Introduction of Gravity of Dam
The Gravity dam is defined as a structure that is designed and constructed such that the own weight of the gravity dam resists the external forces.
The Gravity dam is most durable and solid which requires very less maintenance. The Gravity dam is constructed from masonry or concrete. Gravity dams are massive structures that are constructed with the help of stone or concrete.
The construction of concrete gravity dams is preferred as compared to the other types of dams. If suitable conditions and the site is available then the gravity dams can be constructed up to the greater heights. This types of dams are generally straight in the plan.
One of the highest and popular Gravity dams in the world is Grand Dixence Dam in Switzerland. The height of this dam is 284 m.
The highest and biggest gravity dam in India is the Bhakra Nangal Dam. The height of this dam is 226m. The gravity dams are more durable as compared to other types of dams.
Forces Acting on a Gravity Dam
There are various forces that are acting on the gravity dam. All these forces are explained with their magnitude direction and the point of action. The forces of the gravity dam are expressed in the kilogram per meter run of the Dam.
1. Water Pressure on the Gravity Dam
The water pressure is the major external pressure that is acting on the Dam. This is the Overturning force acting on the gravity dam.
P1= (Wh2/2) which act from the base at h/3
Where,
w= Specific weight of the water
h= Height of water
2. Weight of the Wedge on the Downstream Slope
This is the force due to the weight of water on the downstream wedge acting at the centre of gravity in downwards.
P ( force) = (Whd2 /2)
Where,
hd = Depth of the water on the downstream side
3. Weight of Dam
Weight of the dam = Area of cross-section x unit weight of dam material acting at the centre of gravity of the dam section downwards.
The weight of the dam is an important and main stabilizing force in case of the gravity dam. For the analysis of the gravity dam, the unit width of the gravity dam is considered. The total weight of the gravity dam acts at the centre of gravity of the cross-section.
4. Upstream Silt Pressure
The silt which is deposited on the upstream side of the dam exerts pressure on the dam. The silt which is deposited on the upstream side can be analyzed for any vertical forces in case the dam is sloped.
5. Seismic Forces or Earthquake Forces
It is very important that dam should be designed in all respects. If the dam is located in the earthquake zones, can you should be designed for the seismic forces.
The earthquake waves can cause damage to the foundation and the structure of the dam and there may be chances that the dam may be collapsed. So it is necessary that the earthquake forces should be considered while designing and constructing the gravity dams.
P ( Earthquake force) = 500 h2
This force approximately acts at 0.42h from the base of the dam.
6. Uplift Force
This is the pressure due to the seepage of water through the foundation. It acts upwards on the foundation of the dam and reduces the effective weight.
7. Ice Pressure
In an extremely cold climate the top surface of the reservoir freezes into ice due to variations in temperature such as expand during the daytime and exert pressure on the dam.
This force acts along the length of the dam at the reservoir level. Magnitude of the Ice force ranges between 25 to 150 t/m2.
8. Wind Pressure
The wind force acting on all the export faces of the dam exerts pressure in the direction of the wind. The wind pressure depends on the speed of the wind.
The wind pressure acts on the export surface of the gravity dam. The section of the gravity dam is proportioned such that it will resist the external force acting on the gravity dam by its own weight.
Construction of Gravity Dam
The gravity dams are constructed on any site where the natural foundation is strong and rigid enough to bear the heavy load of the dam.
Gravity dams are constructed at the right angles to the flow of the water. During the construction of the gravity dam it is necessary to divert the flowing water of river temporarily.
The lower portion of the gravity dam should be constructed in dry weather because it will help to minimize the cost required for the diversion of the water.
The materials which are required for the construction of the gravity dams are sand, aggregate, cement, and reinforcement, etc. In the Gravity dam, the apex is at the top side and the maximum width is at the bottom side of the gravity dam.
The most suitable and preferred foundation for the construction of the gravity dam is a rock foundation. The rock foundation is the strongest foundation that will transmit the heavy weight of the gravity dam into the underneath strata of the soil.
The cross-section of the gravity dam is basically triangular in shape. In the construction of the gravity dam, low heat cement is used.
