Seepage Analysis and Control of the Sahand Rockfill Dam Drainage using Instrumental Data

TL;DR

This study uses finite element modeling with PLAXIS to analyze seepage in Sahand Dam, validating results with instrumental data and developing an optimized seepage control model that significantly reduces dam discharge.

Contribution

It introduces a validated finite element seepage analysis for Sahand Dam and proposes an optimized model reducing seepage through combined seepage control measures.

Findings

Clay blanket and upstream concrete cover significantly reduce seepage discharge.

The optimized model decreases dam seepage to less than one-third of the initial value.

Instrumental data validation confirms the accuracy of the finite element analysis.

Abstract

The finite element method is an effective numerical method for accurate analysis of seepage that can determine the values of outlet flow and pore water pressures at any point of the body and the foundation. In the present study, the seepage analysis of Sahand Dam has been performed using finite element method and PLAXIS software and the dam has been validated by instrumental data's. After validation, permeability coefficients have been used to investigate the factors affecting seepage in the normal level of the reservoir such as cutoff wall, upstream concrete cover, clay blanket and the effect of foundation depth. Results show that the implementation of clay blanket with concrete cover of upstream together, causes a significant decrease in discharge of the dam. Finally, by investigating the effective parameters on the dam seepage, a complex optimum model was developed. In the mentioned model, discharge amount was decreased to one over third of the corresponding value of the initial dam model.