Dam Engineering CIE 522

Eng. Chanda Chisha

MSc. Water & Env. Mgt. PgD. Env.Mgt, BEng
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
ICE Breaker – Provoking The Mind Of A Dam
Mulungushi River Daily Hydrograph
Engineer
140

120
1. This Peak or Peaking Period is not
Permanent
2. The flow is heading downstream &
never upstream.
Daily Mean Discharge (m3/s)

100

80

60 1. This period of recession is

likely to be longer than
the peaking period

40
Assuming this is the level of your demand, you
want to keep the River flow at this level

20

0
Jan 2010 Feb 2010 Mar 2010 Apr 2010 May 2010 Jun 2010 Jul 2010 Aug 2010 Sep 2010 Oct 2010 Nov 2010 Dec 2010

What Comes to Mind at the sight of a Hydrograph Optimization through Impoundment, by way of
constructing a Dam with a Regulated Release
and area shown?
Mechanism.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General What is a Reservoir?
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
- It is an area developed by a water body
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics due to construction of dam.
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
What is a Dam?
1.7 Loads on dams
- This is an impoundment or a barrier
constructed across a river or a water
course in order to impound water or raise
its level.
Itezhi-Tezhi Reservoir

There is a general tendency by Professionals to

confuse the two terms – “Dam & Reservoir”.

Reservoirs are setup for various purposes & by

so, they are defined.

Kariba Dam &

Lake/Reservoir – Capacity
(180 km3)

Renaissance Reservoir - Ethiopia

 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Balancing Reservoirs: A balancing reservoir is
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
a small reservoir constructed down stream (d/s)
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
of the main reservoir for holding water released
from the main reservoir.

Distribution Reservoirs: A distribution reservoir Storage Reservoirs: Storage reservoirs are also
is a small storage reservoir to tide over the peak called conservation reservoirs because they are
demand of water for municipal water supply or used to conserve water. Storage reservoirs are
irrigation. The distribution reservoir is helpful in constructed to store the water in the rainy
permitting the pumps to work at a uniform rate. season and to release it later when the river
It stores water during the period of lean flow is low
demand and supplies the same during the
period of high demand.
Detention Reservoirs: A detention reservoir
stores excess water during floods and releases it
Multipurpose Reservoirs: The are constructed after the flood. It is similar to a storage reservoir
for more than single purpose but is provided with large gated spillways and
sluiceways to permit flexibility of operation.
Flood Control Reservoirs: A flood control
reservoir is constructed for the purpose of flood Retarding Reservoirs: A retarding reservoir is
control. It protects the areas lying on its provided with spillways and sluiceways which
downstream side from the damages due to are ungated. The retarding reservoir stores a
flood. portion of the flood when the flood is rising and
releases it later when the flood is receding.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General What is a Dam?
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
A dam is a barrier built across a stream, river or estuary to hold
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics and control the flow of water for such uses as drinking water
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works supplies, irrigation, flood control and hydropower generation
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam etc.
1.7 Loads on dams
A dam is a barrier built to hold back flowing water.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General What is a Dam?
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Uses/Benefits of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics The benefits of dams are usually to the
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics advantage of humans.
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam They may include:
1.7 Loads on dams
- Irrigation
Average Dam Usage At Global Scale - Hydroelectric production
(Source ICOLD) - Flood control
- Recreational opportunities
- Navigation
- Industrial and Domestic water supply
- Aeration of water
- Stream flow regulation for various
purposes

Ecological benefits may include:

- Larger numbers of fish and birds in the
reservoir
- Greater habitat diversity
- River water quality / pollution control
and management
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Some disadvantages of dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
- Changes in temperature and flow in
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam the river downstream from the dam
1.7 Loads on dams
- Loss of flowing water habitat and
replacement with standing water
(reservoir) habitat
- Interruption of animal movements
along the course of the river
- Possible alteration of the fish
community in the region of the river.
- Interruption of genetic exchange
among populations inhabiting the river
course.
- Reduction in the delivery of river
nutrients to downstream section of the
river because of entrapment by the
reservoir.
- The loss of the floodplain habitat and
connectivity between the river and
bordering habitats upland
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
Dams are classified on several aspects,
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam some of the important aspects are as
1.7 Loads on dams follow

