Tag: gravity dam

Engineers consider stability controls such resistance to sliding and overturning when developing gravity dams. Allowable vertical strains at the dam’s heel and toe are other important characteristics. The width and height of the dam are two crucial design characteristics to consider. Dam stability can also be improved by adding...

Cutoff walls and drainage holes are a strategy for preventing piping or lowering the exit hydraulic pressure gradient or ground-water seepage. Cutoff walls in gravity dams are typically composed of concrete with a vertical geometry beneath the dam foundation. Engineers may choose an inclination of cutoff walls if it...