5.

1 Analysis of Gravity Dams

Intended Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the module, the students will be able to:

analyze problems regarding gravity dams; and

compute stresses acting on the foundation of the dams.

Introduction:
Dams are structures that block the flow of a river, stream, or other waterways. Some dams divert the
flow of river water into a pipeline, canal, or channel. Others raise the level of inland waterways to
make them navigable by ships and barges. It can also harness the energy of falling water to generate
electric power. Dams also hold water for drinking and crop irrigation and provide flood control.

Gravity Dams
Gravity dam is just one type of dams that can be made (others are, embankment dam, arch dam,
buttress dam, etc.)

Gravity dams use only the force of gravity to resist water pressure - that is, they hold back the water
by the sheer force of their weight pushing downward. To do this, gravity dams must consist of a mass
so heavy that the water in a reservoir cannot push the dam downstream or tip it over.

They are much thicker at the base than the top - a shape that reflects the distribution of the forces of
the water against the dam.
Analysis of Gravity Dams
A dam is subjected to hydrostatic forces due to water which is raised on its upstream side. These
forces cause the dam to slide horizontally on its foundation and overturn it about its downstream
edge or toe. These tendencies are resisted by friction on the base of the dam and gravitational forces
which causes a moment opposite to the overturning moment. The dam may also be prevented from
sliding by keying its base.
Live Discussion Notes:

Example-1 (https://tip.instructure.com/courses/17150/files/4616179/download)

Example-2 (https://tip.instructure.com/courses/17150/files/4616188/download)

Example-2b (https://tip.instructure.com/courses/17150/files/4616124/download)

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