Wanted Gravity Dam

_19
Design and Construction of Gravity Dams

19.1. Definition, etc.
A gravity dam has been defined as a structure which is designed in such a way that
its own weight resists the external forces. This type of a structure is most durable and
solid, and requires very little maintenance. Such a dam may be constructed of masonry
or concrete. However, concrete gravity dams are preferred these days and mostly con-
structed. They can be constructed with ease on any dam site, where there exists a natural
foundation strong enough to bear the enormous weight of the dam. Such a dam is
generally straight in plan, although sometimes, it may be slightly curve. The line of the
upstream face of the dam, or the line of the crown of the dam if the upstream face in
sloping, is taken as the reference line for layout purposes, etc. and is known as the Base
line of the dam or the 'Axis. of the Dam'. When suitable conditions are available, such
dams car be constructed up to great heights. The highest gravity dam in the world is
Grand Dixence Dam in Switzerland (284
m), followed by ·Bhakta dam in India
(226 m); both are of concrete gravity
type. The ratio of base width to height of
·Upstream face
all these structures is less than 1 : 1. may be vertical
or slanfing
19.2. Typical Cross-section
Drainage gallery·
A typicafcross~section of a co~crete
Slanting face
gravity dam is shown in Fig. 19.1. The
Verfical face
upstream face may by kept throughout ver-
Toe
tical or partly slanting for some of its
length, as shown. A drainage gallery i~ r--l•--56m ---~!
provided in order to relieve the uplift pres~
sure exerted by the seeping water. Fig. 19. l. A typical cross-section of ·
a cqncrete gravity dam. ·
19.3. Forces Actin_g on Gravity Dam
The various external forces acting on a gravity dam may be :
(I) Water Pressure
--~-(2ftl'pli:fcPte·ssute----:-c------
(3) Pressure due to earthquake forces

(4) Silt Pressure
(5) Wave Pressure
(6) Ice Pressure
· (7)The stabilising force is the weight of the dam itself.
984 __
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF GRAVITY DAMS 985
An estimation and description of these forces is
given below : ·
(1) Water Pressure. Water pressure (P) is the
most major external force acting on such dam. The a
horizontal water pressure, exerted by the weight of
the water stored on the upstream side on the dam can
be estimated from rule of hydrostatic press"ure dis-
tribution ; which is triangular in shape, as shown in
Fig. 19.2 (a) and (b). When the upstream face is ver-
tical, the intensity is zero at the water surface and
Where Yw =unit weight of water
equal to %)! at the base ; where Yw is the unit weight
9.81kN/m3 =1000 kgf/m 3
of water and His the depth of water : as shown in Fig. Fig. 19.2. (a)
19.2 (a). The resultant force due to this external water
t
= ywfi2, acting at H/3 from base.
When the upstream face is partly vertical and partly inclined [Fig. 19.2 (b)], the
resulting water force can be resolved into horizontal component (P1z) and vertical com-
ponent cPv). The horizontal component P1z = ~ Yw H2 acts at ~ from the base ; and the
vertical component cPv) is equal to the weight of the water stored in column ABCA and
acts at the e.g. of the area.
Similarly; if there is tail water on the downstream side, it will have horizontal and
vertical components, as shown in Fig. 19.2. (b).
Fig. 19.2 (b)

(2) Uplift Pressure. Water seeping through the pores, cracks and fissures of the
foundation material, and water seeping through dam body and then to the bottom through
the jo_i!lts__ ?~t_\\'_een t~e l:)_o~y_ <:>Lth.~ _d~m .~l_l~-' !!~f()~mdation ~i_Ql_~~~e ; e,_~l"~ ~n_p_p_l!f!_ . 1
pressure on the base of the dam. It is the second major external force and must be
accounted for in all calculations. Such an uplift force virtually reduces the downward
weight of the body of the dam and hence, acts against the dam stability.
The amount of uplift is a matter of research and the prese.ntrecommendations which
are followed, are those suggested by United States Bureau of Reclamation (U.S.B.R.).
According to these recommendations, the uplift pressure intensities at the heel and the
toe should be taken equal to their respective hydrostatic pressures and joined by a
986 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
- . Tail
~--No drainage. water
. g_aller~: >-----.c~~=
~t----o-f , . .,._ " : ' . : ·•. H'
-
l
Pu
Fig. 19.3 (a) Uplift pressure (U) diagram, Fig. 19.3 (b) Uplift pressure (U) diagram,
when no drainage gallery is provided. when drainage gallery is provided.
sttaight line in between, as shown in Fig. 19.3 (a). When drainage galleries are provided
to relieve the uplift, the recommended uplift at the face of the gallery is equal to the
hydrostatic pressure at toe (Yw · Ff) plus trd the difference of the hydrostatic pressures
t
at the heel and the toe ; as shown in Fig. 19.3 (b) ; i.e. [ Yw · H' + (Yw · H -Yw · H')J It
is also assumed that the uplift pressures are not affected by the earthquake forces.
The uplift pressures can be controlled by constructing cut-off walls under the
upstream face, by constructing drainage channels between the darn and its foundation,
and by pressure grouti<; the. foundation.
· (3) Earthquake Forces~ If the-dam-10-becdesigrred;-is to be ·located in a re·gfon-whicli- --- --
is susceptible to earthquakes, allowance must be made for the stresses generated by the
earthquakes.
An earthquake produces waves which are capable of shaking the Earth upon which
1
the dam is resting, in every possible direction.
The effect of an earthquake is, therefore, equivalent to imparting an acceleration to
the foundations of the dam in the direction in which the wave is travelling at the moment.
Earthquake wave may move in any direction, and for design purposes, it has to be
resolved in vertical and horizontal components. Hence, two accelerations, i.e. one
horizontal acceleration (ah) and one vertical acceleration (av) are induced by an
earthquake. The values of these accelerations are generally expressed as percentage of
the acceleration due to gravity (g), i:e.·a = 0.1gor0.2 g, etc. _
I
.
"
lninaia,tfie entire country has. been divided il~fo five-sel.smlC-zones-depending upon_____ \_

the severity of the earthquakes. Zone Vis the most serious zone and includes Himalayan .
regions of North India. A map and description of these·zones is available in "Physical
and Engineering Geology" (1999 edition) by the same author, and can be referred to, in
order to obtain an idea of the value of the a which should be chosen for designs. On an
average, a value of a equal to 0.1 to 0.15 g is .generally sufficient for high dams I
in
seismic zones. A value equal to 0.15 g has been used in Bhakra dam design, and 0.2 g
in Ramganga -dam design. However, for areas not subjected to extreme earthquakes,
ah= 0.1 g and av= 0.05 g may by used. In areas of no earthquakes or very less
earthquakes, these forces may be neglected. In extremely seismic regions and in con-
servative designs, even a value upto 0.3 .g may sometimes be adopted. -
Effect of vertical acceleration (Uy). A vertical acceleration may either act
downward or upward. When it is acting in the upward direction, then the foundation of
the dam will be lifted upward and becomes closer to the body of the dam, and thus the
effective weight of the dam will increase and hence, the ~tress developed will increase.
When the vertical acceleration is acting downward, the foundation shall try to move
downward away from the dam body ; thus reducing the effective weight ana the stability'
of the dam, and hence is the worst case for designs.
Such acceleration will, therefore, exert an inertia force given by
W Uy (i.e. force= Mass x Acceleration)

g
where W is the total weight of the dam.
:. The net effective weight of the dam= W- W ·av.

g
If
[where kv is the fraction of gravity adopted for ver-
tical acceler-iition, such as 0.1 or 0.2, etc.].
Then, the net effective weight of the dam
= W - -w
g
· kv · g = W [ 1 - kv].
In other words, vertical acceleration reduces the unit weight of the darn material
and that of water to (1 -kv) times t.lieir original unit weights.
Effects of hor'iz'ontal acceleration (a1,}. Horizontal acceleration may cause the
following two forces :
(i) Hydrodynamic pressure ; and
(ii) Horizontal inertia force.
Both these forces are discussed below :
1
\ (i) Hydrodynamic pressures. Horizontal acceleration acting towards the reservoir

· .·~'· causes a momentary increase in the water
pressure, as the foundation and dam ac-
celerate towards the reservoir and the water
resists the movement owing to its inertia.
The extra pressure exerted by this process
is known as hydrodynamic pressure.
;.H:0·424H · ---- -
-- -Ac-ccfraTngTOVon-Karman, tne
-..-....~---''--'-"" amount· of this hydrodynamic force (Pe) is
~Pe-j
Hydrodynamic given by.
pressure distr"1bution 2
Pe= 0.555 · kh 'Yw · H ... (19.1)
Fig. 19.4 . Shewing development of
4
Hydrodynamic pressure by a horizontal
earthquake moving towards the reservoir. A
similar pressure will be developed on dis tail base, as shown in Fig. 19 .4.
3
and it acts at the height of ~ above the
"
water when th~ earthquake is reversed.
886 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING A.ND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
(2) Rook-fill dams.

