MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF CICIL ENGINEERING

CE-5016 DESIGN OF HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES

(Second Semester Sample Questions and Worked Examples)

BE (CIVIL)

1
1.(a) Enumerate the various forces acting on a gravity dam.
(b)How would you determine the weight of the dam?
Solution for (a)
1. Forces Acting On Dam
(i) Weight of the dam
(ii) The thrust of the tail water.
2. Forces causing instability
(i) Reservoir water pressure
(ii) Uplift
(iii) Forces due to waves in the reservoir
(iv) Ice pressure
(v) Temperature stresses
(vi) Silt Pressure
(vii) Seismic forces
(viii) Wind pressure

Solution for (b)

The weight of the dam and concrete structure over it can be computed by taking
unit weight of concrete as 2.4 t/m3.The computations of weight of dam should allow for
the reduction due to openings of size larger than 1 m. Smaller openings may be neglected
for calculation of weight as well as stresses.
The weight of the structures constructed on the dam should be estimated with fair
amount of accuracy. These include the weight of gates gantry on the top of dam and
weight of towers roadway level.
The cross-section of the dam may be divided into several triangles and rectangles
and the weights W1, W2, W3 etc of each of these may be conveniently computed along
with their line action.
The total weight of the dam acts at the centre of gravity of the section.
2.(a)What is an elementary profile of a gravity dam?
Solution for 2.(a)
If we consider only hydrostatic force, the elementary profile will be triangular in
section having zero width at the water level where water pressure is zero ,and a maximum
base with where the maximum water acts.
Thus the section of the elementary profile is similar to the shape of hydrostatic
pressure distribution diagram.
The same profile will provide the maximum possible stabilizing force against
overturning without causing tension at the base. If any other triangular profile, other than

2
right angled one is provided, its will closed to the upstream face, which will cause tension
at the toe.

In the triangular profile the resultant, in case of empty reservoir condition, the
gravity load only acts at a distance of b/3 from the heel i.e; at the extreme upstream
middle third point

2(b) Derive an expression for the base width for dam safe against overturning ( no uplift
consider).

Solution for 2(b)

m
h
H 1

ωh mh

1 2
Moment of gravity force about toe = × mh × ω c × h ×
2 3mh
m 2ω c h 3
=
3
h
Moment of hydrostatic force about toe = 1/2 × ω × h 2 ×
3
ωh 3
=
6
ω =unit weight of water
wc=unit weight of concrete

3
 MR ≥ M0
MR = M0
m 2 ω c h 3 ωh 3
=
3 6
ω
m2 =
2ω c
ω 1
m= = = 0.456
2ω c 2 × 2 .4
minimum b = 0.456 h
3.( a ) How would you select the site for gravity dam.
Solution
Selection of Gravity Dam Site
A site for gravity dam is expected to satisfy the following requirements-(i) A narrow
gorge at dam site, opening up stream.
(ii) Sound rock able to resist static and dynamic forces including earth quakes.
(iii) Stable valley and abutment slopes.
(iv) Foundations having same value of elastic constants preferable.
(v) The foundations and reservoir walls watertight, resistant to erosion and other
detrimental effects of wetting, drying, freezing and thawing.
(vi) Good location for spillways and power house.
(vii) Availability of good construction material near by.
(viii)Proximity of construction facilities like electric supply, root and rail
communications etc.

3.( b ) Determine the uplift pressure force on a gravity dam of 40 m height, 10 m top
width, with U/S face vertical and the base width = 30 m. The tail water depth is 5 m and
the free board is 3 m. Determine the uplift pressure when there is a drainage galleny at a
distance of 6 m from U/S face.
Solution

4
 3m

6m

37 m
5m

30 m
u4 5ω
u2 u3
37 ω
2/3 (ωhu - ωhD ) = 209.28m

u1

1
u1 = × 6 × 209.28
2
= 627.84kN

u 2 = 6 × (362.97 − 209.28)
= 922.14kN

1
u3 = × 24 × 104.64 = 1255.68kN
2

u 4 = 24 × 49.05 = 1177.2kN

∴ Total uplift pressure = 3982.86 kN

4.( a ) What are the different assumptions made in the stability analysis of a gravity dam?
The following assumptions for the gravity analysis are made –
(i) The material in the foundation and in the body of dam is isotropic and
homogeneous.
(ii) The stresses in the foundation and the body of the dam are within elastic
limits.
(iii) No movements are caused in the foundations due to transference of the
load.

5
 (iv) The foundation and the dam behave as one unit, the joint being a perfect
one.
(v) No loads are transferred to the abutments by beam action.
(vi) The stability analysis of the dam based on considering a slice of the dam
one meter thick at the base line and contained between two vertical
planes normal to the base line.
(vii) Small openings are supposed to have a local effect only and according to
St. Venant’s principle, the openings would not affect the general
distribution.

4.( b ) Find the force and moment due to vertical earth quake acceleration of 0.1g on a
dam of 150 m height and 110 m width at base. The dam is trapezoidal in section, with top
width 10 m.
Solution
vertical earthquake acceleration ∞ = 0.1 g
dam height = 150 , base width = 110
10 m

150 m W1
W2

110 m
Item Particular and calculation Vertical Lever arm Moment(-) Moment(+)
Force (m) (t .m) (t.m)
(tons)(+)

1. W1 = 10 × 150 × 2.4 × 1m = 3600 3600 10/2=5m 18000

2. W2 = 1 / 2 × 100 × 150 × 2.4 × 1m = 18000 100/3+10 78000

3. PeV (W1 ) = 0.1 × 3600 -360 10/2 1800

4. PeV (W2 ) = 0.1 × 18000 -1800 100/3+10 78000

∑V = 19440t ∑ M = 718200t.m

6
5. Determine the forces due to self weight and water pressure on the non-overflow dam
shown in figure. Take specific weight of Wc = 24 kN/m3 and W = 9.81 N/m3

Solution

1
W1 = × 31.5 × 42 × 24
2
2
= 15876kN ( at a distance of 31.5 × = 21m from toe )
3

W2 = 7 × 56 × 24
7
=9408 kN (at a distance of 31.5 + = 35m from toe )
2

1
W3 = × 20 × 24 × 20
2
= 480 kN (at a distance of 39.17 m )

Water pressure
1 2
Pw = wh
2
1
= × 9.81 × (53) 2
2
53
= 13778kN / m 2 ( at a distance of m from the base )
3
Vertical force

7
 Pv1 = 2 × 33 × 9.81
= 647.46kN ( acting a distance of 39.5 m from the toe )
1
Pv 2 = × 2 × 20 × 9.81
2
= 196.2kN ( acting at a distance of 39.5 m from the toe )
Drownstream

1 2 1
Ph = wh = × 9.81 × (15) 2
2 2
15
= 1104kN / m 2 ( acting at a distance of above the base )
3
1
Pv = × 11.25 × 15 × 9.81
2
11.25
= 82.8kN ( at a distance of from the toe )
3

6.( a ) For the overflow section shown in figure, determine the horizontal force due to
water pressure on the upstream face. Take velocity of the approach as 3 m/s.

