Republic of the Philippines

Mountain Province State Polytechnic College

Bontoc, Mountain Province

ANALYSIS OF GRAVITY DAM

Module 4 of 10 modules

Hydraulics
(New Curriculum)

MARCO M. GULUNGAN
Email Address: marco.gulungan@gmain.com
Contact #: 09073563107/09667222636

Engineering Department

2nd Semester, School Year 2020-2021

INTRODUCTION
This module covers the analysis of gravity dams neglecting and considering
hydrostatic uplift, overflowing dam with or without hydrostatic uplift and neglecting the
effect of water on the downstream side, and dams with water on both upstream and
downstream side. It includes the factors to be considered in the analysis such as water
pressure, uplift pressure, and the stabilizing pressure which is the weight of the dam
itself.

In this module, it is important that you have to review first the hydrostatic
principle because this is the principle mostly applied in the analysis of gravity dams.

The number of hours allotted for this module shall be for 15 hours. You are
expected to finish the module in 3 weeks.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this module, you should be able to:
1. solve algebraically the forces acting on a gravity dam with a given
condition and parameters;
2. determine the factor of safety against overturning and sliding of a dam with
a given condition and parameters; and
3. state the stability of the dam base on the calculated overturning moment,
righting moment and factor of safety.

PRETEST
Let us see how much you already knew about gravity dams. Answer each question
below. Take note of the items that you do not yet know.
1. The formula in determining the shearing stress and compressive stress is the
same.
a. True b. False
2. What is the unit weight of water in kg/m3?
a. 9.81 b. 9810 c. 1000
3. The increase of water at a certain height on the upstream face of the dam can
reduce the stability of the dam against overturning and sliding.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
4. By the principle of hydrostatic, the hydrostatic force acting on a dam is the force
exerted by a liquid on a dam with force acting at the right angles to the surface
uniformly in all directions.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
5. In the formula P = 𝛾ℎ̅𝐴, ℎ̅ is the distance from the centroid of the vertical projection
of the dam to the top of the dam.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
̅
6. In the formula P = 𝛾ℎ𝐴, A is the area of the dam.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
7. The dam is stable if its weight is greater than hydrostatic forces neglecting water
seepage at the base of the dam.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
8. The formula in determining the weight of the masonry dam is W = ϒV, what is ϒ?
a. Unit weight of water
b. Specific gravity of the dam
c. Unit weight of the dam
9. Gravity dams are analyze by considering only 1 – meter strip of the dam.
a. True b. False c. Maybe
10. What is the unit weight of water in tons per cubic meter?
a. 9.81 tons/m3 b. 1 ton/m3 c. 1000 ton/m3

1
LESSON 1: Analysis of Gravity Dam neglecting Hydrostatic Uplift

Objectives:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
1. compute the hydrostatic force acting on the side of rectangular, triangular and
trapezoidal dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift;

2. compute the righting and overturning moment acting on rectangular,

triangular and trapezoidal dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift; and

3. compute the factor of safety against sliding and overturning and the resultant
force at the base of a rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal dam neglecting
hydrostatic uplift.

LET’S ENGAGE
If someone ask you what is dam, I know that the first thing that comes up into
your mind is electricity because that is what we are familiar with. And yes, that is one
of the main purposes why dams are being built.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

What is dam?
In engineering, dams are built along rivers or streams for the purpose of
impounding water to compensate for fluctuation in river flow or in the demand for water
and electricity; and to enable water to be delivered into a canal for irrigation purposes.
Dams that are subjected to water pressure on the upstream side are being
analyzed by considering only one-meter strip of the dam.
Gravity dam is a structure which is designed in such a way that its own weight
resists the external forces. This type of a structure is most durable and solid requires
very less maintenance.
The following are some of the different forces acting on a dam
 Water pressure
Water pressure is the most major external force acting on such a
dam. The horizontal water pressure, exerted by the weight of the water
stored on the upstream side of the dam can be estimated from the rule of
hydrostatic pressure distribution.
 Uplift pressure

Water seeping through the pores, cracks, and fissures of the

foundation material, and water seeping through dam body and then to the
bottom through the joint between the body of the dam. It is the second
major external force and must be accounted for in all calculations. Such
an uplift force virtually reduces the downward weight of the body of the
dam and hence, acts against the dam stability.

 Pressure due to earthquake forces

If the dam is to be designed, it is to be located in a region which is
susceptible to earthquakes, allowance must be made for stresses
generated by the earthquake. An earthquake produces waves which are
capable of shaking the earth upon which dam is resting, in every possible
direction.
Horizontal acceleration acting towards the reservoir causes a
momentary increase in the water pressure, as the foundation and the dam
accelerates towards the reservoir and the water resists the movement
owing to its inertia. The extra pressure exerted by this process is known
as hydrodynamic pressure.