1. Based on Hydraulic Design

(i) Over Flow Dams (e.g. concrete

dams): Also called spillway dams.
Designed to pass excess flood water
over the crest which is kept lower
than the top of the main dam.
Mostly made of concrete.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 1. Based on Hydraulic Design
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam (ii) Non over flow dams (e.g.
1.7 Loads on dams
embankment dams):
Designed to pass excess flood waters
without overtopping the dam. Can
be constructed of a wide variety
of materials e.g. earth, rock fill,
concrete, or masonry

In practice, overflow dam & non-overflow

dam are sometimes combined, main
dam as non overflow dam made of earth
or rock fill & the overflow dam (spillway)
made of concrete or masonry.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 2. Based on Structural Design
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam (i) Gravity Dam:
1.7 Loads on dams
Relies on its weight for stability
(Depends on self weight to resist the
action of water stored on the
upstream side).

Usually roughly triangular in cross-section

with its base width in such a way related
to its height as to ensure stability against
overturning, sliding or foundation
crushing.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 2. Based on Structural Design
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam (ii) Curved Gravity Dam:
1.7 Loads on dams
Gravity dam that is curved in plan but
that does not rely upon arch
action for its stability.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 2. Based on Structural Design
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam (iii) Arch dam:
1.7 Loads on dams
This is a dam with an upstream
curvature which transmits the major
portion of the load or pressure to the
abutments (or canyon walls) rather
than to the bottom foundation. In
general, an arch dam has a base
thickness less than 60 % of its height.
Dams of greater thickness are
considered as arch-gravity or gravity
dams. The foundation may or may
not be strong. Made of masonry or
concrete
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 2. Based on Structural Design
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam (iv) Buttress Dam:
1.7 Loads on dams
It is mostly constructed of concrete. It
is a dam which consists of a
watertight supporting upstream face
or deck supported at intervals on
the downstream side by a series of
intermittent supports termed
buttresses.
(Buttresses are in the form of equally
spaced counterforts that transmit
water load and weight of deck to
foundation).
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 3. Based on Dam Height & Capacity
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Small Dams: Include All dams below 10m
1.7 Loads on dams
in height.
Small storage capacity usually 0.1-10 Mm3

Medium Dams: 10-15 m height >10 Mm3

Large Dams: All dams above 15m > 10

Mm3

Note that: Height is measured from

deepest foundation level to the crest
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 4. Based on Construction Material
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Embankment Dam: Any dam constructed
1.7 Loads on dams
of natural excavated materials placed
without addition of binding materials
other than those inherent in the natural
material.

Earthfill Embankments: An embankment

dam is constructed primarily of
compacted earth in either homogeneous
or zoned areas containing more than 50
percent of earth.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 4. Based on Construction Material
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Rockfill Dam: An embankment type of
1.7 Loads on dams
dam dependent for its stability primarily
on rock. As rockfill dams must contain an
impervious zone, usually of selected earth
with filter zones comprise a substantial
volume of the dam. The term rockfill dam
usually represents dams that contain
more than 50 percent of compacted or
dumped pervious rockfill.

Hydraulic fill Dam: An embankment dam

constructed of earth, sand, gravel or rock
generally from dredge material
conveyed to the site of placement by
suspension in flowing water.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 5. Based on Usage of Dam
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Storage Dam: Water is stored and later
1.7 Loads on dams
released through an outlet for consumptive or
non-consumptive purposes as per
requirements.

Diversion Dam: Dam with a small height with a

main purpose to raise water level to divert
flow into the off taking channels / canals/
hydropower pressure tunnels and penstock.
storage created by these is minimal (E.g a
weir). Sometimes called as barrage or canal
head works.

Detention Dam (Delay action dam / retarding

dam) Constructed to reduce the flood peaks
by impounding the flood flow in excess of the
capacity of the spillway or outlet works of the
dam and thereby minimize the effect of
sudden floods and also trap sediments.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 5. Based on Usage of Dam
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Coffer Dam: These are small temporary dams
1.7 Loads on dams
built across the river on upstream and
downstream side of the main dam in order to
keep the flow away and the dam
construction area (working area) dry.