(3) Solid masonry gravity dams.·
These types are discussed below :
. (1) Earth Dams. Earth dams are made of soil that is pounded down solidly. They
are built in areas where the foundation is not strong enough to beat the weight of a
concrete dam, and where earth is more easily- available as a building material compared
to concrete or stone or rock. ·
Some important earth dams of the world are :
(i) .Green mountiiin dam on Coloracio river in U.S.A.
(ii) Swift dam in Washington inU.S.A.
(iii) Side flanks of Nagarjun Sagar dam in India.
(iv) Trinity Dam in California in U.S.A.
(v) Maithan Dam in India (which is partly Earthen and partly Rockfill).
(2) Rockfill Dams. Rock.fill are formed of loose rocks and boulders piled in the
river bed. A slab of reinforced concrete is often laid across the upstream face of a rockfill
dam to make it water-tight. .
Some important rock-fill dams of the world are ;
(i) The Salt Springs Dam in California (345' high) in U.S.A.
(ii) The San Gabriel No. 1 Dam (321' high) in U.S.A.
(iii) Cougar Dam on Mc-Knezie River in Oregon (445' high) in U.S.A.
(3) Solid-masonry Gravity dams. These are familiar to us by now, after we have talked
about Aswan, Roosevelt, Hoover, and above all Bhakra dam.
These big dams are expensive to be built but are more durable and solid than earth
and rock dams. They can be constructed on any dam site, where there is a natural
_foundation strong-enough-to bear the great-weight oHhedam: -- -·-· - ----- -c- -- - - -
These three types of dams were all found in ancient days. In recent times.four other
types of dams have come into practice. They are :
(4) Hollow masonry gravity dams ;
(5) Timber dams ;
(6) Steel dams ; and
(7) Arch dams.
(4) The hollow masonry gravity dams. These are essentially designed on the same
lines on which the solid masonry gravity dams are designed. But they contain less
concrete or masonry ; about 35 to 40% or so. Generally, the weight of water is carried
by a deck of R.C.C. or by arches that share the weight 'burden. They are difficult to build
and are adopted only if very skilled labour is easily available, otherwise the labour cost
_.-is-too-high-to-build its-complex structure,
(5) Steel dams. These are not used for major works. Today, steel clams are used as
temporary coffer dams needed for the construction of permanent dams. Steel coffer dams
are usually reinforced with timber or earthfill.
(6) Timber dams. These are short lived, since in a few years time, rotting sets in.
Their life is not more than 30 to 40 years and must have regular maintenance during
that time. However they are valuable in agricultural areas, where a cattle raiser may
need a pool for his live stock to drink from, and for meeting other such low-level needs.
DAMS IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR 887
(7) Arch dams. Arch dams are very complex and complicated. They make use of ·
the horizontal arch action in place of weight to hold back the water. They are best suited
at sites where the dam must be extremely high and narrow, Some examples are :
(i) Sautet dam on the Drac River in France, 414' high, but only 230' long at top
· and 85' long at bottom of the gorge, 56' thick at bottom and 8' thick at top.
(ii) The Tignes dam in France (592' high).
(iii) Mauvoisin.dam on the Drause River in Switzerland, (780' high).
(iv) Idduki dam in Kerala State, across the Periyar river, which is the only arch dam in
India. It is 366 m (1200') long double curvature arch dam, made in concrete, .and
has a height of about 170 in (560').
17 .3. Prqblems in .Dam Construction
Dams are extremely useful things. Anyone who lives in Punjab or at Asansol in
West Bengal, knows how valuable dams are. The farmers of Punjab and people getting
electricity from the Bhakra sing praises for it. The people of areas benefitted by various
dams and other ancillary works on Damodar river are really thankful to those human
beings who have miraculousy harnessed the Damodar river for them. The prosperity and
welfare of millions and billions of people depend directly on these towering handsome
dams with which the nation's rivers have been harnessed.
But dams can cause problems too. Dams have drawbacks and disadvantages also.
Let us here discuss some of the negative features of dams and let us see what can be
done to overcome them. There are four major problems, in general, which are posed by
such huge constructions. They are:
(1) Fish Problem ;
(2) Submergence Problem;
(3) Failure Problem; and .
(4) Bomb Problem
They are described below:
(1) Fish Problem. On large rivers, in late summer season, fish move from
downstream to upstream to lay their eggs. These eggs are fertilised by male fish. The
old fish may get exhausted and the new born fish again move downstream. They, after
two to three years, return to their ancestral spawning place and may die after getting
exhausted, while the newborns move downstream. The cycle goes on for years.
The fish which move to their ancestral spawning place (upstream) are called
anadromous fish. Salmon· and Hilsa are typical examples of such a fish. These are
commercially valuable fish, and important industries are dependent on them.
When a dam barrier is constructed on a river; these fish can not move upstream to
--~lay. their eggs; because it is impossible for these fish to -overtop sucha barrier. But
surprisingly, even when they find a barrier in their path of advancement towards their
..ancestral spawning ground, these fish do not return to their downstream dwelling place
(i.e. sea). However, they go on fighting against the barrier, trying furiously to overtop
it, till they get exhausted and die down. This results in a serious large scale killing of
fish, causing great damage to fish industry and economy of the nations.
In the beginning, much attention was not paid to this problem; but a little later, it
was realised, and serious attempts were made to find out. solution to the problem.
888 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
Sometimes, fish were trapped on one side of the dam and passed on to the other side by
giant steel and plastic nets. An external arrangement called Fish Ladder was also
devised.
Fish Ladder. Just as river-going vessels can bypass a dam by using a navigation
lock, so a series of 'locks' enable the fish to get over the dam. A separate channel is
created, consisting of a series of little dams that form a row of pools, rising up over the
big dam to reservoir level. The salmon, entering the lowest rung of the ladder at the
base of the dam, could leap from pool to pool until they had crested the dam. Then, they
could continue on through the reservoir to the spawning grounds. The new born fish
called finger lings could later return to the sea (downstream) in the same fashion via the
ladder. A section, plan and photographic view of a fish ladder has already been shown
in the chapter on Weirs.
In the beginning, the fish ladders worked better in theory than in practice. The fish
seemed to prefer to mill ground in splashing water under spillway, instead of entering
the ladder. This difficulty was overcome by careful design that put the fish ladder in the
place where it was most likely to attract the fish. Another problem was that the slow
moving water was stranger to fish and they tended to collect in the lower pools without
going onward.
Millions and billions were spent into fish-ladder research. Improvements in design
made the fish ladder more attractive to fish, more like the rapids they were accustomed
to.
Fish ladders are not always practicable from engineering stand point. In such cases,
other steps have to be taken to protect the fish.
Meanwhile, other experiments are going forward to see if fish can be successfully
induced to spawn in waters other than their own ancestral spawning grounds. In the long
run, it may save millions of currency to construct fish hatcheries instead of fish-ladders.
There are many possible solutions to the problem of anadromous fish, and research is
being undertaken in different regions of the world to find out a better soiution to the
problem.
(2) Submergence Problem. Whenever a dam is constructed across a river to store
water on the upstream side, a large area gets submerged due to the rise in the water
levels. The entire area which gets submerged, forming a reservoir, has to be calculated
and acquired before a dam can be constructed. The owners of the land have to be
persuaded, adequately compensated, and well settled somewhere else, before, the work
can be taken up in hand. Hence it is necessary to investigate the probable damage caused
by this submergence.
(3) Failure Problem. We try ourbest to build dams to last as long as possible.
-- -Evefyperson-Wli0s-6ever bas-work:ea on -dam-
a dam -fiol:£s-t&at th-e will Tlve as
long as
the pyramids of Egypt. But many a times, the dam give way under the continued insistent
pressure of the water penned up behind them. This failure of the dam may be caused
either due to bad workmanship or due to faulty design or due to the occurrence of
unanticipated floods.
Luckily, these disasters have been comparatively rare in this century. Dams used to
give way easily in olden times, but due to engineering advancement in modern times,
their failure has been considerably reduced. ·
These huge structures are now properly designed, keeping in view the various forces
which they are going to face. Proper and rational design, good supervision and constant
vigil and watch during maintenance period ensures their safety and makes us fairly
confident of it. Bhakra Dam on Satluj River in India and Boulder Dam on Colorado
River in U.S.A. cannot fail in one attempt, h.ow furiously these rivers may try to move'
their foundations. We are fairly confident of this, but sometimes the confidence is rudely
and cruelly repaid with tragedies. .
Dams may sometimes fail due to excessive and unanticipated earthquakes. The
Koyna Dam in India was at the verge of failure in 1968 earthquake. Thanks to the efforts
of the Illiiian engineers who saved that dam by toiling hard day and night. A very .
confiden't dam called Vega de Tera Dam is Spain failed in January 1959. The people
were tucked in the town of Rivaldelago. The disaster caused was tremendous. Rival-
delago was flattened. Telephone poles were snapped like matchsticks. Within moments,
123 villages were drowned. Several hundred luckier ones were saved, but were rendered
homeless. This was a case where a dam had simply not been built strong enough to bear
the full weight of its intended reservoir. Heavy rains wrecked it. Faulty design and bad
engineering must be blamed.
Another important dam called The Malpasset Dam, a 200 feet high arch dam on
the Reyran River, was completed in 1954. This dam gave way in December 1956,
causing 421 persons to die in floods. Investigations revealed that the. dam had failed
because the foundation rock has shifted along a thin clay seam in the left abutment,
making the dam unstable and vulnerable to any serious stress.
We learnt from our mistakes;and several other dams of the same type, then under
constr.uction in Europe, were quickly resurveyed to find the possibility of such a geo1ogi-
cal formation. This was .very very small comfort to the relatives of those who died when
Malpasset failed; but at least, we should learn from our mistakes and there should be
no such repetitions.
- (4) The Bomb Problem. The dams create dangers in wais, especially in modern .
atomic age. One single atom bomb may cause the failure of Hoover Dani (Boulder Dam)
or Bhakra Dam. The resultant failure of such a dam will create catastrophes, but also,
it will get contaminated by radioactivity from which there could be no escape.
This is an important point which is generally stressed by opponents of big dams.
But the only answer to this argument is that it would not be advisable to deprive
ourselves of the benefits of big dams simply because they are hazards in war time. After
all, an atom bomb dropped in Calcutta, Delhi, or New York would also cause tremen-
dous damage and catastrophe, but this does not mean that we should not develop big
cities.
Atomic war is dangerous to every aspect of living and not only to the construction
of dams. We don't refuse riding in automobiles or ae~pl_~!1~~ b~C~l!~~ ~Lthf'._ f~~.r: __()f____ _
acCideniS. -cerrain--risFhas-io Iie-accepteC! if !'hire- is-to be progress.
So, without denying the very great damage that could be caused by atomic ex-
plosions at our dams, we must go on buildfo.g dams. We need them and we must devote
our energies to the cause of continued peace, so that bombs will never be able to fall.
We may also take more precautions, and anticraft guns and radars can be established at
and in the vicinity of such important works. The use of atomic energy for peaceful ·
purposes and a general feeling of brotherhood is the only possible way to reduce such
threats.
\
890 IRRIGAT~ON ENyINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
17. 4. Selection of the Type of Dam and Their Classifications