2
 The effect of upward or downward acceleration. When it is acting in
the upward direction, then the foundation of the dam will be lifted upward
and becomes close to the body of the dam, and thus the effective weight of
the dam will increase and hence, the stresses developed will increase.
The amount of uplift is a matter of research and the present
recommendations the uplift pressure intensities at the heel and at the toe
should be taken equal to their respective hydrostatic pressure and joined
by a straight line in between. The uplift pressure can be controlled by
constructing cut-off walls under the stream face, by constructing drainage
channels between the dam and its foundations and by pressure grouting
the foundation.
The effect of earthquake is therefore, equivalent impairing an
acceleration to the foundation of the dam in the direction in which the
wave is travelling at the moment, earthquake waves may move in any
direction and for design purpose, it has to be resolved in vertical and
horizontal components.
 The stabilizing force is the weight of the dam itself
The stabilizing force to resists all the forces that makes the dam to
overturn and to slide is its own weight, so weight of the dam should be
greater than the water pressure beside it. In order to determine if the dam
is stable, righting moment should be greater than its overturning moment.

Analyzing the figure below with the different forces, we can state if the dam is
stable or not. If the righting moment is greater than the overturning moment, then we
can say that the dam is stable. Also having a higher factor of safety gives higher chance
of the structure not to slide and overturn. Applying summation of forces vertical,
summation of moments, and the principles of hydrostatics, we can derive equations to
use in the analysis. The following are:

1m
W1
X1
W2
X2
h

P RM
h/3

OM
Vertical
X Projection

Ry
By the principle of hydrostatic forces
 P = ϒℎ̅A simplifying;
ℎ
where: ℎ̅ = 2
; A = h(1)
𝜸𝒉²
ℎ
P = ϒ(2)(h) P= 𝟐

Taking the moments acting at the toe

𝒉
R.M. = 𝑾𝟏 𝑿𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 𝑿𝟐 O.M. = P( )
𝟑

3
Summation of moment at the toe
𝑹𝒙 = R.M. – O.M.

Factor of Safety against Overturning Factor of safety against sliding

𝑹.𝑴. μ𝑹
F.S. = F.S. = 𝑷
𝑶.𝑴.

Where:
P = Hydrostatic pressure acting on the dam

ℎ̅ = Distance from the centroid of the submerged object to the water surface
A = Area of the vertical projection of the dam
R.M. = Righting Moment
O.M. = Overturning Moment
R or 𝑅𝑦 = Resultant force acting on the Dam

W = weight of dam
h = height of water on the upstream side of the dam
F.S.= Factor of Safety
μ = Coefficient of Friction between the base of the dam and the foundation

In the analysis of gravity dams, pressure at the base should be considered in

order to determine the occurrence of the resultant force. For a good design, resultant
force should occur within the middle third of the base. The pressure distribution are as
follows:
Case I: Resultant at the middle of the base (x = B/2)

Considering 1-meter strip

Ry = P(B)(1)
Toe
𝑅
Pmax P= 𝐵
(average)

B/2 B/2

Ry

4
 𝐵
Case II: Resultant at the middle thirds nearer the toe (x = )
3
Considering 1-meter strip
B/3 B/3 B/3 X = B/3
𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 + 0
R= (B)(1)
2
𝑃𝐵
Heel Toe R=
2

- (twice the average pressure)

Pmax

X
Ry

𝐵
Case III: Resultant outside the middle third(x < )
3

B/3 B/3 B/3

Considering 1-meter strip

𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 (3𝑥)
R= 2
Heel Toe
2𝑅
P= 3𝑥
Pmax

X
3x

Ry

𝐵 𝐵
Case IV: Resultant within the middle thirds ( > x > )
2 3

B/3 B/3 B/3

Considering 1-meter strip

𝑅 6𝑒
𝑃𝑚𝑖𝑛 = (1 - )
Toe 𝐵 𝐵
Pmin 𝑅 6𝑒
𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥 = (1 + )
𝐵 𝐵
Pmax 𝐵
e= - 𝑥̅
2
e X
B/2
Ry

5
Example:
𝟏
𝑬𝑿
) A masonry dam with vertical upstream face is 6m high, 0.60 m at the top and 3m
wide of the bottom. Weight of concrete is 23.5 KN/m3. Neglecting hydrostatic uplift,

a. Calculate the depth of water on the vertical upstream face of the dam if
resultant force is located 1 m from the toe.

b. Calculate the factor of safety against sliding if the coefficient of friction

on the base is equal to 0.80.
c. State if the dam is stable.
Solution:

0.60 m

W1 X1 = 2.7 m

W2
6.0 m

X2 = 1.6 m
h

P RM
h/3

3.0 m
OM

X=1m

Ry
The depth of water on the vertical upstream face of the dam if resultant
force is located 1 m from the toe.
Determine the hydrostatic force in terms of h

𝛾ℎ² (9.81)(ℎ)²
P= 2
; P= 2

P = 4.905 h2
Calculate for the overturning moment and the righting moment

W = ϒV
W1 = 0.60(6) (1) (23.50) = 84.60 KN
W2 = 0.50 (6) (2.4) (1) (23.50) = 169.20 KN
R = W1 + W2 = 84.60 + 169.20 = 253.80 KN
RM = W1 (2.70) + W2 (1.6)
RM = 86.40 (2.70) + 169.20 (1.6)
RM = 499.14 KN-m

