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Seepage Discharge in Earth Dam Calculator

Seepage Discharge Formula:

\[ Q_s = k \times i \times A_{cs} \times t \]

m/s
m²
s

1. What is Seepage Discharge in Earth Dam?

Definition: Seepage discharge is the volume of water flowing through the dam's soil in unit time, which is crucial for dam stability analysis.

Purpose: This calculator helps civil engineers estimate water seepage through earth dams to ensure proper design and safety measures.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Darcy's law formula:

\[ Q_s = k \times i \times A_{cs} \times t \]

Where:

  • \( Q_s \) — Seepage discharge (m³/s)
  • \( k \) — Coefficient of permeability (m/s)
  • \( i \) — Hydraulic gradient (dimensionless)
  • \( A_{cs} \) — Cross-sectional area (m²)
  • \( t \) — Time (seconds)

Explanation: The formula calculates how much water passes through the dam's soil based on permeability, hydraulic gradient, area, and time.

3. Importance of Seepage Calculation

Details: Accurate seepage estimation prevents dam failure, controls water loss, and ensures structural integrity by identifying potential piping risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the coefficient of permeability (default 0.1 m/s), hydraulic gradient (default 2.02 ±5%), cross-sectional area (default 13 m²), and time (default 6 s).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical permeability coefficient for earth dams?
A: It varies from 10-9 m/s (clay) to 10-3 m/s (gravel). Common earth dam materials range 10-6 to 10-4 m/s.

Q2: Why is hydraulic gradient important?
A: It represents the driving force for seepage. High gradients may indicate potential erosion (piping) risks.

Q3: How do I measure cross-sectional area?
A: It's the area perpendicular to flow direction, typically the dam's base width × height of seepage zone.

Q4: What affects permeability coefficient?
A: Soil type, compaction, saturation, and particle size distribution significantly influence permeability.

Q5: How accurate are these calculations?
A: Results are estimates (±5%). Field tests provide more accurate permeability values for critical projects.

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