 kg of cement, starting 1 January, but placing all of the RCC from the bottom of
the dam to the top at one time. One run placed the RCC at a hotter time of the day with a mix placing
temperature of 33 C, and the other placed it at the average daily temperature for January of 26 C.
10.3 RESULTS
Results of the different thermal studies are summarized in the charts enclosed in this chapter.
One sheet is used to summarize results for each of the scenarios. The upper portion of each sheet shows the
ambient temperature and the temperature for each of eight selected nodes. As indicated in the table at the
bottom of the sheet, these nodes represent the following heights above the foundation: 0.0 meters, 5.1 meters,
9.9 meters, 15.0 meters, 20.1 meters, 39.9 meters, 60.0 meters, 120.0 meters, and 180.0 meters.
The table shows the internal and foundation restraint factors that apply for each of these heights in both the
longitudinal (parallel to axis of the dam) and transverse (upstream-downstream) directions.
The cooling time from peak temperature until probable long term stable thermal conditions is indicated for each
height, followed by the resulting strain capacity for that mix at that time, with consideration of changes in
modulus with time, plus expected creep relaxation. The table then compares the calculated thermal strain for
that mix and height in the dam (for both the transverse and longitudinal directions) to the maximum strain
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capacity at that time. The table indicates “yes” or “no” whether or not the RCC can be expected to crack for
that mix, set of placing conditions, and mix.
A monolith joint spacing of 25 meters was used for this assessment and will be changed for the further detailed
studies. The upstream to downstream distance for longitudinal cracking as taken to be 175 meters at the base
of the dam for these initial studies.
Results show that some degree of cooling will be required for the dam, but not for all of it, if placing starts at
the hotter time of the year, but very little cooling control is required if placing starts at the coldest time of the
year. This applies to mixes with 75 kg of cement or less.Cooling will be required in order to control longitudinal
cracking for RCC placed in the warmer part of the year, and if more than 75 kg of cement is needed in the
central part of the dam at the foundation even if RCC starts in the cooler part of the year. This requires little
cooling if RCC starts in the cold part of the year, to substantial cooling primarily for the lower 25% of the
monolith height if RCC starts in the hot part of the year and uses a mix with 115 kg of cement.
This basic analysis does not allow to accurately develop a precise specification for cooling requirements.
However, based on the studies to date and also of the experience at other projects, a suggested initial
temperature controls assessment can be obtained. The current controls (subject to further revision based on
additional data and studies) are indicated here below.
In general, some cooling (or placement only during cool weather) will probably be necessary for RCC at the
foundation, but the need for cooling will decrease as the level of placement gets higher above the
foundation.
Therefore this study indicates that RCC shall be placed at temperatures conforming to the restrictions below.
If, however, placement in any monolith has stopped, and the top lift surface is exposed for 30 to 90 days,
the weighted average placing temperature for the next 10 meter rise in RCC shall not exceed 20 C-degrees.
If the surface is exposed for more than 90 days, the weighted average placing temperature of the next 10
meter rise shall not exceed 22 C degrees.
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The calculation shall be a moving average based on the previous 24 hours for the monolith block or
placement area.
In addition to the controls for RCC, conventional “leveling” concrete (if used) and any mass conventional
concrete at the foundation or base of any monolith block shall have a placing temperature not to exceed 17
C-degrees. The temperature of conventional concrete shall be measured 20 minutes after mixing or
immediately after vibration, whichever comes last. No leveling or fill concrete shall have a planned
construction joint other than horizontal lift joints. Each lift of leveling or other conventional concrete shall
extend across the entire monolith from one form face to the opposite form face, or within the confines of the
foundation.
Conventional dental fill concrete below any RCC shall be placed at a temperature not to exceed:
Maximum Placing
Temperature (C)
0 to 10 m3 or less than 1 m deep 28
10 to 30 m3 or less than 1.5 m deep 25
3
30 to 200 m 23
*More than 200 m3 22
The charts below summarize the results of the sensitivity analysis carried out.
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11 CONCLUSIONS
11.1 GENERAL
This report illustrates the general assessment of the gravity dam stability analyzing :
• the stability against sliding on potential failure surfaces
• the stresses in the dam structure
The following typical sections have been considered representative of the gravity dam :
• Main overflow ( ch 0+423 )
• Main non overflow ( ch 0+311 )
• Typical right abutment ( ch 0+530 )
The sliding analysis has been therefore carried out on the potentially critical failure surfaces within the dam
body (n.d.r construction joints), at the dam-rock-contact and within the foundations on kinematically
possible failure surfaces.
