Static Analysis of Gravity Dams Considering Foundation-Structure Interaction

A dam is an artificial barrier constructed across a stream channel to impound water. Analysis of stresses and displacements are inevitable for the structural design and failure analysis of dams. This paper deals with the numerical simulation of structural response of gravity dams, duly considering the foundation-structure interaction. The optimum depth and width of foundation extend to be considered in the numerical model is also studied. A parametric study based on the stiffness of the foundation is also exercised. As an application of the developed model, a case study of Peechi gravity dam is presented. This study proved the importance of consideration of foundation-structure interaction in the structural analysis of dams. The developed numerical model can be further improved for performing seismic analysis of gravity dams, considering the foundation-structure as well as fluid-structure interactions.