Computation of Thermal-Stresses and Contraction Joint Distance of RCC Dams

Abstract

A new approach in 3D numerical modeling for unsteady phased thermal-stress analysis of a massive concrete hydraulic structure is presented. The temperature field is computed first, providing a drive for the unsteady, nonlinear, viscoelastic, stress-strain analysis. This model is devised with actual initial and boundary conditions, appropriate material properties, and the observed concrete placement schedule. The verification is based on the field investigations of the Platanovryssi dam. The results of a long-term analysis have shown close agreement with the observed dam conditions. The proposed model presents a reliable tool for thermal-stress computation and transverse contraction joint distance evaluation.

Keywords:

• Dams
• Monolith-length
• Roller-Compacted Concrete
• Thermal stresses

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Serbia under the project no. TR 37009 “Monitoring and Modeling of Rivers and Reservoirs – Physical, Chemical, Biological and Morphodynamic Parameters.”