Check Dam: It is a low height dam provided

for soil conservation and checking
uncontrolled transportation of sediments to
lower reaches

Multipurpose Dam: It is a dam which serves

more than one purpose e.g. Irrigation,
Hydropower, flood control, etc

Single Purpose Dam: It is a dam which serves

only one purpose e.g. Irrigation or
Hydropower or flood control.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 5. Based on Usage of Dam
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
Tailing Dam: Constructed away from any river
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam along a topographic slope by constructing
1.7 Loads on dams small dikes on three or all four sides to store
slurry/ waste of mineral mining and processing
facilities. The water evaporates or is
evacuated and the solid contents dry up
filling up the storage capacity.

Sand Dam: This is a dam built across a non-

perennial river characterized by heavy
sedimentation. The accumulated sediments
acts as a storage media for water
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General Classification Of Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics 5. Based on Usage of Dam
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Recharging Dam: There is no outlet provided
1.7 Loads on dams
to release water and all incoming water is
retained. The water infiltrates through the
foundation and/or dam body. The main
purpose of the dam is to induce recharge to
ground water system in the area. Small
release in d/s channel to allow seepage in the
channel bed.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Basic Terms & Definitions
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Full Supply Level (FSL) or Full Reservoir Level
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
(FRL): This is the highest water level to which the
1.7 Loads on dams water surface will rise during normal operating
conditions.

Minimum Pool level: The minimum pool level is Maximum water level (MWL): The maximum
the lowest level up to which the water is water level is the maximum level to which the
withdrawn from the reservoir under ordinary water surface will rise when the design flood
conditions. passes over the spillway.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Basic Terms & Definitions
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Dead Storage: The volume of water held below
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
the minimum pool level is called the dead
1.7 Loads on dams storage. It is provided to cater for the sediment
deposition by the impounding sediment laid in
water. Normally it is equivalent to volume of
sediment expected to be deposited in the
Live/useful storage: The volume of water stored reservoir during the design life reservoir.
between the full reservoir level (FRL) and the
minimum pool level is called the useful storage.
It assures the supply of water for specific period Flood/Surcharge Storage: Storage
to meet the demand. contained between maximum reservoir level
and full reservoir levels. It varies with
spillway capacity of dam for given design
flood.

Bank Storage: is developed in the voids of soil

cover in the reservoir area and becomes
available as seepage of water when water
levels drops down. It increases the reservoir
capacity over and above that given by
elevation storage curves.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Basic Terms & Definitions
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Valley Storage: The volume of water held by
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
the natural river channel in its valley up to the
1.7 Loads on dams top of its banks before the construction of a
reservoir is called the valley storage. The valley
storage depends upon the cross section of the
river.
Design Yield: The design yield is the yield
adopted in the design of a reservoir. The design
yield is usually fixed after considering the Safe Yield (Firm yield): Safe yield is the
urgency of the water needs and the amount of maximum quantity of water which can be
risk involved. supplied from a reservoir in a specified period of
time during a critical dry year.
.
Secondary Yield: is the quantity of water which
is available during the period of high flow in the
rivers when the yield is more than the safe yield.

Average Yield: The average yield is the

arithmetic average of the firm yield and the
secondary yield over a long period of time.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Key Aspects
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Whatever may be the use of a reservoir, its most
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works important function is to store water during
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
floods and to release it later.
1.7 Loads on dams

The storage capacity of a reservoir is, therefore,

its most important characteristics.

The available storage capacity of a reservoir

depends upon the Topography of the site and
the Height of dam.

Topography is defined as the “arrangement of

natural & artificial physical features of an area”.

To determine the available storage capacity of

a reservoir up to a certain level of water,
engineering surveys are usually conducted.

The Storage Capacity and the Water spread

area at different elevations can be determined
from the contour map (Area Capacity Curve).
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
Topography
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
This is the principal governing factor. E.g a
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam narrow river flowing between high, rocky
1.7 Loads on dams banks, i.e. U-shaped valley is suitable for
a concrete overflow dam.

A narrow V-shaped valley of top width

less than one fourth of its height with a
separate site for spillway is suitable for
arch dam.

A low wide gorge with a separate

spillway site is suitable for an earthen
dam.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Area-Elevation Curve: From the contour plan,
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works the water spread area of the reservoir at any
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
elevation is determined by measuring the area
1.7 Loads on dams
enclosed by the corresponding contour. In the
past planimeters were used for measuring the
area. Currently with the availability of various
software packages, this is generated easily. An
elevation-area curve is then drawn between
the surface area as abscissa and the elevation
as ordinate.