(1) Classification. Dams can be classified in various ways depending upon the
purpose of the classification.
(1) Classification According to the Material used for Dam Construction :
The dams classified according to the material used for construction are: Solid·
masonry gravity dams, Earthen ·dams, Rockfill dams, Hollow masonry gravity dams,
Timber dams, Steel dams, and R.C.C. Arch dams. They have already been explained in .
. a _previous _article.
(2) Classification According to Use
(i) Storage Dams. They are constructed in order to store water during the periods
of surplus water supply, to be used later during the periods of deficient supply. The
stored water may be used in different seasons and for different uses. They may be further
classified depending upon the specific use of this water, such as navigation, recreation,
water supply, fish, electricity, etc.
(il) Diversion Dams. These small dams are used to raise the river water level, in
order to feed an off-taking canal and or some other conveyance systems. They are very
useful as irrigation development works. A diversion dam i~_generally called a weir or
a barrage.
(iii) The Detention Dams. They detain food-waters temporarily so as to retard flood
runoff and thus minimise the bad effects of sudden flood.
Detention dams are sometimes constructed to trap sediment They are often called.
debris dams.
(3) Classification According to Hydraulic Designs
(i) Overflow Dams. They are designed to pass the surplus water over their crest.
They are often called Spillways. They should be made of materials which will not be
eroded by such discharges. . · ·
(ii) Non-overflow Dams. They are those which are not designed to be overtopped.
This type of design gives us wider choice of materials including earthfill and rockfill
dams. ·
Many a times, the overflow dam and the non-overflow dam are combined together
to form a composite single structure.
(iiz) Rigid Dams and Non-rigid Dams. Rigid dams are those which are constructed
of rigid materials like· masonry, concrete, steel, timber, etc.; while non-rigid dams are
constructed of earth and rock-fill. They have already been explained.
17'.5. Factors Governing the Selection of a Particular Type of Dam
. Whenever we decide to construct a dam at a particular place, the first baffling
i---c-problem-which-faces-us-,-is-to choose-thekind of the dam. Which type will be· the most-··
i suitable and most economical? Two, three kinds of dams may be technically feasible,
but only one of them will be the most economical. Various designs and their estimates
have to be .prepared before signalling one particular type. The various factors which
must be thoroughly considered before selecting one particular type are described below:
(1) Topography. Topography dictates the first choice of the type of dam. For
example:
(i) A narrow U-shaped valley, i.e. a narrow stream flowing between high rocky
walls, would suggest a concrete overflow dam.
DAMS IN GE~RAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR 891
(ii) A low, rol~ing plain country, would naturally suggest an earth fill dam with a
separate spillway. I
I
(iii) The a~ailability of a 'Spillway Site' is very important while selecting a par-
ticular kind of 1dam. ·
./
(iv) A narrow V-shaped valley indicates the choice of an arch dam. It is preferable
to have the top width of the valley less than one-fourth of its height. But a separate site
for the spillway must also be available.
(2) Geology and FoundationCoriditions.-The foundations have to carry weightof
the dam. The dam site must be thoroughly surveyed by geologists, so as to detect the
thickness of the foundation strata, presence of faults, fissured materials,, and their
permeability, slope, and slip, etc.
The various kinds of foundations generally encountered are discussed below:
(i) Solid Rock Founddtions. Solid rock foundations such as granite, gneiss, etc. have
a strong bearing power. They offer high resistance to erosion and percolation. Almost
every kind of dam can be built on such foundations. Sometimes, seams and fractures
are present in these rocks. They must be grouted and sealed properly.
(ii) Gravel Foundations. Coarse sands and gravels are unable to bear the weight of
high concrete gravity dams and are suitable for earthen and rock-fill dams. Low concrete
gravity dams up to a height of 15 m may also be suggested on such foundations.
These foundations have high permeability and, therefore, subjected to water per-
colation at high rates. Suitable cut-offs must be provided to avoid danger of undermin-
ing.
(iii) Silt and Fine Sand Foundations. They suggest the adoption of earth dams or
- very low gravity dams (upto height-ef:g mj.-A-reckfiH dam en such-a foundation is not
suitable. Seepage through such a foundation may be excessive. Settlement may also be
a problem; They must be properly designed to avoid such dangers. The protection of
foundations at the _downstr_eam toe from erosion must also be ensured.
(iv) Clay Foundations. Unconsolidated and high moisture clays are likely to cause
enonnous settlement of the dam. They are not fit for concrete gravity dams or for
rock-fill dams. They may be accepted for earthen dams, but that too, after special
treatment. (v) Non-uniform Foundations. At certain places, a uniform foundation of the
types described above may not be available. In such a case, a non-uniform foundation
of rock and soft material may have to be used if the dam is to be built. Such unsatisfac-
tory conditions have to be dealt with by special designs. However, every problem is an
individual problem and a solution has to be. found by experienced engineers. For ex-
____:_ample- -------------- -- - - ----- -
.c. - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - -----
- The Jawahar Sagar Dam in Rajasthan offered such a problem. A bed of clay
was encountered, between the base of the dam and solid rock foundation. It was not
economically feasible to remove this clay bed. The solution adopted was to anchor the
base of the dam to the foundations below, by means of prestressed cables.
(3) Availability of Materials. In order to achieve economy in the dam, the materials
\required for its construction must be available locally or at short distances froll1 the
construction site.
892 . IRRIGATION ENGINEERI1::1G AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
Sometimes, good soil is easily available, which naturally calls for an earthen dam.
If sand, cement and stone, etc., are easily available, one should naturally think of a
concrete gravity dam. If the material has to be transported from far off distances, then
_a hollow concrete dam (Buttress) is a better choice.
(4) Spillway Size and Location. Spillway, as defined earlier, di poses of the surphis
river discharge. The capacity of the spillway will depend on the magnitudes of the floods
to be by- passed. The spillway will, therefore, become much more important on streams
with large flood potential. On such r.iwrs; the spillway may become dominant structure,
and the type of dam may become the. secondary consideration.
The cost of constructing a separate, spilly/ay may be enormous or sometimes a
suitable separate site for a spillway may not be available. In such cases, combining the
spillway and the dam into one structure may be desirable, indicating the adoption of a
concrete overflow dam.
A_t certain places, where excavated material from a separate spillway channel may
be utilised in dam embankment, an earthfill dam may prove to be advantageous. Small
spillway requirement often favou~s the selections of earth fill or rockfill dams even in
.narrow dam sites.
The practice of building a concrete spillway on earth and rock embankments is
being discouraged. these days, because of their conservative design assumptions and the
vigil and watch that has\to be kept during their operations.
(5) Earthquake Zone. If the dam is to be situated in an earthquake zone, its design
must include the earthquake forces. Its safety should be ensured against the increased
stress induced by an earthquake of worst intensity. The type of structures best suited to
resist earthquak_e shocks without danger are earthen dams and concrete gravity dams.
(6) Height of the Dam. Earthen dams are usually not,provided.for h~ights more
than 30 m or so. Hence, for greater heights, gravity dams are generally preferred.
(7) .Other Considerations. Various other factors such as, the life of the dam, the
width of the roadway to be provided over the dam, problem of skilled labour, legal and
. aesthetic point must also be considered before a final decision is taken. Overall cost of
construction and maintenance and the funds available will finally decide the choice of
a particular kind of a dam at a particular place.
17 .6. Selection of Dam Site
The selection of a site for constructing a dam Width
should be governed by ~11'#;fo11owing factors: ---+--t---o t basin-+--+---
(1) Suitable foundations (as determined in
·- tbe-previOufluticl~}must-be-available.- : -
(2) For economy, the length of the dam
should be as small as possible, and for a given
height, it ~hould store the maximum volume of
water. It, therefore, follows, that the river valley
at the dam site should be narrow but should open
out upstream to provide a large basin for a reserc
voir. A general configuration of contours for a
suitable site is shown in Fig. 17.1. :- Fig. 17.1
"!"
l

(3) The general
bed level at dam site
. shoulg preferably be Top of dam
higher than that of the
river basin. This will
reduce the height of
the dam and will
facilitate the drainage
problem.
(4) A suitable site
for the spillway should
be available in the near
vicinity. If the
spiilway is to be com-
bined with the dam, Fig. 17.2
the width of the gorge should be such as to accommodate both. _
The best dam site is one, in which a narrow deep gorge is separated from the flank
by a hillock with its surface above the dam, as shown in Fig. 17. 2.
If such a site is available, the spillway can be located separately in the flank, and
the main valley spanned by an earthen or similar dam. Sometimes, the spillway and
concrete masonry dam may be compositely spanned in the main gorge, while the flanks
are in· earth at low cost.. ·
(5) Materials required for the construction should be easily available, either locally
or in the near vicinity, so that the cost of transporting them is as low as possible.
(6) The reservoir b?sin should be reasonably water-tight. The stored water should
not escape out through its side walls and bed. ·
(7) the value of land and property submerged by the proposed dam should be as
lowaspossible. -- -·- ---- ··---- ----
(8) The dam site should be easily accessible, so that it can be economically con-
nected to important towns and cities by rails, roads, etc.
(9) Site for establishing labour colonies and a .healthy environment should be
available in the near vicinity.
STORIES OF A FEW IMPORTANT DAMS

Before we take up the actual planning and design of concrete gravity dams and
earthen dams in subsequent chapters, let us narrate the stories of certain such important
dams. Thi~ will give us an idea as to what actually happens in the field and to what kind
of difficulties are encountered and· how they are overcome.
17.7. Hoover Dam
·-· -- - -------------··~-------- ------ -----·------
Hoover dam (Fig. 17.3) is a concrete gravity dam, constructed on the Colorado river
in California (U.S.A.). The construction of this dam was taken off the drawing boards
on January 26, 1892 when the Colorado River Commission presided by Mr. Harbert
Hoover discussed its construction in their first meeting. But the actual constructio~--of
this dam could start only in late 1930. The construction took about 2 years of non-stop
work, every minute of the hour, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year. On the day of
Christmas, the pouring of concrete was tremendous even under searing desert sun by
day and under floodlights at night.
Fig. 17.3. Photo view of Hoover Dam ..

