Module V: Stability Analysis of Gravity Dams

Lesson 29

Stability Analysis of Gravity Dams: Forces and General Requirements

A gravity dam is a solid structure, generally made of concrete or masonry,

constructed across a river to create a reservoir on its upstream. These dams
resist the various forces acting on it by its self weight and hence coined as the
gravity dam. A typical section of a solid gravity dam is shown in Figure 29.1.

Crest

Downstream
face

Structural
Upstream height
face
Hydraulic
Hydraulic height at
height at upstream
upstream

Base
Heel Toe

Figure 29.1

In this module we will learn different aspects of stability and design of concrete
gravity dam.

29.1 Different Forces on Gravity Dam

A gravity dam is subjected to the following forces.

29.1.1 Self weight of the dam

Self weight of a gravity dam is main stabilizing force.
 Module V: Stability Analysis of Gravity Dams

29.1.2 Water pressure

Water pressure on the upstream side (Figure 29.2) is the main destabilizing
force in gravity dam. Downstream side may also have water pressure. Though
downstream water pressure produces counter overturning moment, its
magnitude is much smaller as compared to the upstream water pressure and
therefore generally not considered in stability analysis.

hu

whu

Figure 29.2

29.1.3 Uplift water pressure

The uplift pressure is the upward pressure of water at the base of the dam as
shown in Figure 29.3. It also exists within any cracks in the dam.
 Module V: Stability Analysis of Gravity Dams

hd
hu

whd
whu

Figure 29.3

In addition to the above mentioned forces, a gravity dam may also subject to the
following forces.
Earth pressure
Wave pressure
Earthquake
Force due to Wind
Ice pressure
These forces have very little effect on the stability and therefore generally be
neglected in stability analysis.

29.2 General Requirement for Stability

A gravity dam may fail in the following modes,
 Module V: Stability Analysis of Gravity Dams

Overturning
Sliding
Compression
Tension
Therefore, the requirements for stability are,
The dam should be safe against overturning.
The dam should be safe against sliding.
The induced stresses (either tension or compression) in the dam or in the
foundation should not exceed the permissible value.

QUIZ

State whether the following statements are true (T) or false (F):

1. Gravity dam is a reinforced concrete (RC) structure.

2. Self weight of a gravity dam is main stabilizing force.

3. Hill is the bottom of gravity dam at the upstream face.

4. Uplift water pressure is uniform at the bottom of gravity dam.

5. Downstream water pressure causes over turning.

Answers: 1. F

2. T

3. T

4. F
5. F