Dams are structures built along the course of a river or flowing stream to store or increase its energy. Aside from water, dams can also be used to store other types of liquids. Based on the material used in their construction, dams constructed with earth or laterite are called earth dams, while those constructed with masonry concrete are called gravity dams. In this study, we will learn how to analyze gravity dams. Common types of gravity dams include:
1. Rectangular Gravity Dams
2. Trapezoidal gravity dams with water face vertical and
3. Trapezoidal gravity dams with water face inclined
It is important to note that the stability of a gravity dam depends on its weight, friction between the soil and the base of the dam, pressure exerted by the water retained by the dam, and the absence of tensional forces on the dam (since concrete is weak in tension).
Watch the video to learn how to analyze a rectangular gravity dam.