Elevation-Capacity Curve: The storage

capacity of the reservoir at any elevation is
determined from the water spread area at
various elevations. An elevation-storage volume
is plotted between the storage volume as
abscissa and the elevation as ordinate.

A Combination of the Area-Elevation & The

Elevation-Capacity curves is called the Area-
Capacity Curve
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Storage Capacity of Reservoirs
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Various Computer Packages self generate the
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works Volume, Areas & Elevations depending on the
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
field data obtained.
1.7 Loads on dams
Such software include;
1. Global Mapper
2. Surfer
3. ArcGIS
4. QGIS
5. OriginPro
6. Excel

These are mostly open source software

 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Geology & Nature Of Foundation Factors
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Foundation settlements: For instance silty and fine sandy
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works foundation are subject to settlement, seepage & toe
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
erosion. Properly designed low concrete gravity dam &
1.7 Loads on dams
earthfill can be constructed but not a rockfill dam.

Sound rock foundation: On good rocky foundation with

no fissures or faults any type of masonry or concrete dam
can be constructed.
Permeability of the foundation soil & Bearing capacity of
the underlying soil: E.g clay foundations are subject to
long range consolidation under dam weight (earth dam
can be constructed).

Availability of construction materials Main materials

required for the construction of dams of various types are
(i) sand, gravel, crushed stone as concrete aggregate (ii)
soils for embankments (iii) rock for embankments and
riprap Economical availability of these materials
determines the type of dam to be constructed.
Spillway location: A suitable site for the required size &
type of spillway also governs the type of dam to be
constructed. Spillway site and type is influenced by the
magnitude of the flood expected.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Geology & Nature Of Foundation Factors
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics Safety considerations: Safety of dam is of paramount
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works importance. The type of dam suitable for the given
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
foundation & site condition is also governed by the safety
1.7 Loads on dams
consideration. Loss of life & property arising from dam
incidents is an indication of severity in some cases.

Earthquake Zones: In earthquake prone regions, earth

quake forces have to be considered in the design of
dam.

Purpose of dam and economics: Intended use of the

dam such as continuous & dependable supply for
Irrigation & hydropower, flood control, detention dam;
etc.

Aesthetic considerations: Important when dam is for

recreation purposes

Life of Dam: Concrete or masonry dams have long life

compared to earth and rockfill dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
Site Selection Of A Dam
1.3 Embankment dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
Summary of factors in selection of site for a dam
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam 1. Catchment Characteristics
1.7 Loads on dams
2. Length of Dam
3. Height of Dam
4. Foundation Conditions
5. Availability of suitable Spillway location
6. Availability of suitable construction materials
7. Storage capacity
8. Construction and maintenance cost
9. Access to the site
10. Options for diversion of river during
construction
11. Compensation cost for property and land
acquisition
12.0 Quality of water
14. Sediment transport
15. Environmental conditions
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Embankment Dam: Any dam constructed of
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
natural excavated materials placed without
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam addition of binding materials other than those
1.7 Loads on dams inherent in the natural material, is called an
embankment dam.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Dam Crest: This is the top of the dam designed to
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam NOT to allow any flow or water. On embankment
1.7 Loads on dams Dams, the crest usually acts as a carriageway.

Rule of thumb is to have a Crest Width ranging

from 3m and above.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Free Board: This is the vertical distance of a dam
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam crest above the maximum reservoir water level.
1.7 Loads on dams The base of the freeboard is ideally equal to the
Dam Spillway Level.

Rule of thumb: The Freeboard Should be equal to

or above 0.75m. It is always advisable to have an
adequate freeboard as possible.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Outlet Works: Outlet works on a dam include all
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam features and means of discharging or abstracting
1.7 Loads on dams water from the reservoir.

This will usually include an intake chamber

upstream, an outflow pipe and the control valve
downstream.

The pipes used are of various sizes

ranging from 300mm diameter to a
size depending on the downstream
resource required.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Cut – Off Collars/Staunching Rings
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Outlet Pipe: Care should be made in order to
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam ensure that the placement of the pipe is carefully
1.7 Loads on dams done in order to avoid seepage along the pipe.

Cut-Off Collars are placed along the pipe length

to avoid seepage. This provides a long path for
water.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Cut – Off Collars/Staunching Rings
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Outlet Pipe: Care should be made in order to
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam ensure that the placement of the pipe is carefully
1.7 Loads on dams done in order to avoid seepage along the pipe.