T.E.L
Ha
5m

3m

27 m 22 m

8
Solution

T.E.L
Ha
5m
ω ( Ha + H1 )

3m
PH1

27 m 22 m

PH2

ω ( H2 – H1 )
Va2 32
Ha = = = 0.46m
2 g 2 × 9.81

PH 1 = ( H 1 + H a )( H 2 − H 1 )ω
= (5 + 0.46)(27 − 5)9.81
22
= 1178kN ( acting at a distance of above the base )
2

1
PH 2 = × ( H 2 − H 1 )ω × 22
2
1
= (27 − 5)9.81 × 22
2
22
= 2374kN ( acting at a distance of above the base )
3

∴ Horizontal Force PH = PH 1 + PH 2
= 1178 + 2374
= 3552kN

9
6.( b ) Write short notes on (i) keys (ii) water stops
(i) Keys
Provision of shear keys in joints enables transfer of stress from one
block to the other through shear. These days such keys are given in longitudinal joints.

(ii) Water stops

The water stops are provided in transverse joints and forsupporting
the flow of water into the joint and for stopping the flow of grout outside it. Tht function
of the water stops in longitudinal joint is to retain the grout. The copper water stops are
usually used. Recently monel water stops are used.
The usual practice is provide two water stops of copper and monel with asphalt seal
between. The longitudinal joints are provided with Z type and transverse joints are
provided with U or M type seal. Construction joints are provided with A or Z type seal.
The purpose of the seal is to limit the travel of asphalt along the joints.

7. For the overflow section shown in figure, determine the dynamic force on the curved.
Take the coefficient of dischange of the spillway as 2.1 and the radius of the bucket as
4 m.

10
 Q = C d Le H e3 / 2
q × 1 = 2.1 × 1 × (1.5) 3 / 2
= 3.86m 3 / s / m

Let d1 and d2 be the thick of sheet of water and v1 and v2 be their velocities.

q = v1 d1 = v 2 d 2

Applying Bernoulis’ Equation

v12
P + H d = 2 + d1 cos θ +
2g
(q / d ) 2
12 + 1.5 = 2 + d1 cos 60 +
2g
(3.86) 2 1
13.5 = 2 + d1 cos 60 + ×
d12
2 × 9.81

d1 = 0.259m
q = v1d1
3.85 = v1 × 0.259
v1 = 14.86m / s

v 22
P + H d = d2 +
2g
(q / d 2 ) 2
12 + 1.5 = d 2 +
2g

11
 3.85 2
= d2 +
d 22 × 2 × 9.81

d 2 = 0.239m

q = v2 d 2

v 2 = 16.12m / s
weight of water in the control volume

2πrθ (d1 + d 2 )
W= ×ω
360 2

2 × π × 4 × 60 ⎛ o.259 + 0.2239 ⎞
= ⎜ ⎟ × 9.81
360 ⎝ 2 ⎠

= 10.23kN

F1 = 0.5ωd12 cos 60
= 0.5 × 9.81× (0.259) 2 × cos 60
= 0.17 kN

F2 = 0.5ωd 22
= 0.5 × 9.81× (0.239) 2
= 0.28kN

∑ FH = ρ Q(v 2 − v1 )
10
= (q × 1)(v2 − v1 )
g
9.81
= (3.86)(16.12 − 14.86 cos 60)
9.81
= 33.54kN (→ +)

∑ FH = F1 cosθ + PH/ − F2
= 0.17 cos 60 + PH/ − 0.28
PH/ = 33.75kN (towards d/s)

∑ Fv (↑ +) = ρQ(v2 − v1 )
ω
= (q × 1)(v2 − (v1 sin θ ))
g

12
 9.81
= (3.86)(0 + v1 sin θ )
9.81

9.81
∑ Fv = (3.86)(14.86 sin θ )
9.81
= 49.67kN (↑ +)

Pv / − W − F1 sin θ = 49.67
Pv / = 49.67 + 10.23 + 0.17 sin 60
Pv / = 70.1kN

8. Check the stability of the overflow section of the gravity dam shown in figure. Assume
the weight of concrete, gates, piers, water over crest etc, 3 × 104 kN. Moment of the
weight of concrete, gates, piers and over crest, etc. about toe=106 kN-m. Neglect all force
other than weight uplift pressure. Take μ = 0.75and q=1400 kN/m2.

13
Solution

No. Items and Calculation V.F H.F Lever arm Moment Moment
+ -
-M +M
+ -

1. W=all weight due to 30000 - - - 1x106

concrete, gate, piers and
water over crest
2. PV’=1/2x20x18x9.81 1766 18/3 - 10596
3. PH’=1/2x9.81x20x20 - -1962 20/3 - 13080
4. PH1=40x20x9.81 7848 - 40/2 156960 -
5. PH2=1/2x40x40x9.81 - 7848 40/3 10460 -
6. U1 = 1/2x26.7x8x9.81 -1048 - 47+(8)x2/3 54845 -
7. U2 = 8x33.3x9.81 -2613 - 47+8/2 133263 -
8. U3 = 1/2x13.3x47x9.81 -3066 - 47x2/3 96068 -
9. U4 = 47x20x9.81 -9221 - 47/2 216694 -

Total 15818 13734 762470 1023676

Resultant moment = 261206 kN-m

∑ M 261206
e/ = =
∑V 15818
= 16.5m
B 55
e = e / − = 16.5 − = −11m
2 2
Vertical stresses
W ⎛ 6e ⎞
σ ZD = ⎜1 + ⎟
b⎝ b⎠
15818 6 × 11
= (1 + )
55 55
= 632kN / m 2

