1. What is Thrust at Abutments of Arch Dam?

Definition: This calculator computes the thrust exerted by water retained behind an arch dam on its abutments, considering radial pressure, arch radius, abutment thrust, and angle.

Purpose: It helps civil engineers design arch dams by calculating the horizontal forces acting on the dam structure.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Thrust from water (N/m)
• \( P_v \) — Radial pressure (Pa/m²)
• \( r \) — Radius to center line of arch (m)
• \( F \) — Thrust of abutments (N)
• \( \theta \) — Angle (radians)

Explanation: The formula calculates the water thrust by considering the radial pressure distribution and the arch geometry.

3. Importance of Thrust Calculation

Details: Accurate thrust calculation ensures structural stability of arch dams, preventing failure due to water pressure forces.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter radial pressure, arch radius, abutment thrust, angle in radians, and tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is radial pressure in arch dams?
A: Radial pressure is the water pressure acting perpendicular to the arch surface, varying with water depth.

Q2: How is the angle θ determined?
A: θ is the angle between the vertical centerline and the point where thrust is being calculated, measured in radians.

Q3: Why include a tolerance percentage?
A: The tolerance accounts for construction variations and material uncertainties in real-world applications.

Q4: What's a typical radial pressure value?
A: It varies with water depth, but might range from 10,000 to 50,000 Pa/m² for medium-height dams.

Q5: How does arch radius affect thrust?
A: Larger radii generally reduce thrust concentration by distributing forces over more abutment area.

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