Cut-Off Collars are placed along the pipe length

to avoid seepage. This provides a long path for
water.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Intake Works/Intake Towers: Intake towers are
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam mostly common in water supply schemes and
1.7 Loads on dams Hydro Power schemes
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
Intake Works/Intake Towers/Outlet: Intake towers
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam are mostly common in water supply schemes and
1.7 Loads on dams Hydro Power schemes.

These are dimensioned based on the water

requirement
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works Spillway: A spillway is a hydraulic structure
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
built at a dam site for diverting the surplus
water from a reservoir after it has been filled.
Service Spillway- Provides continuous,
or frequent regulated, or staged
It is a hydraulic structure that passes normal
releases (controlled) or unregulated (operational) and/or flood flows in a manner
(uncontrolled) releases from a reservoir that protects the structural integrity of the
without significant damage to the dam.
dam, dike, or appurtenant structures
due to releases up to and including the
maximum design discharge.
The purpose of a spillway is to guarantee
dam safety.
Service spillways - should be very
robust, erosion-resistant structures
consisting of mostly cast-in-place Spillways are hydraulically sized to safely
reinforced concrete and riprap
channel protection. pass floods equal to or less than the
Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF).

In Embankment Dams, the Spillways are

usually on the edge on the structure.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works One spillway is common, but depending on
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
the flood, an auxiliary or secondary spillway
is usually constructed.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Components of An Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works One spillway is common, but depending on
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
the flood, an auxiliary or secondary spillway
is usually constructed.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics Components of An Embankment Dam
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam One spillway is common, but depending on
1.7 Loads on dams
the flood, an auxiliary or secondary spillway
is usually constructed.
Emergency spillway - designed
to provide additional Auxiliary Spillway - infrequently used and
protection against overtopping may be a secondary spillway (augmenting
of a dam and/or dike and is a service spillway discharge capacity).
intended for use under unusual Auxiliary spillways may be less robust,
or extreme conditions such as erosion-resistant structures consisting of
misoperation or malfunction of some cast-in-place reinforced concrete,
the service spillway or outlet riprap channel protection and/or
works during very large, remote unarmored excavated channels.
floods (such as the PMF), or Emergency Spillway
other
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Takeaways On Spillways
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works 1. Ensure the spillway is protected from
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
erosion – energy dissipation means
2. Vegetation, boulders or stabilized ground
is used in ensuring the firm and stable
base for the spillway.
3. Maintain a slope that reduces on the
velocity of the water.
4. Ensure that the outfall is away from the
main dam wall to avoid water flowing
back and touching the main structure.
5. Depending on the slope and the soil
formation, concrete sills are placed at
intermittent intervals along the spillway
length.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Takeaways On Spillways
1.3 Embankment Dam types and characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works The sills are constructed out of masonry or
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
concrete but should be constructed to firm
ground.

The same principle of constructing retaining

walls is applicable

Sill
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
ZONED Embankment
characteristics Embankment Dam: Any dam constructed of
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
natural excavated materials placed without
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam addition of binding materials other than those
1.7 Loads on dams inherent in the natural material, is called an
embankment dam.

2:1
2.5:1
Impervious
Core
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Embankment Dam
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Core Trench/Cut-Off Trench: used to prevent seepage under
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics the dam, by cutting off seepage paths through underlying
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works pervious layers.
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
The core trench should penetrate into impervious material by a
minimum depth of not less than 1.00 metre.

The final excavation depth of the core trench will be

determined once the core trench is fully exposed.

Project Engineer should make a conscious decision regarding

the depth of the core trench.

The side slopes of the core trench should be a minimum of 1:1 or

1(h): 2(v).

Bottom Width of the Cutoff Trench (B) is Calculated as

Where
here h = reservoir head above the ground surface (m); and d =
depth of cutoff trench below the ground surface (m)
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Embankment Dam
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Filter Blanket and Toe Drain: Important for seepage
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics control to capture the phreatic line within the
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works downstream embankment and to relieve uplift pressures
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam on the downstream side of the embankment.
1.7 Loads on Dams (Embankments)
Normally used for dams exceeding 5 (five) meters in
height.