14
 W ⎛ 6e ⎞
σ ZU = ⎜1 + ⎟
b⎝ b⎠
15818 6 × 11
= (1 − )
55 55
= −58kN / m 2
∑V
Coefficient of sliding = 0.87 > 0.75
∑H
∴ Shear friction factor may be considered.
f ∑ V + rSA
S .F .F =
∑H
0.7 × 15858 + 1400 × 55 × 1
= = 6.41
13734
Principal stresses
σ PD = σ ZD (1 + tan 2 φ ) − ωhD tan 2 φ
= 632(1 + 0.9 2 ) − 9.81× 20 × 0.9 2 = 984.9kN / m 2

σ PU = σ ZU (1 + tan 2 φ )ωhU tan 2 φ

= 58(1 + 0) − 60(0) = 58kN / m 2
Shear stresses

τ ZD = (σ ZD − ωhD ) tan φ
= (632 − 20 × 9.81) × 0.9 = 392kN / m 2
τ DU = 0 .

9.Check the stability of the non-overflow section of a gravity dam with the following
data.
(i) R.L of deepest foundation level = 100 m
(ii) R.L of roadway at the top of dam = 161 m
(iii) Maximum pond level = 152 m
(iv) Roadway width at the top = 6.1 m
(v) U/S face of dam = vertical
(vi) D/S face of dam = 0.9 : 1
(vii) weight of concrete = 2.4 t/m3
(viii) safe bearing capacity = 15 kg/cm2
Consider Drains Chocked and No Earthquake.

15
 Solution

No Particular and Calculation V.F H.F Lever Moment Moment

+ - arm M- M+

+ -

1. Weight
1 4018.68 - 54.9 73541.84 -
W1 = × 54.9 × 61 × 2.4
2 3
2. 1 49.19 - 2 200.2 -
W2 = × 6.1 × 6.72 × 2.4 6.1 ×
2 3

3. Water Thrust
Pw = 1 / 2 × (52) 2 × 1 - 1352 52 23430.16 -
3
4. Uplift Force
54.9
1 -1427.4 - - 26121.42
U 1 = × 54.9 × 52 3
2

Total 2640.47 1352 97172.2 26121.42

16
Check overturning
∑ M 71050.78
e/ = =
∑V 2640.47
= 26.9m. > 18.3m and < 36 m
Check sliding
∑H 1352
f = = = 0.51 < 0.75
∑ V 2640.47
∴ Shear friction factor must not considered.
Check bearing capacity
b
e = e/ −
2
54.9
= 26.9 − = −0.55m
2
Vertical stress
∑V 6e
σ= (1 ± )
b b
2640.47 6(−0.55)
σU = (1 − )
54.9 54.9
=50.99 t/m2
= 5.1 kg/cm2 < 15kg/cm2
2640.47 ⎛ 6(−0.55) ⎞
σD = ⎜1 + ⎟
54.9 ⎝ 54.9 ⎠
= 45.20 t/m2
= 4.52 kg/cm2 < 15 kg/cm2
Principal stress
σ PD = σ D (1 + tan 2 φ )
= 4.52(1 + (0.9) 2 ) = 8.2kg / cm 2
σ PU = σ U = 5.1kg / cm 2

10. A concrete gravity dam has the following data.

_ R.L of maximum water level = 152m

17
 _ R.L of bed level = 100m
_ R.L of top of dam = 161m
_ Roadway width at the top = 6.1m
_ The downstream slope of 0.9: 1 starts at R.L of 123.9m
_ The upstream face is vertical
_ Centre line of the drainage gallery = 7m ( from the upstream face).
_Weight of concrete = 2.4 t/m3
_Shearing resistance of concrete =210 t/m2
_ Safe bearing capacity = 150 t/m2
Consider (i) own weight of the dam
(ii) water pressure at maximum water level
(iii) no tail water
(iv) uplift
(v) wave force (hw=1.5m)

(vi) earthquake (Horizontal seismic coefficient 0.2g towards U/S and Vertical
seismic coefficient 0.1g acting upward).
Check whether the failure criteria are OK (or) NOT.

Solution:

18
No Particular and Calculations V.F H.F Lever Momemt Mome
+ - + - arm M(-) mt
M(+)

1. Weight
1
W1 = × 54.9 × 61 × 2.4 4018.68 - 73541.84 -
2 54.9
3

1 2
2. W2 = × 6.1 × 6.72 × 2.4 49.19 - × 6.1 200.2 -
2 3

WaterThrust
1 52
3. PW = × 1 × 52 × 52 - 1352 23430.16 -
2 3

Uplift
4. 1 -121.35 - 7 - 282.75
U 1 = × 34.67 × 7
2 3

5. U 2 = 7 × 17.33 -121.31 - 7 - 424.59

2
1
6. U3 = × 47.9 × 17.33 -s415.05 -
2 47.9
7+ - 9533.7
3

Hydrodynamic Force

Peh = 00.726 Peh

7. - 286.54
= 0.726 × 7.59 × 52 -
- -

8. Meh = 0.3Peh 2 6157.07 -

= 0.3 × 7.59 × 52 × 52 -
- -

Inertia force due to

9. Horizontal Earthquake

19
 Peh(W1 ) = ∞ hW1
= 0.2 × 4018.68 - 803.74 61 1634.0.3 -
3
10. Peh(W2 ) = ∞ hW2
- 9.84 6.72
= 0.2 × 49.19 61 − 578.198 -
3

Inertia force due to Vertical

Earthquake
52
- 135.2 2343.06 -
11. Pev = 0.1 × 1352 = 135.2 3

12. Pev(W1 ) = 0.1 × 4018.68 401.86 - 54.9 7354.22 -

3
13. Pev(W2 ) = 0.1 × 49.14 4.92 - 2 20.02 -
6.1 ×
3
Wave Force

14. Pwave = 2ω (hw) 2

- 4.5 3
hw + hu 236.7 -
8

.
Total 3816.94 2591.82 -119960.46

∑ V = 3816.95
∑ H = 2591.82
∑ M = 119960.46
Check overturning

∑ M 119960.46
e′ = = = 31.48
∑V 3816.95

Check sliding

∑ H 2591.82
f = =
∑ V 3816.95
=0.68 < 0.75 (OK)

