Maximum Height in Elementary Profile without Exceeding Allowable Compressive Stress of Dam Calculator

Minimum Possible Height Formula:

\[ H_{min} = \frac{f}{\Gamma_w \times (S_c - C + 1)} \]

Allowable Compressive Stress:

kN/m²

Unit Weight of Water:

kN/m³

Specific Gravity of Dam Material:

Seepage Coefficient:

Minimum Possible Height (m):

1. What is Maximum Height in Elementary Profile Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the maximum possible height of a gravity dam without exceeding the allowable compressive stress of the dam material.

Purpose: It helps civil engineers design gravity dams that won't fail due to compressive stress in the dam material.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ H_{min} = \frac{f}{\Gamma_w \times (S_c - C + 1)} \]

Where:

\( H_{min} \) — Minimum possible height (meters)
\( f \) — Allowable compressive stress of dam material (kN/m²)
\( \Gamma_w \) — Unit weight of water (kN/m³)
\( S_c \) — Specific gravity of dam material
\( C \) — Seepage coefficient at base of dam

Explanation: The formula calculates the maximum height where the compressive stress at the base doesn't exceed the allowable stress for the dam material.

3. Importance of Dam Height Calculation

Details: Proper height calculation ensures dam stability, prevents material failure, and maintains structural integrity under water pressure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the allowable compressive stress, unit weight of water (default 9.807 kN/m³), specific gravity (default 2.2), and seepage coefficient (default 0.8). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical allowable compressive stress for concrete dams?
A: Typically ranges from 1000-3000 kN/m² depending on the concrete mix and design standards.

Q2: Why is unit weight of water important?
A: It determines the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the water on the dam structure.

Q3: What affects the specific gravity of dam material?
A: The type of material used (concrete, masonry) and its density composition.

Q4: How does seepage coefficient impact dam height?
A: Higher seepage reduces the effective stress in the dam, potentially allowing for greater heights.

Q5: Is this calculation conservative?
A: Yes, it provides a theoretical maximum height without considering other factors like earthquakes or foundation conditions.