The filter blanket must satisfy three design

requirements:
- The filter material acts as a filter to prevent ingress of
the embankment material into the filter;
- The filter material acts as a drain and should be
sufficiently porous to alleviate seepage uplift forces
and to drawdown the phreatic line;
- The filter should have sufficient capacity to convey
the total seepage from both the foundation and
embankment.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Foundation:
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works Its important that the complete foundation area
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam of the dam should systematically be cleared of all
1.7 Loads on dams
vegetation and topsoil containing organic matter
including the removal of all logs, tree stumps, and
unconsolidated material. Sand and/or silt from the
river bed will also need to be cleared
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam With A Berm/Zoned
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works Some Embankment Dams Have a BERM,
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam depending on the dam height & Slopes
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Unzoned
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works This is a type of an embankment dam with a
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam homogenous material
1.7 Loads on dams
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Upstream Slope Protection
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
A protective layer of hand placed rip-rap (rubble
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam stone/hardcore) should be placed on the areas
1.7 Loads on dams of the upstream embankment slope which are
likely to be affected by the wave action.

This zone is usually 0.6 metres above the normal

water level to 2/3 of the water height. The
thickness of the rip-rap layer should not be less
than 0.30 metres. A gravel blanket (min 150mm)
will normally be provided under the rip-rap layer

Downstream Slope Protection

The best form of erosion protection for the
downstream face is a good cover of creeping
grass
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
Merits Of Embankment Dams
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics It may be equally suitable at sites in wide valleys and
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics relatively steep-sided gorges.
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams Its adaptability to a broad range of foundation
conditions, ranging from competent rock to soft and
compressible or relatively pervious soil foundations.

The use of natural material, minimizing the need to import

or transport large quantities of processed materials or
cement to the site.

Subject to satisfying essential design criteria, the

embankment design is extremely flexible in it ability to
accommodate different fill materials, e.g earth-fills
and/or rock-fills if suitably zoned internally.

The construction process is highly mechanized and is

effectively continuous.

Unit cost of earth-fill and rock-fill i.e cost per m3 is lower

compared with the concrete dams.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
QUIZE 1

An Engineer is Assigned to Under Take A Preliminary Survey and requested to quickly give an indicative Reservoir Capacity.

From The Preliminary Survey, the following Parameters are established.

1. The Thow Back of 10Km is possible at FSL.
2. The Length of one edge of the Contour at Full Supply Level (FSL) from the left to the Right is 500m.
3. The height of the contour at the crest of the proposed wall above the lowest Contour is 3300mm.

Estimate the capacity of Reservoir at Full Supply Level assuming a Free Board of 1750mm is to be maintained.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
Assignment 2

A survey was successfully undertaken by Engineer Mark & His Team for two sites. After analysis, the
team was able to generate two data sets.
As a Dam Engineer on the Team, you are advised to generate an Area-Capacity Curve for each
site. Between the two sites, recommend a site that is optima and worth investing in a dam.
Justify your selection citing any assumptions for the selection.

Due Date 17th March 2023

Site 1 Site 2
Elevation (m) Volume (m3) Area (m2) Elevation (m) Volume (m3) Area (m2)
1140 238,768.04 108,354.13
1148 318,486.98 202,248.37 1139.5 188,602.56 92,615.69
1147.5 225,788.81 168,950.25 1139 145,965.10 78,720.88
1138.5 109,991.04 65,793.67
1147 150,350.40 132,643.70
1138 80,615.37 50,977.80
1146.5 93,064.26 96,564.85 1137.5 58,631.40 39,090.71
1146 53,369.04 63,699.81 1137 41,062.37 31,634.32
1145.5 27,710.48 40,475.58 1136.5 27,155.85 24,379.40
1136 16,696.77 17,577.74
1145 11,864.71 22,702.86 1135.5 9,700.90 10,996.52
1144.5 4,014.59 10,746.71 1135 5,188.91 7,395.31
1134.5 2,233.35 4,458.47
1144 733.63 3,120.00
1134 610.63 2,007.62
1143.5 2.63 123.91 1133.5 58.38 419.97
1143 0.61 53.00 1133 25.35 213.21
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Site Selection
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Site investigations are important
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
Soil pits are usually dug or augered to appreciate
1.7 Loads on dams the top and subsoil layers.

Focus is to assess the condition of the foundation

area.

Trail pits and trenches recommended to allow for

visual assessment of soil profile.