20
 Check bearing capacity

b 54.9
e = e′ − = 31..42 −
2 2
= 3.97

Vertical stress
∑V 6e
σ= (1 ± )
b b
∑V 6e
σD = (1 + )
b b
= 99.69 t/m2 < 150 t/m2
σ U = 39.36 t/m2 < 150 t/m2

Principal stress
σ PD = σ D (1 + tan 2 φ )
= 99.67 (1+0.92)
=180.40 t/m2

σ PU = σ U = 39.36 t/m2

11. Derive an expression for the base width for dam safe against overturning on full base
width.

Solution

21
h m

1
H W

mh

ωh

Uplift force U = mh × ωh = mωh 2

mh m 2ωh 3
Moment of U about toe = mωh 2 × =
2 2
ωh 2
Hydrostatic Force H =
2

ωh 2 h
Momemt of H about toe = ×
2 3
ωh 3
=
6

1
Gravity Force W = × mh × h × ω C
2
ω mh 2
= C
2
ω mh 2 2
Moment of W about toe = C × mh
2 3
ωC m 2 h 3
=
3
Resisting Momemt ≥ Overturning Momemt
MR = M O

22
 m 2ω C h 3 ωh 3 m 2ωh 3
= +
3 6 2
⎛ω ω⎞ ω
m2 ⎜ C − ⎟ =
⎝ 3 2⎠ 6
ω
m=
2ω C − 3ω
1
m=
2(2.4) − 3(1)
m= 0.745
∴ minimum b = 0.745h

12. Derive an expression for the base width for dam safe against overturning on uplift
considered.

Solution

m
h W
1
H

mh
ωh

1 ωh 2
Hydrostatic Force H = × ωh × h =
2 2
ωh h ωh 3
2
Moment of H about toe = × =
2 3 6
1 ωmh 2
Uplift Force U = × ωh × mh =
2 2

23
 ωmh 2 2 ωm 2 h 3
Momemt of U about toe = × mh =
2 3 3
1
Gravity Force W = × mh × h × ω C
2
ω C mh 2
=
2
ω mh 2 2
Moment of W about toe = C × mh
2 3
ω m h2 3
= C
3

Resisting Momemt ≥ Overturning Momemt

MR = M O

m 2ω C h 3 ωh 3 m 2ωh 3
= +
3 6 3

ω 1
m= = = 0.598
2(ω C − ω ) 2(2.4 − 1)

∴ minimum b =0.598 h

13. Derive an expression for the base width of dam for no sliding criterion.

Sloution

Dam Safe Against Sliding (No Uplift Considered).

24
 H
W

1 ωh 2
Hydrostatic Force = ωh × h =
2 2
1
Gravity Force W = × mh × h × ω C
2
ω C mh 2
=
2
∑H
≤ 0.75
∑V

∑H
= 0.75
∑V
H
= 0.75
W

ωh 2 1
= 0.75( mω C h 2 )
2 2
ω
m=
0.75ω C
1
=
0.75(2.4)
= 0.556
∴ minimum=0.556h

Dam Safe Against Sliding (Uplift Considered).

25
 m
h W
H 1

ωh mh

1 ωh 2
Hydrostatic Force = ωh × h =
2 2

1
Gravity Force W = × mh × h × ω C
2
ω C mh 2
=
2
1 ωmh 2
Uplift Force U = × ωh × mh =
2 2

∑H
≤ 0.75
∑V
∑H
= 0.75
∑V
H
= 0.75
W −U

H = 0.75 (W-U)

26
 ωh 2 1
= 0.75( )mh 2 (ω C − ω )
2 2
ω 1
m= =
0.75(ω C − ω ) 0.75(2.4 − 1)
m = 0.925

∴ minimum b = 0.952 h

14. Derive an expression for the base width of dam for no tension (Uplift No
Considered).

Solution

Stress due to Gravity load only

W
Ь/3 e

Ь/2 N. A

b b b
e= − =
2 3 6

W 6e W 6×b \ 6
σ ZU = (1 + ) = (1 − )
b b b b

27
 2W
=
b

2 × 1 / 2 × mh 2 × ω C
=
mh
= ω C h ( Compression )

W 6e
σ ZD = (1 − )
b b

W 6×b/6
= (1 − )
b b
= 0
Stress due to Hydrostatic

b/2

MC/I T
C MC/I

1 unit

MC
σ ZU =
I
M = H x h/3

ωh 2 h ωh 3
= × =
2 3 6

28
 bd 3 1 × b 3
I = =
12 12
b
C=
2
MC ωh 3 × b × 12
σ ZU = =
I 6 × 2 × b3

ωh 3
=
b2
ωh 3 ωh
= 2
= 2 ( Tension )
(mh) m
ωh
σ ZD = 2 ( Compression )
m
For combined effect

ωh
ωC h − =0
m2
ωh
= ωC h
m2
ω 1
m = =
ωC 2 .4
= 0.645
∴ minimum b = 0.645 h

15. Derive an expression for the base width of dam for no tension (Uplift Considered).

Solution
Stress due to Gravity load only

W 6e W 6×b \ 6
σ ZU = (1 + ) = (1 − )
b b b b
2W
=
b

2 × 1 / 2 × mh 2 × ω C
=
mh
= ω C h ( Compression )

29
 W 6e
σ ZD = (1 − )
b b

W 6×b/6
= (1 − )
b b
= 0

Stress due to Hydrostatic

MC
σ ZU =
I
M = H x h/3

ωh 2 h ωh 3
= ×=
2 3 6
bd 3
1× b 3
I = =
12 12
b
C=
2
MC ωh 3 × b × 12
σ ZU = =
I 6 × 2 × b3

ωh 3
=
b2
ωh 3 ωh
= 2
= 2 ( Tension )
(mh) m
ωh
σ ZD = 2 ( Compression )
m

Stress due to Uplift

30
 W 6e
σ ZU = (1 + )
b b
W 6×b/6
= (1 + )
b b
2W
=
b
2 × 1 / 2 × mh 2ω
=
mh
= ωh (Tension )

W 6e
σ ZD = (1 − )
b b

W 6×b/6
=
(1 − )
b b
= 0 (Compression )

For combined effect

⎛ ωh ⎞
ωC h − ⎜ 2
+ ωh ⎟ = 0
⎝m ⎠

ωh
− = −ω C h + ωh
m2

ωh
m2 =
ω C h − ωh

ω 1
m= =
ωC − ω 2 .4 − 1
= 0.845
∴ minimum b =0.845 h

16. A concrete gravity dam has the following ddata:

_ Maximum water level = 300
_Bed level = 220

31
 _R.L top of dam = 304
_The D/S slope of 0.67 : 1 starts at R.L of 295
_ U/S face is vertical
_ Centre line of the drainage = 8 m ( from the U/S face )
Consider only weight, water pressure and uplift. Calcuate the maximum vertical stresses
at the toe and heel of the dam, assuming 100% uplift pressure at the heel and 50 % at the
gallery and zero at the toe.