The results of the study confirm that the general characteristics of the foundations are suitable for the RCC
gravity dam as indicated in the following paragraph.
The preliminary thermal sensitivity analysis has also been carried estimating the cooling control requirements
for the RCC.
The table below shows the maximum and minimum allowable stresses for each RCC layer.
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The main results of the stress analysis are briefly summarized in the following table indicating principal
stresses for :
Along the dam upstream face no tensile stresses are found unless for the earthquake loading conditions.
The highest compressive stresses are lower than the allowable ones.
The comparison between the rigid body and the Finite Element Analysis generally shows quite similar results
with more “flat” stress curves and peaks nearby toes in the FEM.
The sliding stability analysis has been carried out considering the potential sliding surfaces within the dam
structure at about 20 m of distance.
The results of the analysis confirm that the design characteristics of the roller compacted concrete dam
structure are adequate to guarantee the stability against sliding along the RCC dam constructions joints.
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The following table recalls the main results of the analysis for the most critical loading conditions :
LOADING CONDITIONS
POTENTIAL SLIDING NORMAL NORMAL OPERATING NORMAL OPERATING +
SECTION
SURFACE OPERATING + MCE INEFF. DRAINAGES
The most relevant lithological types found along the RCC gravity dam foundations are:
The river bed, being not yet fully investigated, has been conservatively modelled for this general stability
analysis adopting the SW-T mechanical properties in lieu of the U-T rock layer generally found.
While the left abutment shows a quite homogeneous unweathered trachyte outcropping, the right abutment
slope exposes SW-T with locally variable characteristics, related also to a slight hydrothermal alteration.
The structure of the rock mass if generally favourable for the foundations since no weak planes
subhorizontal, or subparallel to the dam excavations, were found.
The foundations geological structure study [11] indicates that relevant kinematically feasible modes of failure
along discontinuities ( i.e. joints, faults , etc. ) have currently not been found since the main joints sets are
sub-vertical being sub-parallel ( 75 / 280 ) and sub-orthogonal ( 80 / 000 ) to the Omo river.
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The strength of the concrete-rock contact is currently assumed analyzing tests results from existing dams.
Particularly conservative design parameters are adopted ( n.d.r. exceeded in more than 90 % of the dams
which include also some old dams with poor foundations treatment or rock quality ) as follows :
• c’ = 0.3 MPa
• φ’ = 50 °
Conservative assumptions are also adopted for this general stability assessment including :
• The dam-rock failure surface is assumed planar neglecting contribution from undulations
• Sliding strength of the surface below the plinth are not considered
• Rock wedges downstream and upstream of the dam foundations are not considered
The results of the sliding stability analysis indicate that the most critical condition is the normal operating, as
expected, because of the not large earthquakes loads and of the gated spillway ( n.d.r. which avoids critical
sliding conditions while flooding ).
LOADING CONDITIONS
POTENTIAL SLIDING NORMAL NORMAL OPERATING NORMAL OPERATING +
SECTION
SURFACE OPERATING + MCE INEFF. DRAINAGES
The results of the study therefore confirms that the general characteristics of the foundations are suitable
for the RCC gravity dam.
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12 REFERENCES
[2] EEPCO “Gibe III EPC Contract Amendment ( RCC DAM ) – Annex 2 - Design Criteria”, April 2008
[3] United States Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation, Design of Gravity Dams, 1976
[4] Italian code for dam design : “Norme tecniche per la progettazione e la costruzione delle dighe di
sbarramento”. Italian ministry of public works, March 1982
[5] Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, “Engineering guidelines for the evaluation of the
hydropower project – part 3 : Gravity dams ”, 2002
[7] EEPCO, Gibe III, Level 1 Design, “300 HYD RSP 002A sedimentation study report – April 2007”,
Studio Pietrangeli, Salini Costruttori
[8] Fell, MacGregor, Stapledon, Bell, “Geotechnical engineering of dams” pg. 693
[9] EEPCO, Gibe III, Level 1 Design, “300 GEN RBR 001A seismic hazard assessment – February
2007”, Salini Costruttori
[10] R. Fell, P Mac Gregor, D. Stapledon, G. Bell, “Geotechnical Engineering of dams”, Balkema, 2005
[11] EEPCO, Gibe III, Level 1 Design, “321 GEN R SP RMK 001 A, Dam foundations geotechnical report –
July 2008”, Studio Pietrangeli, Salini Costruttori
[12] EEPCO, Gibe III, Level 1 Design, “300 GEN RSP 005A RCC dam, Alternative 3 powerhouse on the
river bank– October 2007”, Studio Pietrangeli, Salini Costruttori
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