6
 ℎ ℎ
OM = P (3) = 4.905 h2 (3)

OM = 1.635 h3
Summing up moment at the toe
R(𝑥̅ ) = RM – OM
253.80 (1) = 499.14 – 1.635 h3

h = 5.31 m

Factor of safety against sliding if the coefficient of friction on the base is

equal to 0.80.
𝜇𝑅
FS =
𝑃

R = 253.80 KN ; P = 4.905 (5.31)2 = 138.30 KN

(0.80)(253.80)
FS =
138.30

FS = 1.47

Stability of the dam

In order for the dam to be stable, the righting moment should be greater than the
overturning moment.
RM = 499.14 KN-m
OM = 1.635 h3 ------------------------ substitute the calculated value of h
OM = 1.635 (5.31)3

OM = 244.79 KN

Righting moment is greater than overturning moment, therefore the dam is stable.

𝟐
𝑬𝑿
) A dam having a triangular section has a vertical side 24 m high and 12 m wide at
the base. Unit weight of concrete 23.50 KN/m3.

 Determine the height of water that could rise on the vertical side of the
dam so that the maximum intensity of pressure at the toe is twice the
average pressure at the base. Neglect hydrostatic uplift.
 What is the shearing stress at the bottom of the base?
 Compute the maximum compressive stress at the base.

7
Solution:

8m
w.s.

24 m

h P RM

h/3
Toe

yh B = 12 m OM
X=B/3=4 m

Ry

The height of water that could rise on the vertical side of the dam so that the
maximum intensity of pressure at the toe is twice the average pressure at the
base.

By principle of hydrostatic forces

ℎ
P = ϒw ℎ̅ A ; ℎ̅ = 2
; A = h (1)
ℎ
P = 9.81 (2) (h)(1) = 4.905 h2

W = (0.5) (12) (24) (23.50) = 3384 KN

Summation of forces vertical
R = W = 3384 KN
Taking moments at the toe
RM = W (x) = 3384 (8) = 27 072 KN-m
ℎ ℎ
OM = P (3) = 4.905 h2 ( 3) = 1.635 h3

Summing up moments at the toe

R () = RM – OM ; 𝑥̅ = B/3 = 12/3 = 4 m
3384 (4) = 27 072 – 1.635 h3 ---------------------------------- simplify

h = 20.23 m
Shearing stress at the bottom of the base
Shearing stress = P/A
P = 4.905 h2 = 4.905 (20.23)
P = 2007.39 KN
Shearing stress = 2007.39 / 12(1)

Shearing stress = 167.28 KPa

m

8
 The maximum compressive stress at the base
* Since the location of the resultant is at the middle third of the base, then
𝑓𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐵
R = 2
𝑓𝑚𝑎𝑥 (12)
3384 = 2

𝒇𝒎𝒂𝒙 = 564 KPa m

IT’S YOUR TURN

For more examples, read the book “Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics (3rd Edition) by
Besavilla” or you may visit the website https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-
dam

Exercises 1:
Solve algebraically the following problems. Use long bond paper. Copy the problem
before answering. Provide necessary drawings/illustrations and show your complete
solutions. (15 pts. Each)

1. A dam is triangular in cross-section with the upstream face vertical, water is

flush at the top. The dam is 8m high and 6m wide at the base and weighs 2.4
tons per cubic meter. The coefficient of friction between the base and the
foundation is 0.8. Neglecting hydrostatic uplift, determine the following:

 Determine the factor of safety against overturning.

 Determine the factor of safety against sliding.

2. A concrete dam of trapezoidal cross-section, with one face vertical has a

thickness of 0.60m at the top and 4.2m at the bottom. It is 7m high and has a
horizontal base. The vertical face is subjected to a water pressure, the water
standing 6m above the base. The weight of concrete is 24KN/m3 per meter length
of dam, evaluate:
 The total hydrostatic force on the dam in KN.
 The resisting moment of the dam to overturning in KN.m.
 Factor of safety against overturning.

9
LESSON 2: Analysis of Gravity Dam Considering Hydrostatic uplift
Objectives:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
1. compute the hydrostatic force acting on the side of rectangular,
triangular and trapezoidal dam considering hydrostatic uplift;

2. compute the righting and overturning moment on a rectangular,

triangular and trapezoidal dam considering hydrostatic uplift; and

3. compute the factor of safety against sliding and overturning and the
resultant force at the base of a rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal
dam considering hydrostatic uplift.

LET’S ENGAGE
Why do we consider hydrostatic uplift in the analysis of gravity dam?
The analysis of gravity dam considering and neglecting hydrostatic uplift is
almost the same but for this specific lesson, the effect of water seepage under the dam
is considered. Because of the presence of the water on the upstream face which can be
raised into a certain height, there is a tendency for the water to seep under the dam and
scape at the lower level on the downstream side. Since this seepage is under pressure,
it exerts a hydrostatic uplift on the dam which reduces the stability of the dam against
sliding and overturning.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Let us consider the figure below which shows the integration of hydrostatic uplift
in the analysis of gravity dam.