Solution

No Particular and Calculation V.F H.F Lever Momemt Momemt

+ - + - arm M- M+

32
 Weight

1
1. W1 = × 56.28 × 84 × 2.4 5673 - 106246 -
2 56.28
3

1
2. W2 = × 6.03 × 9 × 2.4 65.124 -
2 2
6.03 × 262 -
3
Water Thrust
3.
1 80
Pw = × 1 × 80 × 80 3200 85333 -
2 3

Uplift
8
4. 1 -1610 - 3 - 427
U1 = × 40 × 8
2

5. 1 8
U2 = ×8
2 -320 - 2 - 1280

1 48.28
6. U3 = × 40 × 48.28 -966 - 8+ 23275
2 3

Total 4292.1 3200 -167039

24

∑M 167039
e′ = = = 38.92m = 39m
∑V 4292.124

b
e = e′ − = 11m
2
W ⎛ 6e ⎞ 4292 ⎛ 6 × 11 ⎞
σ ZD = ⎜1 + ⎟ = ⎜1 + ⎟
b⎝ b ⎠ 56.28 ⎝ 56.28 ⎠

33
 = 165.69 t/ m2
= 16.6 kg/cm2
W ⎛ 6e ⎞ 4292 ⎛ 6 × 11 ⎞
σ ZU = ⎜1 + ⎟ = ⎜1 + ⎟
b⎝ b ⎠ 56.28 ⎝ 56.28 ⎠

= -1.32 kg/cm2

σ PD = σ ZD (1 + tan 2 φ ) = 16.6(1 + 0.67 2 )

= 24.05 kg/cm2
σ PU = σ U
∴ Maximum vertical stress σ ZD = 16.6kg / cm 2 and σ ZU = −1.32kg / cm 2

17. What are the different types of joints in a gravity dam? Discuss the methods of their
construction and their advantages.

Solution

Different types of joints in a gravity dam are (i) Transverse joint (ii)
Longitudinal joint (iii) Construction joint

(i) Transverse joint

Transverse joints are 12 m to 18 m center apart usual spacing being 15 m.

These joints are man made crack which allow contraction of the concrete on the two
sides to relieve thermal stress.
The edge of the transverse joint at the face are chamfered to give a
pleasing appearance and to avoid spalling.
Such chamfer are 4 × 4 cm on non overflow blocks and 2 × 2 cm on d/s of
the overflow blocks.

(ii) Longitudinal joint

Longitudinal joints are provided to prevent uncontrolled cracks. These

serve the same purpose in one blocks of the dam as tranverse joint. These joint spacing
varying from 15 m to 30 m, where the joints are turned to the face to avoid feather edging
of concrete.

34
 A gap is often provided at the inclined portion of the joint which is latter
decay packed. Extension of longitudinal joints in the U/S face should be terminated at a
minimum 4 m to 5 m from the face. These joints are staggered in adjacent blocks.

(iii) Construction joint

Concrete is placed in the dam in lift which are generally 1.5 m high. To
develop proper bond between the lift, the lift face is freed of all laitance, coatings,
stains,defective concrete and all foreign material and the surface is roughened.

18. What are the various types of earth dam according to the section of the dam? What
types of section is commonly used in practice and why?

Earth dam may be classified into three main tyes:

(i) Homogeneous type
(ii) Zoned type
(iii) Diaphragm type

Zoned type is commonly used in practice. Zoned type is the most common type
dam section in which a central impervious core is flanked be shells of materials
considerably more previous.
The shells enclosed and protect the core; the U/S shell affords stability against
rapid drawdown and the D/S shells acts as a drain that controls the line seepage.
For most effective control of steady seepage, the section should have a
progressive increase in permeability from the centre towards each slope.
The width of core in the zoned type can be chosen within reasonable limit to meet
the best adjustment in the quantity and the cost of impervious soils available.
The minimum width should be adequate to reduce seepage and permit ease of
construction.
The minimum base width should be equal to the height of the embankment. If the
width is less than the height of the embankment, the dam is considered as diaphragm
type.
Similarly if the core is larger than the size, the dam may be considered as
homogeneous type.

35
 19 For the homogenous dam section shown in figure, draw the phreatic line if a
horizontal filter of length 10 m is provided. Also determined discharge per m length of
dam if K = 10-5 m/sec.

6m
3m
2.5 1.5

1 1
h = 22 m

10 m
100 m

Solution

h = 22m
L = 22 × 2.5 = 55m
0.3L = 0.3 × 55 = 16.5m
d = 16.5 + (3 × 2.5) + 6 + (1.5 × 25) − 10 = 57.5m
y0 = d 2 + h 2 − d
= 57.5 2 + 22 2 − 57.5 = 4.06m

x 10 20 30 40 57.5
y 9.88 13.3 16.17 18.4 22

36
Discharge per meter length q = Kyo

q = 10 −5 × 4.06
= 4.06 × 10 −5 m 2 / sec

20. Discuss the various causes failures of earth dam. How would you prevent different
types of faiure?

Solution

Earth dam failures are caused by improper design frequently based on insufficient
investigations and lack of care in construction and maintenance.
Earth dam failures can be grouped into the following basic causes:
( I )Hydraulic failures
( II ) Seepage failures
( III ) Structural failures

( I ) Hydraulic failures

Hydraulic failures are caused by washing out from overtopping, wave erosion of
U/S face, scour from discharge of the spillway etc and erosion from rainfall.
To prevent hydraulic, the following condition are satisfied.
(a) The spillway capacity is sufficient to pass the peak flow.
(b) Oveertopping by wave action at max; water level is prevented.
(c) The original height of structure should be maintained the minimum safe
freeboard after settlement has occurred.
(d) Erosion of the embankment due to wave action and surface run off does not
occurred.
(e) The crest wide enough to withstand wave action and earthquake shocks.