Name Problem. The name of the Hoover Dam became a political issue. It was first
of all named as Boulder Dam. Later· when Herbert Hoover became the President of
America, its name was changed to Hoover Dam. In 1933, when the Democrats replaced
the Republicans, President Roosevelt changed this name again to Boulder Dam. It was
known as Boulder Dam for 14 years. When again in 1946, Republicans came to power,
the name was once again changed to Hoover Dam, which still exists today;--.: == ····==
Dimensions of the Dam. The original dimensions of the dam are given below in
F.P.S. units:
Height = 726 ft
Span = 1300 ft from rim to rim of the Canyon
Thickness at the base = 660 ft
Thickness at the top = 45 ft
Name of the reservoir formed at
the back of the dam =Lake Mead
Length of the reservoir = 115 miles.
Something about the river. This big dam straddles the Colorado river. The
.Colorado river rises in the State of Colorado, runs down through Utah and intg 1\.rjzon_a,,
then California, emptying finally into the Gulf of California in Mexico.
The Colorado is a river with muscles. It is. a very strong river - containing huge
amounts of silt and mud in it. It cuts numerous deep narrow canyons while it flows. The
mile deep walls of the Grand canyon proves the power of this river.
It is a young river and all such rivers have strong powers for forming deep narrow
gorges (i.e. canyons). They are the most turbulent, and the deepest digging. They are
the best sources of hydro~lectric power. Irrigation or navigation is not possible on this /
kind of rivers, unless, they are tamed. I
I
:
DAMS IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR ·-" 895
Attempts were made to tame.this river by constructing dikes or levees, but failed.
Spring floods of 1904 brought havoc. Another catastrophe occurred in 1916. Gila
River, a tributary of Colorado, flooded at a rate of about 5, 560 cubic metres/sec. The
town of Yuma in Arizona, where the Gila empties into the Colorado, was submerged to
a depth of 1.2 metres.
It was exti;emely desirable to tame this river. But how? A solution was dreamt of.
The idea of constructing a big dam was visualised by Arthur Davis. It was an ambitious
plan.
Planning for the Dam. A scheme was planned: A concretegravity dam, of about
700 to750 feet height was thought. A reservoir at the back of the dam could hold every
drop of water, the Colorado could send in any 2 years of steady flow. It was to be the
biggest man-made lake in the world. It was going to be a multipurpose dam, generating
about 6 billion Kilo watt-hours of electrical energy each year for the growing cities of
southern California. The reservoir would hold the flood waters, and the spillways would
release the required amounts of water to the downstream farmers.
Flood control, irrigation and electricity were the three main purposes of this project.
Supply of drinking water to 13 cities of California and creation of a recreational and
navigable lake reservoir were the additional advantages.
Selection of a suitable site. A thorough search was made for the spectacular gorges
of the Colorado, seeking the best possible site. They studied 70 such sites before
choosing 'Black canyon' on the border between Arizona and -Nevada, 48 km from the
city of Las Vegas (Nevada).
The preliminary survey of Black canyon took about 3 years. Here, the river flows
through cliffs 1000-2000 feet (300 m to 600 m) high. At the water line, the rock walls
were 350 feet (105 m) apart.
Engineers roamed in heat and sun, testing the rocks, drilling into it, to make sure
that it,could·stand·the burden of enormous weight of the concrete -iliaf woulobe laid
upon it. Their conclusion was that it could. They recommended that the giant dam be
built.
After the technical green-signal was obtained, some political issues such as to who
will be benefitted and up to what extent, were settled with a great difficulty. The rift
between the different States always persists in such huge projects.
Construction of the Dam. The reai work began in late 1930. Herbert Hoover was
the President of America at that time. He himself was an engineer. The work started
under his vigilance, Arthur Powell Davis, 70 years old and about to re!ire, saw his life
long dream fulfilled as he stood high above the Colorado and watched thousands of
workers working hard with picks and dynamite far below.
The dam site was very hot. It was not a congenial surroundings to work. But a dam
- -hQd--to--be--built.:_____ - -·--·- -·--- -----·--·--- - - - - -- --- -~:__ __ ----- --- -- -
First of all, a town was built to house the workers. A permanent city, now called
Boulder-city, was settled at an expenditure of about $70 million. This was spread in an
area of about 300 acres and could accommodate 5, 000 workers.
Whenever a dam is constructed, the water of the river is first of all to be diverted
so that the construction could start. This is called by engineers as 'to turn the river off.'
1.4 tunnels, each 56 feet wide and 4000 feet long were dug into the solid rock of the
--
~anyon walls. These bypass tunnels received the flow of the river and carried it down·
~-
t
to the downstream, to a point beyond the construction site. About 1 milli~m cubic feet
of rock had to be removed for building these four tunnels.
Then, the Coffer dam was built. A coffer dam is a temporary retaining embankment
·upstream of the site. Huge amounts of rock and earth was heaped up, forcing the river
into four bypass tunnels. The bed of the river was thus laid bare.
Workers then descenqed into this river bed to lay the foundations for the dam. Seven
million tons of concrete had to be laid. It was 660 feet thick at the base.
The dam curves upstream, so that the water load is held back in part by the walls
of the canyon. The completion of the dam took about 2 years of non-stop work.
After completion, the bypass tunnels were blocked up and the water started coming
and collecting against the dam. The lake formed on the upstream side was called Lake
mead. Electrical power houses, which are of the size of 20-storey sky-scrapers were
constructed. The lake, the power houses, the dam galleries etc. are open for visitors and
for inspection. It was a great achievement indeed.
· 17 .8. Bhakra Dam
Bhakra Dam is a concrete gravity dam. It is 740 feet (226 m) high, spanning the
V-shaped gorge in the lower Shivalik hills. The dam is 1700 ft long at the top and only
· 325 ft at the bottom. The thickness of the dam at foundations is 1320 ft and it tapers to
30 ft at the top where a road runs. Bhakra dam was the highest concrete gravity dam of
the world when built, thus surpassing the existing 726 ft (221 m) high Hoover dam. But
the highest concrete gravity dam of the world, at present, is Grand Dixence dam in
. Switzerland (284 m high). Bhakra dam is situated in Himachal Pradesh State of India
near a village use<;l to be called Bhakra. It has been constructed on Satluj river. Satluj
is a river coming from Himalayas. It is a perennial river but carries enormous water
during floods and rains.
Downstream and upstream. views of Bhakra dam are shown in Photo Fig. 17.4.
----- This dam has given tremendous prospedty tcdn&a and has given her'a'liigh name
in the \\'.Orld. The various functions .served by this dam are:
(i) Flood control (ii) Irrigation
·(iii) Electricity (iv) Fish development.
Bhakra Project is not a single Bhakra Dam but consists of the following:
(i) 740 ft high Bhakra Dam (ii) 95 ft high Nangal Dam
(iii) Nangal Hydel Channel (iv) Ganguwal and Kotta Power houses
(v) Bhakra Canal System.
Planning and Construction. The survey works for the construction of this multi-
purpose project started in 1919. From 1919 to 1930, the survey continued and various
sites were considered for various purposes. From 1932 to 1946, the work was inter-
_.-rupted,-andfinally in1946,arailway line was spread in this-area,and-thenthe"-actual-
construction started. ·
After selecting a suitable narrow canyon for the construction of Bhakra Dam, the
dam site was dewatered after the river was 'turned off'. Two diversion tunnels, one in
either abutment were constructed in order to carry the river water: Two coffer dams
enclosing the foundation area, were also constructed. Both the tunnels are 50 ft, in
finished diameter, half a mile long 'and are lined with 3.6 ft thick heavily reinforced
concrete. The work on these two tunnels was started in 1948 and was completed in 1953.
The total expenditure incurred on them was approximately Rs. 3.6 crores. .,
I
·I
I
'¢'""
Fig. 17.4 (a) Upstream view of Bhakra Dam.
• Fig. 17.4 (b) Downstream view of Bhakra Dam.
Fig. 17.4. Photoviews of Bhakra Dam.

'~
DAM.S IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR 897

After the construction of these tunnels, two earth (rolled) and rock coffer dams were
constructed to enclose the operation area of the dam site. The construction of 215 ft high
coffer dam began in 1956. The water was forced into the tunnels and taken downstream
beyond the construction point. The 15 ft high downstream coffer dam did not lei the
water come back in the pit.
The foundations of these rolled fill earthen dams or dikes were carried down to 60ft
and 70 ft below the river bed level. After the construction of coffer dams, the dewatering
of the area was expeditiously completed and the excavation of the river bed started. The
rock was blasted by an explosive. Desert-shovels were employed for loading the material
in special trucks having capacity of 914 cubic yards. The material was carried and
dumped at the dumping site. The total .excavation was of the order of 700 million cubic
yards. About one million cubic yard was excavated per day.
While the excavation was going on, a large constructional plant, capable of produc-
ing high quality concrete economically and efficiently was also installed. This required
a 4( long belt conveyor system, aggregate processing plant, cement handling plant,
cooling plant, batching and mixing plants, high steel Q:istles, revolving cranes and other
electricity operated cranes, etc. etc. It was an expensive, completely automised concrete
plant. It was capable of handling about 600 tons of concrete per hour.
Then, the actual concreting work of the dam started in November 1956. Huge
electric cranes including 6 cantilever-cranes and 2 stiff-legged-cranes were employed
for concreting of dam.
A very low heat cement was used in the construction of this dam. Because, when
cement sets, it produces a large amount of heat which is liable to cause cracks. in the
structure. So in order to avoid this cracking, steel pipes were embedded in the structure
and ice-cold water was circulated through them.
The first stage of the dam (390 ft.) was completed by 1959. Work in the 2nd stage
was interrupted by a flood in the diversion tunnel that drowned ten workers and damaged
the power house. The tunnel and plugging of the dam was completed in 1962.
Dimensions and other data about Bhakra Dam are given below:
Height of the dam = 740'
Length at the bottom = 325'
Length at the top = 1200'
Breadth or thickness at the bottom = 1320'
Breadth or thickness at the top = 30'
Concrete required for the dam = 55 lakh cubic yard
Electricity generated = 12 lakh Kilowatt
Name of the reservoir formed = Govind Sagar
______1:_e~g!~_9f_~e r~r\T_oir_ ______ ,= 90_ll!il_es __
Maximum depth =. 740'
Minimum depth = 300'
Total irrigation = 1 crore acre of area
Population of these villages = 30, 000
Total storage capacity = 8 million acre ft.
Catchment area = 22, 000 sq. miles
Live storage = 6.35 million acre ft.
No. of Inspection galleries = 46
"" '
Power liouses:lBere-are-twopower houses called (i) The Left Power House; and
(ii) The Right Power House. The left power house is more important and was first
constructed.
The left power house is a reinforced concrete structure. It is standing on a stone
consisting partly of clay stone and partly of sand stone. The foundation chosen were
adverse to .the geological conditions required for a good dam site. The permeability of
sand stone is high, and thus there was a. possibility of leakage and danger of undermining
of the foundations. It necessitated a heavily reinforced raft foundation. The left power
house buildingjs seven. storeyed _and its construction_ took abou.Uw_o Jo three years. It
required about 635, 000 cubic yards of concrete, about one million sq.ft. of ~inishing
work and 6, 000 tons of reinforced ste.eL
The machinery used in this power house is of cosmopolitan in nature. The turbines
were supplied by Japan, the generators and transformers by U.K., and over-head cranes
by Yogoslavia. ,
The local manufacture of 10-ft diameter penstocks, made out of 1.75" thick steel
plate was considered as a big engineering feat of the country in such a short period of
· independence. The left power house had costed nearly Rs. 10 crores. The work on right
power house was also completed afterwards ..
Problem of Wood Transport. Like all other perennial rivers of India, the River
Satluj has been the cheapest means of transporting wood from the Himalayan forests
down to the plains. But since the dam is very high above the river water level, it has
become impossible to use this river for this purpose.
·The problem is overcome by bringing logs of woods from Govind Sagar to Nangal
St
railway station by means of an aerial rope-way. This is about miles long. A wooden
log loom has been put across Govind Sagar to obstruct timber. From there, the timber
is taken by the inclined carriage way to the loading station on the upstream of the right
-side.- c -- "-;:: ----- ----. -- -- ---- ----- -- - ..------...·--- - -- -- c-- -
17.8.1. Nangal Dam. Nangal Dam is 95 ft high subsidiary dam, 8 miles down-
stream of Bhakra on Satfuj. It falls within the jurisdiction of Punjab State in India. The
length of the dam is 1, 000 ft. The object of this dam is to head up water of the river
Satluj and then divert it into the'canal off-taking from the left bank of the fiver. The
canal is called Nangal Rydel Canal, and is a 40 miles long concrete lined canal.
This dam has 29 strong gates ~of span 30 ft each. An enormous tunnel Galled the
Inspection gallery has been made in the river Satluj in the lower portion of this dam.
This was the first tunnel constructed by the Government under Bhakra Project Scheme.
In order to enter into this tunnel, one has to go 70 ft down. The tunnel goes across Satluj
River.
Bhakra Nangal Project is something tremendous, stupendous, something which
----shakes-up-and--thri-I-ls us-when-we -see it- It marks the India's-progress after her Inde- --
pendence. It is something which cannot be forgotten easily, if we see it once.
17.9. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
The multipurpose Nagarjuna Sagar dam is located across Krishna River, near Nan-
dikonda village in Nalgonda District (Andhra Pradesh). It is named after Buddhist
Savant, Acharya Nagarjuna, who lived at the spot about 2,000 years ago to fulfil a
mission.
T
I
I
I
DAMS IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR . 899
This Dam irrigates in Guntl.ir, Kurnool, Nellore, Nalgonda, Khamman and Krishna
Districts. Its irrigation Potential is about 35 Jakh acres of land and electrical potential
is 1 lakh kilowatt hours of firm power (guaranteed-power generation) and 4.6 lakh
kilowatt hours of seasonal power.
A photoview of this dam is shown in Fig. 17.5.
Salient Features of the Dam. The river gorge is blocked by a masonry dam 409 ft
(124.6 m) high above the deepest foundation level and 4756 ft long. The full reservoir
level is +590.0 ft above the mean sea level (M.S.L.). The most unique feature of this
dam is the adoption of Stone masonry for its construction, deviating fromthe traditional
concrete. The use of stone had resulted in a large saving and had created huge employ-
ment potential for a large labour force. Hence, Nagarjuna Sagar Project ranks first in
the man-power utilisation among the modern gigantic projects of its own kind in the
world. It was designed and executed entirely by Indian engineers. On either side of the
masonry dam, earth dams have been constructed for a length of about two miles, the
maximum height being ·85 ft. The spillway crest has been installed with 26 Radial gates
each of size 45'x44'. Other component-works of this mighty dam include 8 penstock
pipes on the left side, three Power sluices and 9 irrigation sluices on the right side, two
chute sluices and a diversion-cum-irrigation tunnel. Two canals-off-ta~e on either side
of the dam for irrigation. The expenditure on the project was of the order of Rs. 80
crores. The crest level of the dam is +605 ft and the crest level of spillway is +546 ft.
Various details of the -dam are given below: ·
(1) Location. Lat.= 16°34' North, Long.= 71°19' East, 1~ mile downstream of Nan-
dikonda village Miryalaguda Taluk, Nalgonda District, 90 miles from Hyderabad.
(2) States Covered. ANDHRA PRADESH
(3) Hydrology,·
(a) Water-shed area at dam site ... 83,087 sq. miles
/(b) Maximum! flood discharge (observed) ... 11.7 laKh cumecs.
(4) Reservoir
(a) Full Reservoir level ... + 590'.0
(b) Maximum water level ... + 594'.0
(c) Gross siorage capacity ... 9 .3 7 M.a.ft
(d) Net (live) storage capacity ... 5.51 M.a.ft
(e) No. of villages submerged ,.. 57
if> Population displaced ... 4,824 families
(5) Masonry dam
(a) Total length- - -..-.-4,-7.56 ft--·-·
(b) Spillway length ... 1545 ft
(c) Non-overflow length including power
dam ... 3,211 ft
(d) Height of dam (maximum) ... 409 ft
(e) Base width (maximum) ... 320 ft
if> Top width ... 28 ft
900 el IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
l
(g) Top level ... + 605'.0
(h) Top of crest in spillway ... + 546'.0
(i) Chute sluices 2 No. 10' x 25' provided in
blocks 25 and 51 with sill level elevation ... +450'.0
(j)8 No. of 16' diameter penstocks provided
one in each in blocks 16 to 23 with
central line in elevation ... +405'.0
-- ---- (k) 3 No. power sluices 15' x 38' provided
(two in block 71 and one in block 7'2)
with sill level at elevation ... + 479'.0
(/) Radial Crest Gates 26 No. 45' x 44', with
crest elevation ... + 546'.0
(m) Thickness of spillway pipes ... + 15'
(n) Nine No. sluices 10' x 15' are provided
for right canal head regulator with sill at
elevation ... +489'.0
(6) Quantities of Work
(a) Excavation for foundations ... + 42.07 M. cft

