For the upstream slope of an earth dam the most critical condition isa...
Critical Condition for Upstream Slope of an Earth Dam
The upstream slope of an earth dam is subjected to various conditions that can affect its stability. Among these conditions, the most critical one is sudden drawdown condition. Let us discuss this in detail.
Sudden Drawdown Condition
Sudden drawdown condition refers to the rapid drainage of water from the reservoir behind the dam. This can happen due to various reasons such as a sudden failure of an outlet gate or an earthquake. When the water level drops suddenly, the soil particles in the upstream slope of the dam get disturbed and lose their cohesion. This can cause the slope to become unstable and lead to slope failure.
Why Sudden Drawdown is Critical?
Sudden drawdown is critical for the upstream slope of an earth dam because of the following reasons:
1. Loss of Cohesion: The soil particles in the upstream slope of the dam are held together by the cohesive forces between them. When the water level drops suddenly, these forces are disturbed, and the soil loses its cohesion. This can cause the slope to become unstable and lead to slope failure.
2. Pore Water Pressure: The water in the soil pores exerts pressure on the soil particles. When the water level drops suddenly, this pressure decreases rapidly, causing the soil particles to rearrange themselves. This can cause the slope to become unstable and lead to slope failure.
3. Shear Strength: The shear strength of the soil depends on the stress conditions and the soil properties. When the water level drops suddenly, the stress conditions change rapidly, causing the shear strength of the soil to decrease. This can cause the slope to become unstable and lead to slope failure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sudden drawdown condition is the most critical condition for the upstream slope of an earth dam. It can cause the soil particles to lose their cohesion, decrease the pore water pressure, and decrease the shear strength of the soil. This can lead to slope failure and pose a significant risk to the safety of the dam. Therefore, it is essential to consider this condition while designing and constructing an earth dam.
For the upstream slope of an earth dam the most critical condition isa...
Upstream side critical condition is
1.end of construction
2.sudden draw down
D/S critical condition is
1.steady seepage when reservoir is full
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