The materials which will be used in the construction of the gravity dam should be accessible nearby areas so that to reduce the transportation cost and the total cost of construction of the project.
Advantages of Gravity Dam
The various advantages of the gravity dam are as follows.
- The gravity dams are more stronger and rigid.
- the gravity dams are more stable and durable as compared to other types of dams.
- The gravity dam requires less maintenance.
- The construction of the gravity dam is suitable in the steep valleys because it is not possible to construct the earthen dams in the steep valleys.
- The Benefit-cost ratio of the Gravity dam is more.
- Gravity dams have the ability to hold a large amount of water.
- Gravity dams can be constructed upto any height but it is necessary that the foundation of the dam should be strong and rigid.
- There are less seepage problems in the case of gravity dams.
Disadvantages of Gravity Dam
There are also some disadvantages of the gravity dam which are as follows.
- The initial cost required for the construction of the Gravity dams is high.
- The time required for the construction of the gravity dam is more.
- The construction of the Gravity dam required skilled labour.
- It is necessary that the construction of the gravity dams should have a strong and sound foundation.
- The design of the gravity dam is a little bit complex.
Applications of Gravity Dam
The applications of the gravity dam are as follows
- Gravity dam is used to store a large amount of water.
- Gravity dams are used for the supply of water for various purposes.
- It is also used for the purpose of Flood control.
- Gravity dams are also used for the generation of hydropower.
Measures Should Be Taken to Control Cracks in the Gravity Dams?
There are various measures to be taken to avoid cracking in gravity dam which are as follows.
- In the construction of the gravity dam special low heat, cement should be used.
- Proper suitable spaced contraction joints should be provided in addition to the normal construction joints.
- The material which will go into the concrete should be cooled before mixing the concrete.
- When the concrete is poured, it is poured to a certain height which is known as Lift. Generally, the lift which is used for the gravity dam is 1.5 m.
FAQ on Gravity Dams
What is a gravity dam?
A gravity dam is a structure designed and constructed so that its own weight resists external forces, primarily constructed from masonry or concrete.
Why are gravity dams considered durable and low-maintenance?
Gravity dams are massive and solid structures that require minimal maintenance due to their robust construction materials and design.
What materials are used in the construction of gravity dams?
Gravity dams are typically constructed using concrete or stone.
What are the primary forces acting on a gravity dam?
The primary forces include water pressure, weight of the downstream wedge, weight of the dam, upstream silt pressure, seismic forces, uplift force, ice pressure, and wind pressure.
How does water pressure affect a gravity dam?
Water pressure acts as an overturning force on the gravity dam and is a major external force that needs to be resisted by the dam’s weight.
What is the role of the dam’s weight in its stability?
The weight of the dam is the main stabilizing force, helping to resist the external forces acting on it.
How do seismic forces impact gravity dams?
Seismic forces can cause damage to the foundation and structure of the dam, necessitating design considerations for earthquake resistance.
What are uplift forces in the context of gravity dams?
Uplift forces are caused by the seepage of water through the foundation, acting upwards and reducing the effective weight of the dam.
Why is ice pressure a concern for gravity dams?
In extremely cold climates, ice formation and expansion can exert significant pressure on the dam, impacting its structural integrity.
How does wind pressure affect gravity dams?
Wind pressure acts on the exposed faces of the dam, and its magnitude depends on the wind speed, contributing to the external forces the dam must resist.
What considerations are made during the construction of gravity dams?
Key considerations include the strength of the foundation, diversion of river flow during construction, use of low heat cement, and accessibility of construction materials.
What are the advantages of gravity dams?
Advantages include strength, stability, durability, minimal maintenance, suitability for steep valleys, high benefit-cost ratio, and ability to hold large volumes of water.
What are the disadvantages of gravity dams?
Disadvantages include high initial construction cost, lengthy construction time, need for skilled labor, requirement for a strong foundation, and complex design.
What are the primary applications of gravity dams?
Gravity dams are used for water storage, water supply, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation.
What measures are taken to control cracks in gravity dams?
Measures include using low heat cement, providing properly spaced contraction joints, cooling materials before mixing concrete, and controlling the height of concrete lifts during pouring.