( II ) Seepage Failures

Seepage failures are caused by

(a) Pervious foundation
(b) Leakage through embankment
(c) Leakage conduit
(d) Sloughing
To prevent seepage failures; the following condition are satisfied.
(a) Quantity of seepage water through dam andfoundation be limited.
(b) The seepage line should be well within d/s face of the dam to prevent
sloughing.

37
 (c) The seepage water through the dam foundation should not remove any
failures.
(d) There should not beany leakage of water from u/s face to d/s face.

( III ) Structural failure

Structural failures of the embankment or its foundation account for about one fifth
of the total number of failures may result in slides in foundation or embankment due to
various causes.
To prevent structural failures, the embankment and its foundation must be stable
under all conditions. This implies that –
(a) The upstream and downstream slopes of the embankment should be stable
under all looding conditions to which they may be subjected including
earthquake.
(b) The foundation shear stresses should be within the permissible limits of shear
strength of the material.

21.(a) How would you prevent piping failure in an earth dam?

Piping failure in an earth dam may be prevented by controlling seepage of water

through foundations.
The suitability of the method of treatment depends primarily on the nature of
foundation.
( 1 ) Grouting and grout curtain
( 2 ) Cut off trenches
( 3 ) Partial cut off
( 4 ) Sheet piling cut off
( 5 ) Cement bound curtain cut off
( 6 ) Cast in situ concrete diaphragm
( 7 ) Upstream blanket
( 8 ) Pressure relief wells

21 (b) Figure show the cross-section of an earth dam. Draw the phreatic line, and
calculate the seepage through the body of the dam. Take K = 10-6 m/s.

38
 h = 27 m
L = (3 × 27) = 81m
0.3L = (0.3 × 81) = 24.3m
d = 24.3 + (3 × 3) + 8 + (2.5 × 30) − 30
d = 86.3m

y0 = d 2 + h2 − d
= (86.3) 2 + (27) 2 − 86.3
= 4.13m

q = Ky 0
= 10 −6 × 4.13
q = 4.13 × 10 −6 m 3 / s / m

at x = 10 ⇒ y = 2 xy 0 + y 02
y = 9.98

x = 20 ⇒ y = 13.5
x = 30 ⇒ y = 16.2
x = 40 ⇒ y = 18.6
x = 50 ⇒ y = 20.7
x = 57.5 ⇒ y = 22.6

39
 22. What is a phreatic line? What is its use? How would you locate the phreatic line in an
earth dam with a horizontal drainage filter? What is entry correction?

The phreatic line may be defined as the line within a dam section below which
there are positive hydrostatic line represents the top flow line or the boundary condition
for drawing the flow net.
The location of the phreatic line is necessary in order to draw accurately the flow
net. It is also useful in analyzing stability of the dam.

Phreatic line with horizontal drainage filter

(i) The horizontal distance between upstream toe A and the point B where
water surface meets the upstream face is calculated or measured ( Say L ).
The point Bo is then located at a distance 0.3 L from B.
(ii) The basic parabola has to pass through Bo and have its focus at F which is
the starting point of the horizontal drainage. With these points known the
basic parabola may be constructed graphically.
(iii) With centre Bo and radius BoF, draw an arc to meet line at C. Draw the
vertical line CD which is the driectrix. Let FD, the focal distance = yo
.Bisect the distance FD to get the point E, the vertex of the parabola. Draw
FG parallel to CD and equal to yo. Knowing Bo, G, and E the basic
parabola can be drawn.

The focal distance yo can also be determined on the consideration that if ( x, y ) is

one point on the parabola.
x 2 + y 2 = x + yo
Since the point Bo of co-ordinates ', h lies on the equation y o = d 2 + h 2 − d
(iv) The ingress portion of phreatic line is joined to the base parabola from
point B, keeping the starting end normal to the U/s face. .

40
 23. Discuss leakage through embankment , conduit leakage and sloughing.
Solution:
Leakage Through Embankment
The following are the common causes of embankment leaks which lead to piping.
(i) Poor construction control which includes insufficient compacting adjacent to
outlet conduits and poor bond between embankment and the foundation or
between the successive layers of the embankment.
(ii) Cracking in the embankment or in the conduits caused by foundation settlement.
(iii) Animal burrows.
(iv) Shrinkage and dry cracks.
(v) Presence of roots, pocket of graved or boulders in the embankment.

Conduit Leakage
Conduits though the dam have been responsible for nearly one third of the
seepage failure and more than one eighth of all failures. Failures the outside of two types
(i) contact seepage along the outside of the conduit which develop into piping and (ii)
seepage though leaks in the conduit which may also develop into piping.
Contact seepage along the conduit wall is caused either by a zone of poorly
compacted soil or small gap bet; the conduit and remainder of the embankment. Seepage
through poorly compacted zones soon develops into piping.
Conduit cracking is caused by differential settlement or by overloading from
embankment.

Sloughing
Failure due to sloughing takes place where downstream portion of the dam
becomes saturated either due to chocking of filter toe drain, or due to the presence of
highly pervious layer in the body of the dam. The process begins when a small amount
of material at the downstream toe is eroded and produces a small slide. It leaves a
relatively steep face which becomes saturated by seepage from the reservoir and slumps
again, forming a higher and more unstable face. This process is continued until the
remaining portion of the dam is too thin to withstand the water pressure and failure
occurs.

24. A homogenous earth dam 25 m high has a crest width of 8 m, U/S slope 4:1 and D/S
slope 3:1 in figure. The foundation consists of soft day up to a depth of 10 m and beneath
that there is a rigid boundary. Check the stability of foundation against shear for the U/S
portion of dam.
Assume the following properties.
( a ) Dam material, saturated unit weight 20 kN/m3, φ = 25 , c = 20kN/m2.
( b ) Foundation, saturated unit weight 21 kN/m3, φ = 10 and c = 50 kN/m2.
Take specific weight of water = 10 kN/m3.