W1 X1
w.s.

W2
X2
h

P R M
h/3

Toe

O M
yh
X

R y
2
3 B
U
By the principle of hydrostatic forces

 P = ϒℎ̅A simplifying
ℎ
where: ℎ̅ = 2
; A = h(1)

10
 ℎ
P = ϒ(2)(h) 𝜸𝒉²
P=
𝟐

Taking the moments acting at the toe

ϒ𝒉𝑩
R.M. = 𝑾𝟏 𝑿𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 𝑿𝟐 𝒉
O.M. = P(𝟑) + U (𝟑 𝑩)
𝟐
U= 𝟐

Summation of moment at the toe

Rx= R.M. – O.M.

Factor of Safety against Overturning Factor of safety against sliding

𝑹.𝑴. μ𝑹
F.S. = F.S. = 𝑷
𝑶.𝑴.

Where:
R = 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 − 𝑼
P = Hydrostatic pressure acting on the dam

ℎ̅ = Distance from the centroid of the submerged object to the water surface
A = Area of the vertical projection of the dam
R.M. = Righting Moment
O.M. = Overturning Moment
R or 𝑅𝑦 = Resultant force acting on the Dam

W = weight of dam
h = height of water on the upstream side of the dam
F.S.= Factor of Safety
μ = Coefficient of Friction between the base of the dam and the foundation
Example:
𝟏
𝑬𝑿
) A trapezoidal dam with vertical upstream face is 4.6 m high, 0.6 m wide at the top
and 3 m wide at the base. Hydrostatic uplift varies from full hydrostatic pressure at the
heel to zero at the toe. Find the depth of water if the pressure at the toe is twice the
average pressure at the base. Unit weight of masonry is 2400 kg/m3.

Solution:

3 m

0.60 m

W1 X1 = 2.7 m

W2
4.6 m

X2 = 1.6 m
h

P R M
h/3

O M
X = 1 m
2
3B

U R

11
By principle of hydrostatic

𝛾ℎ² (1000)(ℎ)²
P= 2
; P= 2

P = 500 h2

Taking moment at the toe

RM = W1 x1 + W2 x2
W1 = 2400 [0.6 (4.6)(1)] = 6624 kg

W2 = 2400 [1⁄2 (2.4)(4.6)(1)] = 13 248 kg

RM = 6624 (2.7) + 13 248 (1.6)

RM = 39081.6 kg-m
ℎ
OM = P (3) + U (2/3 B)

𝛾𝑤 ℎ 𝐵 1000 (ℎ)(3)
U= 2
= 2
= 1500 h

2/3 B = 2/3 (3) = 2 m

ℎ
OM = 500 h2 (3) + 1500 h (2)

OM = 166.67 h3 + 3000 h
Summing up moments at the toe
R (x) = RM – OM ; x = B/3 = 3/3 =1m
R = W1 + W2 – U
R = 6624 + 13 248 – 1500 h
R = 19872 – 1500 h
(19872 – 1500 h) (1) = 39 081 – (166.67 h3 + 3000 h) ------------------------ simplify
19872 – 1500 h = 39 081 – 166.67 h3 - 3000 h
166.67 h3 + 1500 h – 115.25 = 0

h= 4.25 m

12
IT’S YOUR TURN
For more examples, read the book “Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics (3rd Edition) by
Besavilla” or you may visit the website https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-
dam

Exercises 2:
Solve algebraically the following problems. Use long bond paper. Copy the problem
before answering. Provide necessary drawings/illustrations and show your complete
solution. (15 points each)

1. A dam is triangular in cross section with the upstream face vertical. Water is
flush with the top. The dam is 9 m high and 6 meters wide at the base, and
weighs 2.4 tons per cubic meter. The coefficient of friction between the base
and the foundation is 0.90. Hydrostatic uplift varies from full at the heel to
zero at the toe.
 Determine the factor of safety against overturning.
 Determine the factor of safety against sliding.
 Determine the maximum pressure at the base of the dam

2. A concrete dam of trapezoidal cross section, with one face vertical has
thickness of 0.60 m at the top and 4.2 m at the bottom. It is 7 m high and has
a horizontal base. The vertical face is subjected to a water pressure, the water
standing 6m above the base. The weight of concrete is 2.5 tons per cubic meter
length of the dam. Considering hydrostatic uplift, evaluate:
 The hydrostatic force in the dam in tons.
 The factor of safety against overturning.
 The maximum pressure at the base of the dam.

13
LESSON 3: Overflowing Dam without hydrostatic uplift and neglecting the
effect of water on the downstream side
Objectives:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

1. compute the hydrostatic force acting on an overflowing rectangular,

triangular and trapezoidal dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift and the
effect of water on the downstream side;

2. compute righting and overturning moment on an overflowing

rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift
and the effect of water on the downstream side; and

3. compute the factor of safety against sliding and overturning and the
resultant force at the base of an overflowing rectangular, triangular and
trapezoidal dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift and the effect of water on
the downstream side.

