Centrifuge Testing of Gravity Dam Models
CEAE Dept., University of Colorado, Boulder
Campus Box 428, Boulder, CO 80309-0428
(303) 492-1622, Fax: (303) 530-7605
http://civil.colorado.edu/~saouma/saouma.html
Model tests of gravity dams can only be undertaken in a centrifugal environment in order to properly respect all similitude laws. Through an EPRI project, testing procedures, and instrumentations were developed at the University of Colorado to perform model tests of concrete dams.
A model is first carfully prepared and instrumented, then placed in a specially built container, which in turn is mounted on the centrifuge rotating arm. Once the desired g level (inversely proportional to the model scale) is reached, valves are opened, and the dam impounded. Then, once the water reaches the crest, overtopping and possibly failure are simulated by opening compressed air valves.
Throughout the test, strains, displacements, pressures and crack trajectories are continuously monitored and recorded for final analysis.
To complement the experimental test, sophisticated fracture mechanics based analysis are performed using the MERLIN code also developed through the auspiced of the EPRI.
At the University of Colorado, we stand ready to provide you with a unique combination of experimental and computational expertise for your dam safety investigation.