41
 Solution
For dam material,
v1 = 35m
h2 = 10m
rw = 10kN / m 3

S=
( )
r h12 − h22 ⎛ φ ⎞
tan 2 ⎜ 45 − 1 ⎟
2 ⎝ 2⎠
⎡ C + rh1 tan φ ⎤
Equivalent φ = tan −1 ⎢ ⎥
⎣ rh1 ⎦
⎡ 20 + 20 × 35 × tan 25 ⎤
= tan −1 ⎢ ⎥⎦
⎣ 30 × 25
= 26.3
20(35 2 − 10 2 ) 2 ⎛ 26.3 ⎞
Horizontal shear force S = tan ⎜ 45 − ⎟
2 ⎝ 2 ⎠
= 4341.7 kN
S
Average shear stress S a =
b ×1
4341.7
=
100 × 1
= 43.42kN / m 2
Maximum shear stress 1.4 S a = 1.4 × 43.42 = 60.79kN / m 2

Maximum shear stress ( location ) = 0.4b

= 0.4 × 100 = 40m
For foundation level

42
 4
1

15 m

10 m

r / = rsat − rw = 21 − 10 = 11kN / m 2
σ = r1 z1 + r / z
= (15 × 20 ) + (10 × 11)
= 410kN / m 2
Shear strength τ = C + σ tan φ
= 50 + 410 tan 10
= 122.29kN / m 2 > max imum shear stress 60.75 kN/m2
∴ OK

25. Classify type of foundation according to predominant characteristics. What are the
essential requirement of a foundation for an earth dam?

Solution

The essential rrequirement of a foundation for an earth dam are (i) that it
provides stable support for the embankment under all conditions of saturation and
loading, and (ii) that it provides sufficient resistance to seepage to prevent piping and
excessive loss of water.
In general foundations may be grouped into three main classes according to
their predominant characteristics.
(1) Rock Foundation
(2) Pervious Foundation
(3)Impervious Foundation

(1)Rock Foundation

These foundations, including shales generally do not present any problem of

bearing strength. The principal considerations are erosive leakage, excessive loss of water
through joints, fissures, crevices, permeable strata and along fault planes, etc. Grouting is
usually done to treat this type of foundation.

43
 (2)Pervious Foundation

Often the foundation for each dam consists of recent alluvial deposits
composed of relatively pervious sand and gravels overlying impervious geological
formations like rock or clay. There are two basic problems with which these types of
foundations are associated viz. (i) excessive amount of under seepage and (ii) piping and
boils caused by forces exerted due to seepage.
The treatment which may be provided to control these problem is governed by
the thickness of pervious strata viz, whether the pervious foundation extend to a moderate
depth or to an infinite depth.
Loose fine sand or coarse silt deposits in foundation present one of the most
difficult problems. The difficulty arises not only due to low strength or high
compressibility of the loose sand, but also through a phenomenon known as liquefaction.
A certain fine uniform sand in a shear strength and behaves as through it were a heavy
viscous fluid. This phenomenon is exhibited by uniform sands which are very fine and
consists of rounded grains and their relative density is less than 50%.

(3)Impervious Foundation

Foundation of silt and clay extending to large depths are sufficiently

impermeable to preclude the necessity of providing treatment for under seepage and
piping. The main problem with these, foundation may be excessive pore water pressure
and significant deformations.
Where the embankments are constructed on foundations consisting of brittle,
highly plastic or over consolidated clays, serious investigation are required as their
presence may cause excessive deformations. The embankment design in such cases
would be controlled by likely strains in the foundations. If there is silt and clay to large
depths, then there is not much necessity of providing treatment for under seepage and
piping. The main problem with these foundations is of stability for which generally the
slopes of the embankments are made flatter or berms on either side are provided.
If the structure crosses swampy or similar area where the foundation material
will be of plastic nature, the matter would require serious investigation as plastic clays
are very deficient in shear strength.

26. Find the discharge through the embankment section shown in fir; it length 400 m,
impounding 30 m head of water and coefficient of permeability of the material
composing embankment is 20× 10-5 m/s. Also find the hydrostatic pressure at point C , if
it is located 2.5 m above D/S bottom level.

44
Solution

N f = 3, N d = 9
Q = q × length
Nf
q = KH
Nd
3
= 2 × 10 −5 × 30 ×= 2 × 10 − 4 m 2 / s
9
Hydrostatic pressure at point C , μ C = ?
μ C = hw rw
hw = φ − z
φ = h − nΔh
30
= 30 − 5 × = 13.35
9
∴ hw = 13.35 − 2.5 = 10.85m
μ C = 10.85 × 9.81 = 106.44kN / m 2

∴ the discharge Q = 0.08m3/s

Hydrostatic pressure at point C = 106.44 kN/m2

27. Check the stability of the foundation against shear for U/S portion of the dam shown
in figure.

45
 Shell material
core material
3.5
r = 2 t/m3
r = 1.76 t/m3 3
1 1 C=0
1 C=3 1
h1 = 75 m
1
1 Ø = 33
Ø = 12

r = 1 t/m3
h2 = 15 m
C=0
Foundation
Ø = 33

Solution
For core material
C =3
r = 1.76t / m 3
φ = 12
⎡ C + rh1 tan φ ⎤
Equivalent φ = tan −1 ⎢ ⎥
⎣ rh1 ⎦
⎡ 3 + 1.76 × tan 12 ⎤
= tan −1 ⎢ = 13.24
⎣ 1.76 × 75 ⎥⎦
For shell material
C=0
r = 2t / m 3
φ = 33
⎡ C + rh tan φ ⎤
Equivalent φ = tan −1 ⎢ ⎥⎦
⎣ rh
⎡ 2 + 36 × tan 33 ⎤
= tan −1 ⎢ ⎥⎦ = 33
⎣ 2 × 36
For composite material
b r +b r
Equivalent φ= 11 2 2
b1 + b2

=
(150 × 33) + (60 × 13.24) = 27.35
(150 + 60)

46
 b1 r1 + b2 r2
Equivalent r=
b1 + b2

=
(2 × 150) + (60 × 1.76) = 1.93t / m 3
150 + 60
h 2 − h22 ⎛ φ⎞
Horizontal shear force S = r 1 tan 2 ⎜ 45 − ⎟
2 ⎝ 2⎠

S = 1.93
(75 2
)
− 15 2 ⎛
tan 2 ⎜ 45 −
27.35 ⎞
⎟ = 1930.27tons
2 ⎝ 2 ⎠
S 1930.17
Average shear Sa == = 9.19t / m 2
b × 1 210 × 1
Maximum unit shear = 1.4S a = 1.4 × 9.19 = 12.87t / m 2
Maximum unit shear occurs at ( 0.4b ) from shoulder.
τ = C + σ tan φ
σ = (2 × 36) + (1 × 15) = 87t / m 2
τ = 0 + 87 tan 33
= 56.5t / m 2 > 12.85t / m 2

Mean effective unit weight at 0.4b =

(36 × 2) + (15 × 1) = 1.706t / m 3
(36 + 15)
Shear strength at point of maximum shear
τ = C + σ tan φ
= 1.706 + (36 × 15) tan 33 = 56.6t / m 2
56.5
Safety Factor against shear = = 4.396 > 1
12.85
∴ OK

28. ( a ) How would you located the phreatic line in an earth inclined discharge face?