LET’S ENGAGE
How overflow waters affect the stability of dam?
Dams are actually designed to impound water for a specific purpose but
sometimes we cannot predict the amount of water that will be accumulated most
especially during rainy seasons. So there is what we called overflow dam which are
designed for raising of the water level of rivers, it permits the overflow of water during
the passage of excess discharges over the entire length of the dam.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

The sudden increase of water on the upstream face of the dam to the extent that
it exceeds the height of the dam, increases the water pressure that may cause the dam
to fail. In the contrary, the water that will pass through above the dam may contribute
to the stability of the structure. So the figure below shows how to integrate the effect of
overflow water in the analysis of overflowing dam neglecting hydrostatic uplift and the
effect of water on the downstream side.

W3 X1 = X3
1m
y

W1

W2
h

X2
D

e
D/2

D/2 - e

P RM

OM
Vertical
X Projection

R
From the figure, considering 1 - meter strip of the dam, equations derived are the
following:
By the principle of hydrostatic

P = ̅A
ϒ𝒉 h = y + 𝐷⁄2

14
 𝑰𝒈
e=
𝑺𝒔
𝐵(𝐷 3 )
𝐼𝑔 = 12

𝑆𝑠 = A𝑦̅
Summation of forces vertical

R = 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 + 𝑾𝟑

Taking the moments acting at the toe

R.M. = 𝑾𝟏 𝑿𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 𝑿𝟐 + 𝑾𝟑 𝑿𝟑 𝑫
O.M. = P ( 𝟐 - e)

Summation of moment at the toe

Rx= R.M. – O.M.

Factor of Safety against Overturning Factor of safety against sliding

𝑹.𝑴. μ𝑹
F.S. = F.S. = 𝑷
𝑶.𝑴.

where:
P = Hydrostatic pressure acting on the dam
ℎ̅ = Distance from the centroid of the submerged object to the water surface
A = Area of the vertical projection of the dam
R.M. = Righting Moment
O.M. = Overturning Moment
R or 𝑅𝑦 = Resultant force acting on the Dam
W = weight of dam
h = height of water on the upstream side of the dam
F.S.= Factor of Safety
μ = Coefficient of Friction between the base of the dam and the foundation
D = height of the dam
𝑦̅ = distance from center of gravity of the plane surface to the water surface
measured along the plane.
𝑆𝑠 = statistical moment with respect to the water surface
𝐼𝑔 = moment of inertia with respect to center of gravity

Example:
𝟏
𝑬𝑿
) A trapezoidal dam having a top width of 0.60 and a bottom width of 1.20 m is 1.80
m high. The depth of water on the vertical side of the dam is 2.40 m. Unit weight of
concrete is 23.5 KN/m3. Neglecting hydrostatic uplift.

 Determine the total horizontal hydrostatic force acting on the dam.

 Find the factor of safety against overturning.
 Find the factor of safety against sliding if coefficient of friction between the dam
and the soil is 0.80.

15
Solution:
W3 X1=X3=0.90 m
w.s.

0.6
0.6 m
W1

2.4 m
W2

1.8 m
X2=0.4 m

e
0.9 m

D/2 - e
P RM

OM

1.2 m x

R
Total horizontal hydrostatic force acting on the dam.
Consider I meter strip of the dam

P = ϒℎ̅A ; ℎ̅ = 0.60 + 0.90 = 1.50 m

P = 9.81 (1.50) (1.8) (1)
P= 26.487 KN

Factor of safety against overturning

FS0 = RM/OM

RM = W1(0.90) + W3(0.90) + W2(0.40)

W1 = 0.60 (1.8) (1) (23.5) = 25.38 KN

W2 = 0.5 (0.6) (1.8) (1) (23.5) = 12.69 KN

W3 = 0.6 (0.6) (1) (9.81) = 3.53 KN

RM = 25.38 (0.90) + 3.53 (0.90) + 12.69 (0.4)

RM = 31.095 KN-m
OM = P (D/2 – e)
𝐼𝑔 𝑏ℎ 3
e= ; Ig = ; Ss = A 𝑦̅ ; 𝑦̅ = ℎ̅ = 1.50 m
𝑆𝑠 12

(1)(1.8)3⁄12
e= 1(1.8)(1.5)
= 0.18 m

OM = 26.487 (0.9 – 0.18)

OM = 19.07 KN - m
FS0 = (31.095)/ (19.07)

FS0 = 2.30

16
Factor of safety against sliding if coefficient of friction between the dam and the
soil is 0.80
𝜇𝑅
FSs = 𝑃
; R = W1 + W2 + W3

R = 25.38 + 12.69 + 3.53 = 41.60 KN

0.80 (41.60)
FSs =
26.487

FSs = 1.26

IT’S YOUR TURN

For more examples, read the book “Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics (3rd Edition) by
Besavilla” or you may visit the website https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-
dam

Exercises 3:
Solve algebraically the following problems. Use long bond paper. Copy the problem
before answering. Provide necessary drawings/illustrations and show your complete
solutions. (15 points each)

1. A trapezoidal dam having a top width of 0.60m and a bottom width of 1.2m is
1.8m high. The depth of water on the vertical side of the dam is 2.4m. Unit
weight of concrete is 23.50 KN/m3. Neglect the effect of water on the inclined
sides.
 Determine the righting moment that will stabilize the dam from
overturning.
 Determine the location of the resultant force from the toe of the
dam.
 Determine the maximum pressure at the bottom of the dam.
 Determine the minimum pressure at the bottom of the dam.