(b) Volume of masonry and concrete ... 198 M. cft
(c) Quantity of cement ... About 11 lakh tons
(d) Quantity of steel ... About 60,000 tpns
(7) Earth Dams
(a) Length of Left Earth Dam : .. 8,400ft
(b) Length of Right Earth Dam ... 2,800 ft
ll,200 ft
{c) Maximum height above foundation level ... 85ft
(d) Top width .;. 30 ft
(e) . Top level. ... 610'
(j) Excavation of foundation ... 9.2 M. cft
(g) Earthwork for embankment .... 88 M. cft
(8) Irrigation-cum-Diversion Tunnel (horse-shoe in Section)
- - - --~~---!-~~~.!~ ____-_-_. ___ -
... 2,590 ft
----- ·-------- - - - - - - --~
(b) Diameter ... 27 ft

(9) Power Plant
(a) Left side 8 No. of penstocks 16 ft.
diameter to'develop ... 31~.kh kW
(b) Right side 3 power sluices of size
15' x 38' to develop ... 0.6 lakh kW
(10) Man-Power ' ... 50,000
I~
!
Organisation. In the earlier years of construction, a Control Board was the-orverall
incharge of the Nagarjun Sagar Project including technical, financial and administration
aspects. The project was then located in the Andhra Pradesh and the Hyderabad States.
After the reorganisation of States, the project came entirely in Andhra Pradesh State.
The State Government assumed its full responsibility w.e.f. 1.8.1959. The Control Board
became an advisory Body to the State Government, whose advice is accepted as a matter
of convention.
The programme of construction of dam and canals was so adjusted that partial
benefits started accruing even from 1967. The reservoir was able to deliver water to first
crop of Krishna delta in time for raising substantial acreage in 2nd crop. Letting out
waters in the two canals was inaugurated, by Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister
of India, on 4.8.1967.
Rehabilitation. The man-made lake of Nagarjuna Sagar fully submerged lands of
52 villages and partially submerged that of 5 villages.
About 4,900 families were displaced and rehabilitated in 24 Rehabilitation centres.
Good facilities, liberal compensation and other amenities were provided to those who
b.ad to be uprouted.
Nagarjunakonda Excavations. As the Nagarjuna Sagar reservoir was to complete-
ly submerge the famous relics of Nagarjuna. Konda, which was the seat of Ikshwaku
Kings and one of the principal centres of Mahayana System of Buddhism, the whole
area was excavated by the Archeological Department of the Governmernt of _India. The
more important of the relics were located in a museum constructed for the purpose, on
the top of an adjoining hill. Practically, all the relics had been unearthed and shifted to
the museum. Expenditure to the extent of 12 lakh rupees was debited to the Project and
the balance was met by the Archeological department.
. PROBLEMS __
1. (a) What is meant by a "dam and a reservoir" ? What are the different meterials that are commonly
~sed for dam construction and what are their comparative advantages and disadvantages ?
(b) Discuss the geological and tropological features which affect the selection of the type of dam.
2. (a) What are 'arch' and 'buttress' dams ? Illustrate with sketches and mention site conditions
favourable for construction of such dams.
(b) Discuss the factors which are considered in the _selection of the site for a proposed dam. It is
ilSSumed that the type of the dam has already been selec.ted for the project.
3. (a) What useful purpose is served by a dam ? What are the illeffects of dam construction ?
(b) How do you classify dams according to:
(i) their use ;
(ii) their hydraulic designs ;
(iii) their materials of construction.
--- -{c:)-Discufftlfe'vatious factorswlfich·govern· the selection·of·a-J?articulartyp-e·of·dam fora-particular ----
project.
4. "Dams are the sources of sorrow and grief'. Debate the above statement giving points in favour
as well as against it.
5. Narrate briefly the story of construction of any major dam of India.
-18
Res(!rvoirs and Planning
for Dam Reservoirs
18.1. Definition and Types
When a barrier is constructed across some river in the form of a dam, water gets
stored on the upstream side of the bairier, forming a p_ool of water, generally called a
dam reservoir or an impounding reservoir ot a river reservoir.
The quality of water stored in such a reservoir is not much different from that of a
natural lake. The water so stored in a given reservoir during rainy season can be easily
used almost throughout the year, till the time of arrival of the next rainy season, to refill
the emptying reservoir again.
Depending upon the purpose served by a given reservoir, the reservoirs may be
broadly divided into the following three types.
(1) Storage or Conservation reservoirs ;
(2) Flood Control reservoirs ; and
(3) Multipurpose reservoirs.
The fourth type of a reservoir is a simple storage tank constructed within a city
water supply system, and is called a-Dist"f'ib«tion- resavoir ; and such a reservoir is
evidently not ·a river reservoir, but is a simple storage tank.
18.1.1. Storage or Conservation Reservoirs. A city water supply, irrigation water
supply, or a hydroelectric project drawing water directly from a river or a stream may
fail to satisfy the consumers demands during extremely low flows; while during high
flows, it may become difficult to carry out their operations due to devastating floods. A
storage or a conservation reservoir can retain such excess supplies during periods of
pe~k flows, rd can release them gradually during low flows as and when the nef!d
arises. _.
Incidentally, in addition to conserving water for later use, the storage of flood waters
may also reduce flood damage below the reservoir. Hence, a reservoir can be used for
co~trolling floods either solely or in addition to other purposes. In the former case, it is
----- --known-as-a-'Flood-Eontrol-ReservoirL0r--a--~ing-le--flur.pose~Elood_Contr.oJ _Re_s_e.r:_vQir';
and in the latter case, it is called a 'Multipurpose Reservoir'.
18.1.2. Flood Control Reservoirs. A flood control reservoir, generally called a
flood-mitigation reservoir, stores a portion of the hood flows in such a way as to
minimise the flood peaks at the areas to be protected downstream. To accomplish this,
the .entire inflow entering the reservoir is discharged till the outflow reaches the safe
capacity_ of the channel downstream. The inflow in excess of this rate is stored in the
902
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING ~OR DAM RESERVOIRS 903
reservoir, which is then gra~1\ally released, so as to recover the storage capacity for the
next flood.
The flood peaks at the dc)\vnstream of the reservoir are thus reduced by an amount
AB, as shown in Fig. 18.1. A flo~d control reservoir differs from a conservation reservoir
only in its need for a large sluic~way capacity to permit rapid drawdown before or after
a flood. '
.,.,
·~ A NhTURAL INFLOW HYDRO GRAPH AT DAM
B
WATER FILLED UP IN RESERVOIR
CON TROLLED OUT FLOW