Solution

The Phreatic Line with Inclined Discharge Face

For embankment with no drainage measure the base parabola cuts the
discharge face at point Go at a distance ( a+ Δ a ) along the discharge face from point F,
and extend beyond the limits of the embankment. The actual seepage line meets the
discharge face ( at point G ) at a distance ‘a’ below the point Go. The value of ‘a’ can be
worked from the equation ;
Δa 180 − θ
=
a + Δa 400

47
 Where a , Δa and θ are defined in the figure. The value of ( a+Δa ) can either be
measured directly on the face when the parabola has been drawn or its value determined
from the equation;
yo
( a+Δa ) =
1 − cos θ

28. ( b ). A homogenous earth dam with top R.L = 125 m, river bed level = 100 m and
high flood level = 122 m has a crest width 6 m and U/S slope (1 ; 2.5 ),
D/S slope ( 1 : 1.5 ) , draw the phreatic line and calculate the value for a and Δ a .

Solution
Top R-L = 125m
river bed level = 100 m
high flood level = 122 m
U/S water depth = 122 – 100 = 22 m
L = 22 × 2.5 = 55m
0.3L = BBo = 16.5m
d = 16.5 + 6 + (2.5 × 3) + (25 × 1.5) = 67.5m

y o = d 2 + h 2 − d = 3.5m
y
F .E = o = 1.75m
2
yo
a + Δa =
1 − cos θ
3.5
= = 20.89m
1 − cos 33.69
Δa 180 − θ
=
a + Δa 400

48
 Δa 180 − 33.69
=
20.89 400
Δa = 7.62m
a = 13.22 m
y = 2 xy o + y o2

x 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 67.5
y 3.5 9.07 12.34 14.9 17.1 19.03 20.7 22

29.( a ) How would you locate the phreatic line with rock toe?

Solution

The Phreatic Line with Rock Toe

The basic parabola may be drawn in similar way taking F as focus. As already
shown this parabola itself is the seepage line for a horizontal filter.
For a rock toe, an apporite value of θ measured clockwise from the horizontal base
Δa
should be taken and the value of computed from the equation. The parabola is
a + Δa
corrected at the egress point.
For values of θ between 30° to 180° , the distance a measured along the slope from
the toe may be determined. However, if it is less than 30°, the distance ‘a’ or the point of
emergence of the phreatic line at the D/S slope may be determined with the help of
Schaffernak’s equation.
d d2 h2
θ < 30& ⇒ a = − −
cos θ cos 2 θ sin 2 θ
(OR)

49
 a= d 2 + h 2 − d 2 − h 2 cot 2 θ
where d and h are co-ordinates of the initial point Bo.

29. (b ). A homogenous earth dam with top R.L = 125 m, river bed level = 100 m and
high flood level = 122 m has a crest width = 6 m, U/S slope ( 1 : 2.5 ),
D/S slope ( 1 : 1.5 ). Draw the phreatic line with angle of discharge face α = 120& at the
D/S slope, if a horizontal filter of 10 m length is provided.

Solution
River bed level = 100 m
H.F.L = 122 m
Top R.L = 125 m
U/S water depth = 22 m
L = 22 × 2.5 = 55m
0.3L = BBo = 16.5m
d = 16.5 + 6 + (2.5 × 3) + (25 × 1.5)
= 67.5 − 10 = 57.5m
y o = d 2 + h 2 − d = 4.07m
y
F .E = o = 2.035m
2
yo
a + Δa =
1 − cos θ

4.07
= = 2.71m
1 − cos120&
Δa 180 − θ
=
a + Δa 400
Δa 180& − 120&
=
2.71 400
Δa = 0.41m

50
 a = 2.3m
y = 2 xy o + y o2

x 0 10 20 30 40 50 57.5
y 4.07 9.9 13.39 16.15 18.5 20.58 22

30. A road bridge of seven equal span lengths crosses a 106 m wide river. The piers are
2.5 m thick, each with semicular noses and tails, and their length: breadth ratio is 4.The
stream flow data are given as follow:
_discharge Q = 500 m3/s
_ depth of flow D/S of the bridge = 2.5 m
Determine the afflux U/S of the bridge.

Solution
Q = 500m 3 / s
y = 2.5m
b = 106m
Q 500
v= = = 1.87m / s
A 106 × 2.5
V 1.87
∴ Froude Number Fr = = = 0.381
gy 9.81 × 2.5
3
⎛ 1⎞ Fr 4
σ = ⎜2 + ⎟ ×
⎝ σ ⎠ 1 + 2 Fr 2( )
3

3
⎛ 1 ⎞ 0.3814
= ⎜2 + ⎟ ×
⎝ 0.55 ⎠ (
1 + 2(0.381)
2 3
)
0.02
= 55.66 ×
2.15
σ = 55.66 × 9.30 × 10 −3 = 0.52
The value of σ provided σ = b/B = 0.839

51
 α = 1 − σ = 0.161
Δy
y
( )(
= KFr 2 K + 5Fr 2 − 0.6 α + 15α 4 )
K = 0.9, Fr = 0.381, α = 0.16
Δy
y3
( )(
= 0.9 × 0.3812 0.9 + 5(0.381) − 0.6 0.16 + 15(0.16)
2 4
)
Δy
= 0.0227
2.5
Δy = 0.05675m = 56.75mm
The afflux U/S of the bridge Δy = 56.75mm

************************ THE END *****************************

Department of Civil Engineering

Technological University (Toungoo)
Ph: 054-27173

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