1. What is Deflection due to Thrust on Arch Dam?

Definition: This calculator estimates the deflection caused by thrust forces on an arch dam based on abutment thrust, material constant, and rock elasticity.

Purpose: It helps civil engineers and dam designers evaluate structural deformation under load conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \delta \) — Deflection due to moments (meters)
• \( F \) — Thrust of abutments (Newtons)
• \( K2 \) — Constant depending on b/a ratio and Poisson ratio
• \( E \) — Elastic modulus of rock (Pascals)

Explanation: The thrust force multiplied by the material constant gives the moment effect, which when divided by the rock's elasticity gives the resulting deflection.

3. Importance of Deflection Calculation

Details: Accurate deflection estimation ensures dam structural integrity, predicts deformation under load, and helps in design optimization.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the thrust force in Newtons (±5%), material constant K2 (±5%), and elastic modulus in Pascals (±5%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is typical thrust range for arch dams?
A: Thrust varies greatly but often ranges from 10^6 to 10^9 N depending on dam size and water pressure.

Q2: How is constant K2 determined?
A: K2 depends on the dam's geometry (b/a ratio) and material properties (Poisson ratio), typically determined through engineering tables.

Q3: What affects elastic modulus of rock?
A: Rock type, quality, weathering, and confinement pressure significantly influence elastic modulus.

Q4: Why is ±5% accuracy important?
A: Material properties and loads often have natural variability; the 5% range accounts for this uncertainty.

Q5: What deflection is considered acceptable?
A: Acceptable deflection depends on dam size but is typically limited to small fractions (e.g., 1/1000) of the structural dimensions.

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