Sampling should be taken for texture and

laboratory analysis.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Site Selection
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Site investigations are important
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
Soil Texture Class – Typical tool used in the
1.7 Loads on dams classification of soils. (USDA – United States
Department of Agriculture – Texture Diagram)

Clay: less than 0.002 mm diameter

Silt: 0.002-0.05 mm diameter
Sand: 0.05-2.00 mm diameter

Clays and Sand (with higher percentage of clay)

in a combined form are most suitable for earth
dam construction.

Generally, soils containing a significant

percentage of clay are ideal for the core but
clays with a tendency to crack should be
avoided.

To avoid cracking of clays, a blanket cover of

gravel is used
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Site Selection
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Mechanical Tests Done On Soils
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
Gradings: both mechanical sieving and
1.7 Loads on dams hydrometer tests to determine the particle size
distribution, identify the predominant soil type
and the likely permeability of the material.

Atterberg Tests: measure the plastic limit and

liquid limit of soil to enable the material to be
classified and its suitability as a fill material
assessed.

Proctor Test: to determine the maximum dry

density and the optimum moisture content for use
in compaction control during construction. Soils
compacted to the maximum dry density are then
at their maximum strength.

Crumb Test: to determine the disposition of the

soil to disperse.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Site Selection
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Site investigations are important
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
Clay Soils – Best used for Core & Cut Off
1.7 Loads on dams materials, BUT must be well compacted.

Silts – You want to avoid having silt as part of your

embankment due to its lack of cohesion
properties, poor soil structure, fine material &
difficulty in compaction.

Sands – Used as a filter material in the toe drain

area
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site MATERIALS TO AVOID
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Organic material (except when used to top dress the
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics embankment and other parts of the dam site at the end
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
of the construction period).
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams
Decomposing material.

Material with a high proportion of mica, which forms slip

surfaces in soils of low clay percentages.

Calcitic soils such as clays derived from limestone which,

although generally stable, are usually very permeable.

Fine silts, which are unsuitable for any zone of the dam.

Cracking clays that fracture when dry and may not seal
up when wetted in time to prevent piping through them.

Sodic soils, which are fine clays with a high proportion of

sodium. They are difficult to identify in the field, so any
fine clay should be analysed.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics It is always important that all potential hydraulic
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics failures are prevented through
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams a) Spillway capacity is sufficient to pass the peak
flow.
b) Overtopping by wave action at maximum
water level is prevented.
c) The original height of structure is sufficient to
maintain the minimum safe freeboard after
settlement has occurred.
d) Erosion of the embankment due to wave
action and surface runoff does not occur.
e) The crest should be wide enough to withstand
wave action and earthquake shock.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics To prevent the failures due to seepage through
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
a) Quantity of seepage water through the dam
1.7 Loads on dams section and foundation should be limited.
b) The seepage line should be well within the
downstream face of the dam to prevent
sloughing.
c) Seepage water through the dam or
foundation should not remove any particle or
in other words cause piping.
d) There should not be any leakage of water
from the upstream to the downstream face.
Such leakage may occur through conduits, at
joints between earth and concrete sections or
through holes made by aquatic animals
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics To prevent structural failures:
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
(a) The upstream and downstream slopes of the
1.7 Loads on dams embankment should be stable under all
loading 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.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Crest Width
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams You may recall in the previous lecture that as a
Rule of Thumb, a Crest Width of 3m as minimum is
sometimes applied.

The following Formulas Apply in Designing the

Crest Width.

Where, W is the Crest Width in m, H is the Height of

the Dam Wall or Embankment in m
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Settlement Allowance
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams Every Embankment Dam will with time settle. The
extent of settlement depends on the materials
used and the level of compaction during
construction.

As a Rule of Thumb, allow for 5% to 10%

additional height of the dam wall.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Catchment Yield
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam You want to estimate the yield of the catchment in
1.7 Loads on dams order to ascertain how much you can harvest if
the dam is built.
The Expression
Sizing of your dam is also dependent on the yield
of the catchment.
Catchment Yield (m3) = (A*P*c)/1000

Where; Factors that affect the Yield of a Catchment are

1. Catchment Area
2. Annual Rainfall
A is the Catchment Area (m2) 3. Yield Coefficient or Runoff Coefficient
P is the Mean Annual Precipitation
(mm)
C is the Dimensionless Coefficient
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Catchment Area Determination
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam
1.7 Loads on dams It is always important to know what the
catchment size is.

