Non-linear 3D simulation of the construction and impounding of a CFRD

Abstract

A general methodology for the non-linear 3D numerical simulation of the phased construction and subsequent reservoir impoundment of a concrete faced rockfill dam built in a narrow canyon is presented. The common characteristic among these three CFRDs is the relatively low average stiffness of the rockfill material. Assessment of the dam and slab performance based on simulation of the Messochora CFRD phased-construction and impounding, and the interpretation of the results of the numerical simulation, in the light of the experience from previous cases in which cracks did or did not occur. A 30 meter wide tension zone running parallel to the plinth develops at the lower half of the slab. Consistent comparisons of the results obtained from 2D analyses and from 3D analyses, taking into account the true canyon geometry, demonstrated that the 2D analyses yield much higher displacements and stresses in the slab compared with those from the 3D analyses.