3D Seismic Analyses of Interaction Dam-Reservoir System

Abstract

The seismic response of a concrete dam depends upon its contact interaction with the water reservoir. This paper aims to present the three-dimensional nonlinear Analyses of interaction dam-reservoir system. The Oued Fodda concrete gravity dam located in Chlef, in northwestern part of Algeria, is used for illustrative purposes in this study. Nonlinear seismic analyses are carried out by using both empty and full reservoir cases, to present the effect of hydrodynamic pressure of the reservoir water on the seismic behavior of the concrete dam. The Drucker-Prager model is considered in the nonlinear analysis for concrete of dam body. The hydrodynamic pressure of reservoir water is modeled using three-dimensional fluid finite elements based on Lagrangian approach. Dam-reservoir contact interface is modeled with three-dimensional surface-to-surface contact elements based on the Coulomb’s friction. A numerical investigation of the effect of hydrodynamic interaction and sliding of the water along the dam-reservoir interface is performed. The maximum horizontal displacements and principal stresses in the different sections of the dam are presented as well as seismic behavior of dam is examined in empty and full reservoir cases. Besides, the damage placements in the concrete dam are evaluated.