2. A rectangular dam having a width of 14.8 m has a height of 23.2 m. The depth
of water on one side of the dam is 24 m. If the coefficient of friction between the
dam and the foundation is 0.85. compute the following:
 Hydrostatic force acting on the wall.
 Factor of safety for sliding if the density of concrete is 2310kg/m3
 Factor of safety against overturning

17
LESSON 4: Overflowing Dam with hydrostatic uplift and neglecting the
effect of water on the downstream side
Objectives:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

1. compute the hydrostatic force acting on an overflowing rectangular,

triangular and trapezoidal dam considering hydrostatic uplift and
neglecting the effect of water on the downstream side;

2. compute the righting and overturning moment on an overflowing

rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal dam considering hydrostatic
uplift and neglecting the effect of water on the downstream side; and

3. compute the factor of safety against sliding and overturning and the
resultant force at the base of an overflowing rectangular, triangular and
trapezoidal dam considering hydrostatic uplift and neglecting the effect
of water on the downstream side.

LET’S ENGAGE
The analysis of overflowing dam with or without hydrostatic uplift and neglecting
the effect of water on the downstream side is the same only that hydrostatic uplift is
being considered. As the water rises on the upstream side of the dam considering
hydrostatic forces, the dam becomes less stable.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Let us consider the figure below which shows how hydrostatic uplift are being
considered in the analysis. The following are the equation to be considered:

W3 X1 = X3
y

W1

W2
h

X2
D

e
D/2

D/2 - e

P RM

OM
X
2
3 B

U R

By the principle of hydrostatic forces

P = ̅A
ϒ𝒉

h = y + 𝐷⁄2
𝐵(𝐷 3 )
e=
𝑰𝒈
𝐼𝑔 = 𝑆𝑠 = A𝑦̅
𝑺𝒔 12

18
Summation of forces vertical

R = 𝑾𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 + 𝑾𝟑 - U U=
ϒ𝒉𝑩
𝟐

Taking the moments acting at the toe

𝑫
R.M. = 𝑾𝟏 𝑿𝟏 + 𝑾𝟐 𝑿𝟐 + 𝑾𝟑 𝑿𝟑 O.M. = P ( - e) + U (2/3 B)
𝟐

Summation of moment at the toe

Rx= R.M. – O.M.

Factor of Safety against Overturning Factor of safety against sliding

𝑹.𝑴. μ𝑹
F.S. = F.S. = 𝑷
𝑶.𝑴.

where:
P = Hydrostatic pressure acting on the dam
ℎ̅ = Distance from the centroid of the submerged object to the water surface
A = Area of the vertical projection of the dam
R.M. = Righting Moment
O.M. = Overturning Moment
R or 𝑅𝑦 = Resultant force acting on the Dam
W = weight of dam
h = height of water on the upstream side of the dam
F.S.= Factor of Safety
μ = Coefficient of Friction between the base of the dam and the foundation
D = height of the dam
𝑦̅ = distance from center of gravity of the plane surface to the water surface
measured along the plane.
𝑆𝑠 = statistical moment with respect to the water surface
𝐼𝑔 = moment of inertia with respect to center of gravity
𝑈 = hydrostatic uplift
𝐵 = bottom width of the dam

Example:
𝟏
) A trapezoidal dam having a top width of 0.60 and a bottom width of 1.20 m is 1.80
𝑬𝑿
m high. The depth of water on the vertical side of the dam is 2.40 m. Unit weight of
concrete is 23.5 KN/m3. Considering hydrostatic uplift.

 Determine the total horizontal hydrostatic force acting on the dam.

 Find the factor of safety against overturning.
 Find the factor of safety against sliding if coefficient of friction between the dam
and the soil is 0.80.

19
Solution:

W3 X1=X3=0.90 m
w.s.