=SAFE CHANNEL CAPACtTYON o/s
------11-TIME (DAYS)
(AB=REDUCTIONIN PEAK)
<':'.<:~: E:XCESS WATER STORED IN RE~,ERVOIR

WATER RELEASED FROM RESER 10JR TO
RECOVER. STORAGE CAPACfTY
Fig. 18.1.
Types of flood control reservoirs. There are two basic types of flood-mitigation
reservoirs; i.e. I
-(f)c-:c--Storage reservoirs or Detention basins ; and
(ii) Retarding basins or Retarding reservoirs.
A reservoir having gates and valves installation at its spillway and at its sluice
outlets is known as a storage reservoir; while on the other hand, a reservoir with
uncontrolled and ungated outlets is known as a retarding basin;
Functioning and Advantages of a Retarding Basin
A retarding basin is usually provided with an uncontrolled spillway and an uncon-
trolled orifice type sluiceways. The automatic regulation pf outflow, depending upon
•. . ~he availability of water, takes place from such a reservoir. The maximum discharging
I
~. capacity of such a reservoir should be equal to the maximum safe carrying capacity of
.· the channel downstream. As floods occur, the reservoir gets filled, and discharges
.-- through-sluicewaJ-S. As the -reservoir-elevation-increases,- the outflow-diseharge- in'---· -
1
creases. The water level goes on rising until the flood has subsided, and the inflow
I . becomes equal to or less than the outflow. After this, the water gets automatically
withdrawn from the reservoir until the stored water is completely discharged. The
advantages of a retarding basin over a gate controlled detention basin are:
(i) Cost of the gate installation is saved.
(ii) There are no gates and hence, the possibility of human error and negligence
in their operation is eliminated.
(iii) Since such a reservoir is not always filled, much of the land below the maxi- ·
mum reservoir level will be submerged only temporarily and occasionally, and
can be successfully used for agriculture, although no permanent habitation can
be allowed on this land.
Functioning and Advantages of a Storage Reservoir
A storage reservoir with gated spillway and gatt;d sluiceways, provides more
flexibility of operation, and thus gives us better control and increased usefulness of the
reservoir. Storage reservoirs are, therefore, preferred on large rivers, which require
better control; while retarding basins are preferred on small rivers. In storage reservoirs,
the flood crest downstream, can be better controlled and regutated properly, so as not
to cause their coincidence. This is the biggest advantage of such a reservoir and out-
weighs its disadvantages of being costly and involving risk of human error in installation
and operation of gates.
18.1.3. Multipurpose Reservoirs. A reservoir planned and constructed to serve
not only one purpose but various purposes t0gether is called a multipurpose reservoir.
Reservoir, designed for one purpose, incidentally serving other purposes, shall not .be
called a multipurpose reservoir, but will be called so, only if designed to serve those
purposes also in addition to its main purpose. Hence, a reservoir designed to protect the
downstream areas from floods and also to conserve water for water supply, irrigation,
industrial needs, hydroelectric purposes, etc. shall be called a multipurpose reservoir.
Bhakra dam and Nagarjun Sagar dam are the important multipupose projects of India.
18.1.4. Distribution Reservoirs. A distribution reservoir is a small storage reser-
voir constructed within a city water supply system. Such a reservoir can be filled by
pumping water at a certain rate and can be used to supply water even at rates higher
than the inflow rate during periods of maximum demands (called critical periods of
demand),. Such reservoirs are, therefore, helpfulin 12ermitti1:1gJl!e_ R.1.1n1p_s_9r the water
treatment plants to work at a uniform rate, and they store water during the hours of no
demand or less demand, and supply water from their 'storage' during the critical periods
of maximum demand.
In this chapter, we shall however, confine ourselves to the river reservoirs only.
18.2. Capacity-Elevation and Area-Elevation Curv.es of a Reservoir Site
Whatever be the size or use of a reservoir, the main function of a reservoir is to
store water and thus to stabilize the flow of water. Therefore, the most important
physical characteristic of a reservoir is nothing but its storage capacity. The capacity of
reservoirs on dam sites, is determined from the contour maps of the area. A topographic
survey of the dam site is carried out, and a contour map such as shown in Fig. ·1s.2 is
drawn. The area enclosed within each_ CO!J.!~ur ca~_~e mea~~~~ -~it?_~_i:_!~~~~~~er.
In fact, the general practice adopted for capacity computations is to actually survey
the site contours only at vertical distances of 5 m or so. The areas of the intervening
contours at smaller intervals of say 0.5 m or so, are then interpolated by taking the square
root of the surveyed contours, and to assume that the square root of the interpolated
ones; vary in exact proportion to their vertical distance apart. For example, suppose the
area of the reservoir at 200 m contour is A 1 hectares, and that at 205 m contour is Az
hectares; then
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 905
Fig. 18.2. A typical contour map of a dam site.
The area at 200.5 m contour is

2
200.5 - 200 ]
= [ ./A;+ 205 ~ 200 (..JA; -./A;)
2
= [./A;+ ~:~ (i4; - ./A;)] ... [18.1 (a)]

----------·- ---·----
Similarly, the area ai 201:0 m contour
2
201.0- 200 . ]
= [ ./A;+ 205 - 200 (..JA; - ./A;)
=[./A;+~:~ (..JA; -./A;)r ... [18.1 (b)]

Similarly, the area at 204.5 m contour

2
204.5 - 200 ' ]
= [ 1A; + 205 - 200 (~ -1A°;)
=[1A; + ~:~ (~ -1A°;)J ... [18.l (c)]

In this way, the areas can be computed at sufficiently low contour intervals (0.5 m),
which can be used to determine the incremental volumes (!l. S) stored between two
succ~~sive contours, by using the simple average method, i.e. by multiplying the average
of the two areas at the two elevations, by the elevation difference(!l. h). The summation
of these incremental volumes below any elevation, is the storage volume below that
level.
Instead of using the simple average formula, i.e.
a1 +a2
!l. S = - -- (!l. h), sometimes the formula
2
J
!l. S = Ll h [a 1 + a 2 + '1a 1a2 can also be used, where
3
a 1, a 2, ••• represent the areas at 0.5 m contour interval.
Prismoidal formula can also be used preferably where three consecutive sections
at equal height are taken. According to this,
!l.h[A 1 +4A2+A3]
!l.S=Storage=6 ... (18.2)
where A 1, A2 and A 3 are the areas of succeeding con-

tours, and !l. h is the vertical distance between
two alternate contours.
It thus becomes evident that the areas at different elevations (contours), as well as
the storag{at different elevations, can be-mathematically worked- out, and both-plotted
on a graph paper, to obtain Area-Elevation curve, and Storage-Elevation curve
(Capacity-Ele11ation curve), respectively, as shown in Fig. 18.3.
- Water spread area in m.sq.m

so 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 s 0
1 260 1---
r--..__ I - - J...-
.,
!
-;
250
E 240
..E
-·
--
t-_
~
><
1---
........
- I---
Area-elevation curve
_L--- 1 - -
_,... ~
""
/ o r Water spread area curve
g 230
---- --:;-·- -7 2S::; Capaci-ty-ele.vationcur.ve _ ··~--- -- - - -- --·-- ··--- - - ----- ---~-
> or Capacity curve

~ 220
210
I \ \
200
0 .25 50 75 100 125 150 17'=> 200 225 250 275 300 '325 350
Capacity in mcm - - -
Fig. 18.3. Area elevation curve and Capacity elevation curve.

r '~
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESbRVOIRS 907

Another method for computing rapacity may be the use of integration technique.
lnfact, the area-elevation curve, wb.::n integrated, will yield nothing but the capacity-
elevation curve. Hence the surveyed areas at large-intervals; may be plotted on a simple
graph paper, and a smooth curve, i.e. area-elevation curve, is first of all drawn. The
equation of this curve is now obtained by statistical methods, which can be integrated
to obtain the equation of the capacity-elevation curve, as follows:
The equation of the area-elevation curve, will generally be of the form:
A= a+ p. h+y. h2 + ... Tl. hn-I ... (18.3)
where A represents the area at any elevation h; and ·
a, p, y... Tl are all constants.
This equation can be determined and ihen integrated to obtain the storage (capacity),
as explained below:
Let y be the height of the water surface in the reservoir above any assumed datuni,
over which the storage/capacity is to be worked out.
Let Ay represents symbolically the area of the contour at this height. Then, assume
that the equation of area-elevation curve is given by :
A
A y=a+l-'.y+y.y 2
+ ... Tl·Yn-1 ... (18.3 a)
where a, p, y, ... , Tl are all constants.
From the actual survey, or from the points falling on the area-elevation curve, the
area of any required number of contours (n) are known.
Let them be A 0, A 1, A2..... corresponding to the known level values, i.e., heights
0, y 1, Y2· ... above the datum .
. $ubstituting these values in equation (18.3 a), we get
A 0 =a
Ai= a+ p. YI+ y. Y1 + ... Tl. Yin- I
2
A2 = ci + p· Y2 + Y· Y22 + .. ·Tl · Y2n - I

2
A3 =a+ p · Y3 + Y· Y3 + ... Tl· Y3n-I
. Thus, we get n simultaneous equations to determine n number of constants

(a, p, y, ... , Tl) Hence, the equation of the area-elevation curve, i.e.
Ay =a+ p.y + y.y2 + ... Tl.~-I becomes defined, with a, p, y, ... Tl all known.
This equation can now be integrated between the limits 0 to y,
y=y y=y
fAy · ay;, f (a+ p.y +Y,y +·~: .1f.j'- )ay

2 1
y=O y=O
or Sy= storage (capacity) between 0 toy
y=y
= J (a+ p.y + y.y2 + ...Tl.yn-1) dy
y=O
908 .IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
=[cx.y + p. i2 + \'Y. i3 + ... Tl . ~]·

n +,K
where K is a constant, which obviously is the reser-
voir capacity at datum.
The use of this method can be best understood by solving a numerical example.
·Example 18.1. A contour survey of a reservoir site gives the following data:
Contour value Area
At 200 m co11tour 6.0 hectares
- At 210 m contour . 18:1 hectares
At 220 m contour 34.0 hectares
The capacity of the reservoir upto 200 m elevation is found to. be 14.1 ha. m.
Determine the general equation for the area-elevation curve and capacity-elevation
curve. Also determine the reservoir capacity at RL 225 m.
Solution. Use equation (18.3 a), wherein y is the height above RL 200 m, as
Ay = ex + p . y + y . y2
Now substituting the given values, we have
A 0 = 6.0hectares
6.0 = ex+ P(Oft 'Y (0) = ex
or ex= 6.0 ... (i)
Also A 1 = 18.1 hectares, at y 1 =10 m (given)
18.1 =ex+ P. (10) +y. (10)2
or 18.1=6.0+ 10p + lOOy
or 12.1=1op + lOOy
or p + 10 "(= 1.21 ...(ii)
Also A 2 = 34.0 hectares at y2 = 20 m (given)
... 34.o =a+ ~ (20) + "{ (20) 2= 6.0 + 20p + 400y .•
.or 20p + 400"( = 28.0 .
p + 20y= 1.4 ...(iiz)
Solving (ii) and (iiz), we get
p + lOy= 1.21
p + 20y= 1.40.
or lOy=0.19 or · y=0.019
.. · P+ 0.19 = I.2i or p=1.02
Hence, the equation of area-elevation curve is given by
Ay = 6.0 + 1.02y + 0.019y2 Ans.
Integrating this equation, we get
- - - - - - · · - · - - - - c:_ .: ..... C .... --·"--C - · · . _ . - . ·-··· -· . . _ -. -
2 3
Sy=6.0y+ l.02f +0.019f +K
.· The constant K is obviously the reservoir capacity (storage) upto RL 200.0 m, which
is given to be 14.1 ha. m.
.. Sy.= 6.0y + 0.51y2 + 0.0063y3 + 14.1
Hence, the capacity-elevation curve is given by
Sy= 0.0063y3 + 0.51y2 + 6.0y + 14.1 Ans
To determine the capacity at RL 225 m, we have to substitute
y = 225 - 200 = 25 m in the above eqn. to obtain the requisite capacity in ha.m., i.e.
Required capacity at RL 225 m
= 0.0063 (25) 3 + 0.51 (25) 2 + 6.0 x 25 + 14.1
= 98.96+ 318.75 + 150.0+ 14.1=581.Srl~a.m. Ans.
Conclusions. It can thus be seen that the capacity of a reservoir by this method can
be determined by surveying only a few contours. It is also found that the method does
not give more than 3% error, when it is cross-checked with the capacity worked out by
surveying large number of contours. This error is not considered much, in the light of
the fact that the areas of contours are themselves not very precise figures.
Sometimes, storage capacity may be expressed as a single term function of y, such as
Sy= K.y" where Kand n are constants.
Infact, in practical life, no one E
bothers about the equations, and only <=
curves, as shown in Fig. 18.3 are _::
drawn. The required capacity at any g
elevation is read out, from such a :
curve. ...=1
It may also be pointed out here that
the best capacity curve for a reservoir is 0 - 0
<::
u
the one in which the rise to the straight Good
line is the quickest. It results ·from a cup-
shaped catchment, with gentle lon-
gitudinal slope. Fig. 18.4 shows the good Reservoir capacity ,ha.m
and bad capacity curves. Fig. 18.4. Good and Bad capacity curves for a reservoir
J8.3. Storage Zones of a Reservoir

These zones are defined w.r. to Fig. 18.5.
SPILL~AY CREST
SURCHARGE SlORAGE
POOL LE~EL DURING DESIGN FLOOD
OR.MAX.RESERVOJR ·L,EVEL
Fig. 18.5. Storage zones of a reservoir.