Accurate estimation of a catchment is essential in

calculation of catchment yield & Peak Flood.

This is done using the available software

packages.

Example.
Arcmap/GIS, Global
Mapper, etc

Example: Determine the Catchment Area

(Students to read more of generation of

catchment areas using GIS and Global
Mapper – Youtube Tutorials available)
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Precipitation
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam Rainfall or Precipitation Data is available from
1.7 Loads on dams various sources.

Its always important to obtain as much data as

possible for a long range, ideally 30 year data
series is recommended.

A spatial rainfall data representation is important

rather than localized data.

Possible methods for mean rainfall calculation are

1.0 Arithmetic Mean (Students to Read
More on this)
2.0 Thiessen Polygon (Students to Read
more on this – Hydrology
notes)
3.0 Ishohyetal Method (Read more on this
– Hydrology notes)
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Runoff Or Yield Coefficient
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam After any rainfall event, only a small proportion of
1.7 Loads on dams the precipitation will run off into the watercourse
and consequently fill the dam.

Majority of the precipitation infiltrates into the

ground or is intercepted by vegetation
(remember Hydrological Cycle).

The Runoff Coefficient is a factor of land use

activities, the type of soil, infiltration & water
holding capacities of the soil, the type of
groundcover & vegetation present, location of
catchment, evaporation rates, etc.

Currently, using GIS packages, estimation of the

runoff coefficient is done.
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
1.1 General
1.2 Criteria for Selection of Dam Site Embankment Dam – Design Criteria
1.3 Embankment Dam types and
characteristics Spillway Sizing
1.4 Concrete dam types and characteristics
1.5 Spillways, outlets and ancillary works
1.6 Site assessment and selection of type of dam The typical Formula used in Spillway sizing for
1.7 Loads on dams Embankment Dams is

Q=1.7kbD3/2

Where
Q is the Maximum Probable Flood (m3/s)
b is the Spillway Width (m), D is the depth
of the Water above the Spillway (m)
k is the coefficient or constant
representing entrance losses and is usually
0.95 for normal entry conditions

When sizing the spillway, it is important to use

Maximum Probable Flood.

Students to Read more on generation of IDF

(Intensity – Duration – Frequency)
1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
Further Reading on Embankment Dams

https://www.fao.org/publications/card/en/c/8c4
e96a6-1c34-5cc5-879d-10320bb9d7e1/

https://www.usbr.gov/tsc/techreferences/mands/
mands-pdfs/GravityDams.pdf

https://issuu.com/jorgebrayhanchavezravelo/doc
s/_icold_committee_on_seismic_aspects

https://www.academia.edu/23062266/Design_Sta
ndards_No_13_Embankment_Dams_Chapter_1_G
eneral_Design_Standards_Phase_4_Final
 1.0 Elements Of Dam Engineering
Assignment 3
Question 1.

The runoff coefficient of a catchment is estimated at 2.5% after conducting a land use analysis of the Mulungushi Catchment.
Rainfall data is collected from 5 weather stations as shown in table 1. If the catchment area is 1,000Ha, determine
(i) The yield of the catchment.
(ii) The yield of the catchment if the Adjusted Catchment Yield has the following applicable adjustment factors, Soil Factor
(SF) of 1.5, the Groundcover Factor (GF) of 0.1 and the Location Factor (LF) of 0.5.
(iii) Generate a monthly mean precipitation graph for all the five stations.

Table 1. Precipitation Data (mm)

Station Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Total

1 324.9 52.8 87.1 11.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 48.3 0.8 67.1 153.4 334.5 1080.3

2 214.9 173 49 0 0 0 0 0 0 64 108 240 848.6

3 217.9 360 61 28 0 0 0 0 0 5.8 87.6 228 989.2

4 195.1 190 212 99 0 0 0 0 11 1.5 135 191 1034

5 223 189 108 0 4.1 0 0 0 0 42 16.5 337 918.9

Question 2
If the side slopes for the dam at its cross section profile are 1(V):3(H) upstream and 1(V):2.5(H) downstream, with the crest
width of 6000mm and dam height of 0.015km. Find the cross section length of the dam wall with a demonstration of a sketch.

Assignment Due on 24thMarch 2023