0.6
0.6 m
W1

2.4 m W2

1.8 m
X2=0.4 m

e
0.9 m

D/2 - e
P RM

OM
x
1.2 m
U R
Total horizontal hydrostatic force acting on the dam.
Consider I meter strip of the dam

P = ϒℎ̅A ; ℎ̅ = 0.60 + 0.90 = 1.50 m

P = 9.81 (1.50) (1.8) (1)

P= 26.487 KN

Factor of safety against overturning

FS0 = RM/OM
Taking moment at the toe

RM = W1(0.90) + W3(0.90) + W2(0.40)

W1 = 0.60 (1.8) (1) (23.5) = 25.38 KN

W2 = 0.5 (0.6) (1.8) (1) (23.5) = 12.69 KN

W3 = 0.6 (0.6) (1) (9.81) = 3.53 KN

RM = 25.38 (0.90) + 3.53 (0.90) + 12.69 (0.4)

RM = 31.095 KN-m
OM = P (D/2 – e) + U (2/3 B)
𝐼𝑔 𝑏ℎ 3
e= 𝑆𝑠
; Ig = 12
; Ss = A 𝑦̅ ; 𝑦̅ = ℎ̅ = 1.50 m

(1)(1.8)3⁄12
e= 1(1.8)(1.5)
= 0.18 m

𝛾ℎ𝐵 9.81 (2.4)(1.20)

U= 2
= 2
= 14.13 KN
2 (1.2)
OM = 26.487 (0.9 – 0.18) + 14.13 ( 3
)

OM = 30.37 KN – m

20
 FS0 = (31.095)/ (30.37)

FS0 = 1.02

Factor of safety against sliding if coefficient of friction between the dam and the
soil is 0.80
𝜇𝑅
FSs = 𝑃
; R = W1 + W2 + W3 - U

R = 25.38 + 12.69 + 3.53 – 14.13 = 27.47 KN

0.80 (27.47)
FSs = 26.487

FSs = 0.83

IT’S YOUR TURN

For more examples, read the book “Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics (3rd Edition) by
Besavilla” or you may visit the website https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-
dam

Exercises 4:
Solve algebraically the following problems. Use long bond paper. Copy the problem
before answering. Provide necessary drawing/illustrations and show your complete
solutions. (15 points each)

1. A trapezoidal dam having a top width of 0.60m and a bottom width of 1.2m is
1.8m high. The depth of water on the vertical side of the dam is 2.4m. Unit
weight of concrete is 23.50 KN/m3. Consider hydrostatic uplift and neglect the
effect of water on the inclined sides.
 Determine the righting moment that will stabilize the dam from
overturning.
 Determine the location of the resultant force from the toe of the
dam.
 Determine the maximum pressure at the bottom of the dam.
 Determine the minimum pressure at the bottom of the dam.

2. A rectangular dam having a width of 14.8 m has a height of 23.2 m. The depth
of water on one side of the dam is 24 m. If the coefficient of friction between the
dam and the foundation is 0.85, compute the following considering hydrostatic
uplift.
 Hydrostatic force acting on the wall.
 Factor of safety for sliding if the density of concrete is 2310kg/m3
 Factor of safety against overturning

21
LESSON 5: Dams with water on both upstream side and downstream side
Objectives:
At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:

1. compute the hydrostatic force acting on the side of an overflowing

rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal dam with water on both upstream
and downstream side;

2. compute the righting and overturning moment on an overflowing

rectangular, triangular and trapezoidal dam with water on both upstream
and downstream side; and

3. compute the factor of safety against sliding and overturning and the
resultant force at the base of an overflowing rectangular, triangular and
trapezoidal dam with water on both upstream and downstream side.

LET’S ENGAGE
Water pressure is the major external force acting on the dam so if we are to
consider the water on the both upstream and downstream of the dam, what do you
think is its contribution or its impact to the stability of the dam?

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT

Considering water on the both upstream and downstream of the dam, the water
pressure on the downstream side should be considered because it will contribute in the
stability of the structure. In the figure below, it shows how to consider forces induced
by water at the downstream face of the dam. So observing the figure below, the face of
the dam is inclined stating that there are two forces acting on it, we have the vertical
component which is the weight of the water and the horizontal component which is the
hydrostatic force.

W1 X1
w.s.

W2
X2
h1 W3
X3
w.s.

P1
h/3 P2 h2
yh2
yh1
y(h1 - h2) X
R B/2
U2 2
3B

U1
By the principle of hydrostatic

𝑃1 =
𝛾ℎ1 ²
𝑃2 =
𝛾ℎ2 ²
𝑈1 =
𝛾(ℎ1 −ℎ2 )𝐵 𝑈2 = ϒℎ2 B
2 2 2

Summation of forces vertical

R = 𝑊1 + 𝑊2 + 𝑊3 - 𝑈1 - 𝑈2

22
Taking moment at the toe

ℎ ℎ 2 𝐵
R.M. =𝑊1 𝑋1 + 𝑊2 𝑋2 + 𝑊3 𝑋3 + 𝑃2 ( 32 ) O.M. = 𝑃1 ( 31) + 𝑈1 (3 𝐵) + 𝑈2( 2 )

Summation of moment at the toe

𝑅𝑥 = R.M. – O.M.

Factor of safety against sliding

𝜇𝑅
𝐹. 𝑆.𝑆𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 𝑃1 − 𝑃2

Example:
𝟏
) Determine the resultant of the three forces acting on the dam shown in the figure
𝑬𝑿
and locate its intersection with the base AB. Neglect hydrostatic uplift. For good design,
the intersection should occur within the middle third of the base. Does it?