18.3.1. Norltlal Pool Level or Maximuin Conservation Level. It is the maxi-
mum elevation to which the reservoir water surface will rise during normal operating
conditions. (See Fig. 18.5). It is equivalent to the elevation of the spillway crest or the
top of the spillway gates, for most of the cases. · '
I
910 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND.HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
18.3.2. Minimum Pool Level. The lowest water surface elevation, which has to be
.kept under normal operating conditions in a reservoir, is called the minimum pool level
,(See Fig. 18.5). This level may be fixed by the elevation of the lowest outlet in the dam
or may be guided by the minimum head required for efficient functioning of turbines.
18.3.3. Useful and Dead Storage. The volume of water stored in a reservoir between
the minimum pool and normal pool levels is called the usefal storage. Water stored in the
reservoir below the minimum pool level is known as the Dead Storage, and it is not of much
, use in the operation of the reservoirs. The useful storage may be subdivided into conserva-
tion storage and flood-mitigation storage, in a multipurpose reservoir.
18.3.4. Maximum Pool Level or Full Reservoir Level. During high floods,
water is discharged over the spillway, but will cause the water level to rise in the
reservoir above the normal pool level. The maximum level to which the water rises
during the worst design flood is known as the maximum pool level.
18.3.5. Surcharge Storage. The volume of water stored between the normal pool
level and the maximum pool level is called surcharge storage. Surcharge storage is an
uncontrolled storage, in the sense that it exists only till the flood is in progress and
cannot be retained for later use.
18.3.6. Bank Storage. When the reservoir is filled up, certain amount of water
seeps into the permeable reservoir banks. This water comes out as soon as the reservoir
gets depleted. This volume of water is known as the bank storage, and may amount to
several percent of the reservoir volume depending upon the geological formations. The
bank storage effectively increases the capacity of the reservoir above that indicated by
the elevation capacity curve of the reservoir.
18.3.7. Valley Storage. Even before a dam is constructed, certain variable amount
'i of water is stored in the stream channel, called valley storage. After the reservoir is
I
ll!-
,,
formed, the storage increases, and the actual net increase in the storage is equal to the
storage capacity of the reservoir minus the natural valley storage. The valley storage
thus reduces the effective storage capacity of a reservoir. It is not of much importance
in conservation reservoirs, but the available storage for flood mitigation is reduced, as
given by the following relation:
Effective storage for flood mitigation
= Useful Storage + Surcharge Storage - Valley
Storage corresponding to the rate of inflow in the
reservoir.
DESIGNING RESERVOIR CAPACITY

18.4. Catchment Yield and Reservoir Yield
·~----- -- -Loiig-Taiige-runoff-ffoffi-a-catClllnelltls:-·kriOW~ ~s the yielCf-Of the catchriienT.___
Generally, a period of one year is considered for determining the yield value. The total
yearly runoff, expressed as the volume of water entering/passing the outlet point of the
is
catchment, is thus known as the catchment yield, and expressed in M m 3 or M.ha.m.
The annual yield of the catchment upto the site of a reservoir, located at the given
point along a river, will thus indicate the quantum of water that will annually enter the
reservoir, and will thus help in designing the capacity of the reservoir. This will also
help to fix the outflows from the reservoir, since the outflows are dependent upon the
inflows and the reservoir losses.
,,,,
The amount of water that can be drawn from a reservoir, in any specified time
interval, called the reservoir yield, naturally depends upon the inflow into the reservoir
and the reservoir losses, consisting of reservoir leakage and reservoir evaporation.
The annual inflow to the reservoir, i.e. the catchment yield, is represented by the
mass curve of inflow; whereas, the outflow from the reservoir, called the reservoir yield,
is represented by the mass demand line or the mass curve of outflow. Both these curves
decide the reservoir capacity, provided the reservoir losses are ignored or separately
accounted.
The inflows to the reservoir are however, quite susceptible of variation in different
years, and may therefore vary throughout the prospective life of the reservoir. The past
available data of rainfall or runoff in the catchment is therefore used to work out the
optimum value of the catchment yield. Say for example, in the past available records of
say 35 years, the minimum yield from the catchment in the worst rainfall year may be
as low as say 100 M~ha.m; whereas, the maximum yield in the best rainfall year may
be as high as say 200 M.ha.m. The question which then arises would be as to whether
the reservoir capacity should correspond to 100 M. ha.m yield or 200 M. ha.m yield. If
the reservoir capacity is provided corresponding to 100 M. ha.m yield, then eventually
the reservoir will be filled up every year with a dependability of 100%; but if the
capacity is provided corresponding to 200 M.ha.m yield, then eventually the reservoir
will be filled up only in the best rainfall year (i.e. once in 35 years) with a dependability
. 1
of.about x 100:::: 3%.
35
In order to obtain a sweet agreement, a via media is generally adopted and an
intermediate dependability percentage value (p), such as 50% to 75%, •may be used to
compute the dependable yield or the design yield. The yield which corresponds to the
worst or the most critical year on record is however, called the firm yield or the safe
yield. Water available in excess of the firm yield during years of higher inflows, is
designated as the secondary yield. Hydropower may be developed from such secondary
water, and sold to the industries 'on and when available basis'. The power commitments
to domestic consumers must, however, be based on the firm basis, and should not exceed
the power which can be produced with the firm yield_, unless. thermal power is also
available to support the hydroelectric power. ·· · ··· · ·
The arithmetic average of the firm yield and the secondary yield is called the
average yield.
18.4.1. Computing the Design or the Dependable Catchment Yield. The de-
pendable yield, corresponding to a given dependability percentage p, is detennined from
the past available data of the last 35 years or so. The yearly rainfall data of the reservoir
catchment is generally used for this purpose, since such long runoff data is .rarely
available . The rainfall data of the past years is therefore used to work out the dependable
rainfall value corresponding to the given dependability percentage p. This dependable
rainfall value is then converted into the dependable runoff value by using the available
empirical formulas connecting the yearly rainfall with the yearly runoff.
It is, however, an adopted practice in Irrigation Departments to plan the reservoir
project by- computing the dependable yield .from the rainfall data, but to start river
gauging as soon as the site for the reservoir is decided, and then correlate the rainfall-
runoff observations to verify the correctness of the assumed empirical relation between
the rainfall and the runoff. Sometimes, on the basis of such observations, the initially
assumed yield value,m~y have to be revised.
* This percentage wiU depend upon the risk which can be absorbed for the proposed use of water. Say for
example, city water supply projects can absorb lesser risk as compared to the irrigation projects, and hence
should consider higher .dependability percentage value.
The procedure which is adopted to compute the dependable rainfall value for a given
dependability percentage p is explained below, and has been further used in solving
example 18.2.
(i) The available rainfall data of the past N years is first of all arranged in the
descending order of magnitude.
(ii) The order number m, given by the equation
m -N.L
- 100
... (18.4)
is then computed, and rainfall value corresponding to this order number in the tabulated
data will represent the required dependable rainfall value.
(iii) If the computed value of mis a fraction, then the arithmetic mean of the rainfall
values corresponding to whole number m values above and below this fraction value is
taken as the dependable rainfall value.
This method of computing the rainfall value of the given dependability (such as
50%, 75%, etc.) will become more clear when we solve example 18.2. The rainfall va.lue
of given dependability can finally be converted into the dependable yield, by using
empirical methods, discussed ih article 18.4.1.1.
The dependable yield of a given dependability (p per cent) can also be determined
from the stream gauging, by computing the annual yields, from the observed discharges,
and arranging the annual yield values in descending order to determine order numbers
(instead of rainfall) as exhibited in solved example 18.3.
Example 18.2. The yearly rainfall data for the catchment of a proposed reservoir
site for 35 years is given in Table 18.1. Compute from this data, the values of dependable
rainfalls for 60% and 75% dependability percentage.
Table 18.1
.. ...
·-
Rainfall Rainfall
Year Year
in cm in cm
1956 98 1974 88
1957 100 1975 94
1958 101 1976 107
1959 99 1977 llO
1960 85 1978 208
1961 112 1979 114
1962 116 1980 104
1963 .· 78 1981 120
1964 .. 160 .. 1982 108
1965 66 1983 102
1966 184 1984 80
-- -- --- -- ··· 1967 . - -90 .- 109 .
--- --··- 1985 - .. ·--·
1968 76 1986 122

1969 118 1987 ll5
1970 86 1988 140
1971 9.2 1989 138
t<.172 96 1990 60
1973, 93
. Solution. The given data of table 18. l is arranged in descending order, mentioning
serial number (order number m) in front of each, as shown in Table 18.2.
Table 18.2
S.No.i.e Rainfall in S.No.i.e. Rainfall in
order number desecending order order number descending order
(m) in cm Im> in cm
I 208 19 101
2 184 20 100
3 160 21 99
4 140 22 98
5 138 23 96
6 122 24 94
7 120 -_ 25 93 -
8 118 26 92
9 116 27 90
10 115 28 88
11 114 29 86.
12 112 30 85
13 110 31 80
14 109 32 78 ..
15 108 33 76
16 107 34 66
17 104 35 60
18 102
Now, using equation (18.4), we compute the order number (m) for the given de-
. pendability percentage p = 60%, as:
·m - N _p__ _ 35 x
60 - 21
- . 100 - . 100 -
The rainfall value tabulated above in table 18.2 at order no.21 is 99 cm; and hence
the required dependable rainfall= 99cm. :. P60 % = 99 cm Ans.
Similarly, for dependability p = 75%, we calculate the order no. (m)
=N · ~= 35 x
7
1 0
= 26.25. g
---···Since i"eqd: cYfderno.-isnoran-integer;-the m·ean·value ofrainfalhorresporrding to
order rio. 26 and 27 will be taken as the value of p of 75% dependability .
. 92+90 . .
·· P1s% = · = 91 cm Ans.
2
Example 18.3. The daily flows iri a river for three consecutive years are given in
the table by class intervalalongwith the number of days the flow belonged to this class.
What are the 50% and 75%. dependable flows (annual and daily) for the river ?
· Table 18 3
Year 1981 Year 1982 Year 1983
Daily mean No. of days the flow No. of days the flow No. of days the flow
S.No. discharge m3Is belonged to the given · equalled the class equalled the range
(ran"e) - range (class interval) range of col (2) given in col (2)
(J) 12) 13) (4) 15)
----- - - 1 - ._ - --- . JOQ~9.Q) ----- --· --~--
0--------·--·--
·- .... - .. 6 . - ---··- -- .JO -
"16
·-
2 90-80.1 16 19
3 80-70.1 27 25 38
4 70-60.l 21 60 67
5 60-50.l 43 51 58
6 50~40.l 59 38 38
7 40-30.l 64 29 70
8 30-20.1 22 48 29 I
9 20-10.l 59 63 26
JO 10-nerdif1ible 54 26 13
(Engg. Services, 2002)
Solution. With the given daily flows, we will calculate the annual yields for the
given 3 years of records, as computed in Table 18.4. Since daily discharge figs. are given
in range (interval), mid value of range (interval) can be assumed to be the flow dis-
charge, which when multiplied by no. of days, will give yield during those days.
Summation of yield values over 365 days will give annual yield, as shown in Table 18.4,
which otherwise is self explanatory.
Table 18.4
Year 1981 Year 1982 Year 1983
Yield
Daiiymean No. ofdays (Mm3) No. <fdays No.of Yield
Mean Yield
for which = (3) x (4) for which 3 days for 3
discharge value of (Mm ) = (Mm )
thejlow flow which flow
S.No. (range) (m 3Is) daily 86400 0.0864x ·= 0.0864
eqLl{1l/ed to x - - equalled to equaled to
in descending discharge 106 col(3)x
that given that ofcol that of col xcol(3)
order range
in col (3) [(3) x (4) (3) col (6) (3) xcol (8)
x0.0864]
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9)
I 100-90.I 95.05 0 0 6 49.25 10 82.08
2 90-80. I 85.05 16 117.50 19 139.54 16 117.50
3 80-70.l 75.05 27 174.96 25 162.00 38 . 246.24
4 70-60.1 65.05 21 117.94 60 336.96 67 376.27
5 60-50.1 55.05 43 204.34 51 242.35 58 275.62
6 50-40.1 45.05 59 229.39 38 147.77 38 147.74
7 40-30.1 35.05 64 193.54 29 87.70 70 211.68
8 30-20.1 25.05 22 47.52 48 103.68 29 62.64
9 20-10.I 15.05 59 74j4 63 81.65 26 33.70
IO IO-Negligible 5.05 54 23.33 . . 26_ 11.23 13 5.62
L 365 U-82.8Ji <" "3'65 1361.98 365 1559.09
The river yield for 3 year is thus, calculated by summation of col (5), (7) & (9). Let
_these~yields be.a:r:ranged-in descending order. .. __
Year Annual yield (M m3) Order No. (m)
1983 1559.09 1
1982 1361.98 2
1981 1182.86 3
N=3
Order No. (m) for p% dependability
=_p__XN ... (Eqn. 18.4)
100
(1) Order No for 75% dependability = ~ x 3 = 2.25.
JOO
Since order No. of 2.25 is not an integer, the mean value of yield corresponding to
S. NO. 2 and 3 will be taken as yield for 75% dependability, given as
-·--· - - ----==-[-l361~98'·'F1182.86]=1.f12.42M-;,i-·. ·- -
2 '"
Hence, Annual flow with 75% dependability= 1272.42M m3 Ans.
:; Daily flow (discharge) with 75% dependability
6
1272.42 x 10 3; __ 3 3; A
= 365 x 86400 m s 40 ·34 m s ns.
(iz) Order No. for 50% dependability = ~ x N =