7 ft

w.s.

W = 24 000 lb

w.s.

P = 10 000 lb F = 6 000 lb
s
ree

4ft
eg

6 ft
d
60

A B
18 ft
Solution:
Summation of forces vertical
Ry = W + Fcos600
Ry = 24, 000 + 6000 cos600
Ry = 27 000 lb
Summation of forces horizontal
Rx = P + Fsin600
Rx = 10 000 - 6 000 sin600
Rx = 4803.85 lb
Resultant, R

R = √𝑅𝑥 ² + 𝑅𝑦 ²

R = √(4803.85)2 + (27 000)²

23
 R = 27, 424.02 lb
Location of resultant form x-axis
𝑅𝑦 27 000
θ= = = 79.910
𝑅𝑥 4803.85

Location of Resultant, R, from the toe

Taking moment at the toe
R(𝑥̅ ) = RM – OM
RM = 24 000 (18 – 7) + 6000 (4)
RM = 288 000 lb-ft
OM = 10 000 (6) = 60 000 lb-ft

27 424.02 (𝑥̅ ) = 288 000 – 60 000

𝑥̅ = 8.31 ft. (within the middle third)

Thus, R = 27, 424.02 lb downward to the right at θ = 79.910 and passes through the base
at 8.31 ft to the left which is within the middle third.

IT’S YOUR TURN

For more examples, read the book “Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulics (3rd Edition) by
Besavilla” or you may visit the website https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-
dam

Exercises 5:
Determine the overturning moment and the factor of safety against overturning of the
dam shown in the figure. Neglect and consider hydrostatic uplift. (30 points)

7 ft

w.s.

W = 24 000 lb

w.s.

P = 10 000 lb F = 6 000 lb
es

4ft
gre

6 ft
de
60

A B
18 ft

24
POST ASSESSMENT
To test what you have learned from this module, solve algebraically the following
problems. Write your answer in a separate sheet of long bond paper. (15 points each)

1. A trapezoidal concrete is 20 m high. The upstream face is vertical and the water
is flushed with the top which is 3m wide. The coefficient of friction between the
base of the dam and the foundation is 0.60. If it is required to have a factor of
safety of 3 for overturning and knowing that specific gravity of concrete is 2.40.
Determine the following:
 required width of the base of the dam.
 factor of safety against sliding.
2. A dam is triangular in cross section with the upstream vertical. Water is flush at
the top. The dam is 8 m high and 6 m wide at the base, and weighs 2.4 tons per
cubic meter. The coefficient of friction between the base and the foundation is
0.80.
 Determine the maximum and minimum unit pressure in tons per square
meter on the foundation considering and neglecting hydrostatic uplift.
 Determine the factor of safety against overturning and against sliding.
3. A dam rectangular in cross section with upstream face vertical. Water is 23.2 m
deep on the upstream side. The dam is 22.4 high and 14.8 m wide at the base
and weighs 2310 kg/m3. The coefficient of friction between the base and the
foundation is 0.80. Neglecting hydrostatic uplift,
 compute the hydrostatic force acting on the dam
 compute the factor of safety against overturning and against sliding.
 is the dam stable?
4. A trapezoidal dam having a top width of 0.60m and a bottom width of 1.2m is
1.8m high. The depth of water on the vertical side of the dam is 2.4m. Unit
weight of concrete is 23.50 KN/m3. Neglect the effect of water on the inclined
sides.
 Determine the maximum pressure at the bottom of the dam.
 Determine the minimum pressure at the bottom of the dam.

5. The forces acting on a 1-m length of a dam are shown in the figure. The upward
ground reaction varies uniformly from an intensity of 𝑷𝟏 KN/m at A to 𝑷𝟐 KN/m
at B. Determine 𝑷𝟏 and 𝑷𝟐 and also the horizontal resistance to sliding. Neglect
and consider Hydrostatic Uplift.

7m

w.s.

W = 2400 KN

w.s.

P = 1000 KN F = 600 KN
es

4m
gre

6m
de
60

A B
18 m

25
REFERENCES

Besavilla, V.I. (1996). Fluid mechanics and hydraulics (3rd Edition). Cebu City: VIB
Publisher

Besavilla, V.I. (1996). Fluid mechanics and hydraulics (2nd Edition). Cebu City: VIB
Publisher

Padilla, P.B. (2012). Civil engineering review manual series 1 lecture notes. Cebu City:
Perfecto Padilla Publishing

Gillesania, DIT. (2009). Fundamentals of geotechnical engineering. Cebu City: Diego

Inocencio Tapang Gillesania Publishing

Potter, M.C., Wiggert, D.C., Ramadan, B.H. (2015). Mechanics of fluids (5th ed.).
Taguig City, Philippines: ESP Printers, Inc.

https://www.slideshare.net/mobile/gauravhtandon1/gravity-dam

https://mathalino.com/tag/reviewer/gravity-dam

26