5
1 0
i
x 3 = 1.5
Since order No. of 1.5 is not an integer, the mean value of yield corresponding to
order No. 1 and 2 shall be taken as the yield of 50%. Dependability, given as :
= 1559.09; 1361.98= 1460 .54 M m3
Hence, Annual flow with 50% dependability = 1460.54 M m 3 Ans.

:. Daily flow (discharge) with 50% dependability
x 106 3
= 1460.54
x
365 86400
3
ni·ls = 46.31 m Is Ans.
18.4.1.1. Converting the dependa6le rairifaffvalue into the dependable yield

value. Certain empirical relations are available for converting the yearly rainfall value
for the given catchment into the yearly runoff value expected from that catchment. Some
of these formulas are:
1. Binnie's percentages; 2. Strange's tables;
3. Barlow's tables; 4. Lacey's formula;
5. Inglis formula; and 6. Khosla '.s formula.
These empirical relations are briefly discussed below:
(1) Binnie's percentages. The first effort ever made in India to connect the long
range rainfall and the runoff (yield), was from Sir Alexander Binnie: He made observa-
tions on two rivers in the central provinces, and worked out certain percentages to
connect the monthly rainfall with the monthly yield for the entire monsoon period from
June to October. These percentages have been further adjusted by Mr. Garret, and are
given in table 18.5. From the values given in table 18.5, the total monsoon rainfall Vs
percentage of rainfall that becomes runoff are plotted in Fig. l 8.6(a).
Table 18.5. Binnie's Monsoon Yield Percentages (as adjusted by Garret)
... ·---- ----· - ·---- Monsoon Yield ...
Monsoq~ Rainfall (P) in
.
Monsoon Yield Monsoon Rainfall (P) in
cm percentage cm percentage
25 7.0 107.5 39.5
30 9.0 110.0 40.3
35 11.0 ·112.5 41.0
40 13.0 115.0 41.7
45 15.0 117.5. 42.4
50 17.0 1.20.0 43.1
55 19.0 122.5 43.7
60 21.0 125.0 44.4
65 23.0 127.5 45.0
70 25.0 13(};0 45.6
-
75 --- - ...
·no· ----- --·-l32o5---c - -·-~~
--·-------·· .-46;2 ........... --- --
80 29.0 135.0 46.8
85 31.0 137.5 47.3
90 33.0 140.0 47.9
95 35.0 142.5 4:8.4
100 37.0 145.0 49.0
102.5 37.9 147.5 49.5
105.0 38.7 150.0 50.0
Ii
60
+-
a
..c
I 50
i!
a
---c lO
a
cc.'+- .
'+-
I ---·o 9c
::i
g,o:: 30
c
+- V1
c c.>
. c.>
E 20 --------
...
u 0
CJ u
0.. _o
Cl>
V1
-CJ
J0
c
c
co
0 25 50
75 10 0 125 150
Toto! Monsoon Ra.info!! in tm -
Fig. 18.6(a). Binnie's Monsoon Rainfall-runoff Curve.
(2) Strange's percentages and tables. Mr. W.L. Strange carried out investigations on
catchments in Bombay Presidency, and worked out percentages for converting monsoon
rainfall into monsoon yield. He even worked out such percentages for converting daily rainfalls
into daily runoffs. It was an improvement over Binnie'.s tables, since he divided the catchments
into three categories to account for the general characteristics of the catchment:S. The catch-
ments prone to producing higher yields, such as those with more -payed areas, etc. were
categorised as good catchments; and those prone to producing low yields were termed as bad
catehmentsc-:'fhe·intermecliate-:typeScwere·called-average catchments. Different runoff percent~
ages were given for different types of catchments for different values of rainfalls, as shown in
table I 8.6(a). These values have also been drawn in the shape of curves, as shown inFig. 18.6(b ).
Table 18.6 Values of Strange's Run off Percentages
Monsoon Runoff Percentages for Monsoon· Runoff Percentages for caiChmerits ·
Rainfall catchments desirmated as Rainfall - desir>rii:ited iis. · -
in cm Good Avera<>e Bad in cm Good · Averarie. ·-·:Bad
25.0 4.3 3.2 2.l 107:5 40.9 .,-.. --._. }~:~ :· 20.4
..
30.0 .6.2 4.6 3.i - ... 110;0 Ai:p_ .. 21.0
35.0 8.3 6.2 4.1 112:5 ,ffi . 32.3 21.5
40.0 ..
10.5 7.8 5.2
'·"·
us:o 44.3 33.2 22.1
45.0 12.8 9.6 •. 6:4 117.5 45.4 34.0 23.2
50.0 15,0 ·11:3 7.5 120.0 46.5 34.8 23.8
55:0 17.3 12.9 8.6 122.5 47.6 35.7 23.8
60.0 - - - - - · 18.5
-----
____ ].i:L.__:_ ---~---9."-l-:.. .:. ,_J25.Q_ -- --"--48:8.. ----- 36.6.. -- 24.4---
65.0 .. 21.8 16.3 10.9 127.5 49.9 37.4 24.9
70.0 24.0 18.0 12.0 130.0 51.0. 38.2 25.5
75.0 26.3 19.7 13.l 132.5 52.0 39.0 26.0
80.0 28.5 21.3 14.2 135.0 53.3 39.9 26.6
85.0 30.8 23.1 15.4 137.5 54.4 40.8 27.2
90:0 33.0 24.7 16.5 140.0 55.5 41.6 27.7
95.0 35.3 26.4 ri.6 .• 142.5 56.6 42.4 28.3
100.0 37.5 28.1 18.7 145.0 5'7.8 43.3 28.9
102.5 38.5 28.9 19.3 147.5 58.9 44.1 29.4
105.0 39.5 29.8 19:9 150.0. 60:0 45.0 ·- 30.0
T
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 917.

60 /
,.
./
/
/
/
50
v'?";;
·r
.
. . /
() /
<:::P,,
0 /.
. / ..·>
.
. <.°'~c:;;,, >~.c,~--
.
c.,~/ q,'<C'!
~
/
/
J
.
/s:~
J/
''?'. .
~1
06
... -·
.
~i.--_........ ·
~
J/ / •.;,.lO....--- .
.. /
j
·,,"' / ...'
s"'J~---
....... ..
/
./· ;-
.,,.
/.
"'//
/
·' ~ .... _, ':
v·
~~
25 50 75 100 125 150

Total Monsoon Rainfall in cm -
Fig. l 8.6(b). Strange's monsoon Rainfall-Runoff curves.
(3) Barlow's tables. Mr. T.G. Barlow, the first Chief engineer of Hydro-Electric
Survey of India, carried out extensive investigations on catchments mostly under 130
square km in U.P. State of India. On the basis of his investigations, he divided catch-
ments into five classes and assigned different percentages of rainfall that become runoff
(over long periods) for each class of catchment, as indicated in table 18.7.
Table 18.7, Values of Barlow's Runoff Percentage~
Class of Runoffpercentages
S.No. · Description of the catchment
catchment (K)
I. A Flat, cultivated, adsorbent soils JO
2. B Flat, partly cultivated stiff soils .. 15
3. c Average catchment 20
4. D Hills and plains with little cultivation 25
5: E Very )lilly and steep catchment with little. or nci cultivation 33
The above values of runoff percentages are for the average type of monsoons, and
are to be modified by the application of the following coefficients (Table 18.8) according
to the nature of the season.
Table 18.8. Values of Barlow's coefficient to be
.. multiplied_withcK. "'.alues,of_table_J8.J_
to obtain True Runoff Percentages
Class of catchment
S.No. Nature of season
A B c D E
I. Light rain, no heavy down pour 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8
2. Average or varying rainfall, no 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
continuous down pour I
3. Continuous down pour 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8

(4) Lacey's formula. This formula connects the monsoon rainfall (P) with the yield
(Q) by the equation.
. Y;eld (Q) = [I+ 3 ~d ... (18.5)
where m ·= a constant, called monsoon duration Jae-

. tor, the values of which are given in table
18.9.
n = a constant, called catchment factor, the
values of which are given for different
classes of catchments (as defined by Bar-
low) in table 18.10.
Table 18.9. Values of m to be used in Eq. (18.5)
S.No. Duration of Monsoon Monsoon Duration factor m
1. Bad year~ 0.5
2. Normal year 1.2
3. Good vear 1.5
Table 18.• 10. Values of n to be used in Eq. (18.5)
Class of
S.No. Description of the catchment Valuesofn
catchment
I. A Flat cultivated, absorbent soils 0.25
2. B Flat, partly cultivated stiff soils 0.60
3. c Average catchments 1.00
4. D Hills and plains with little cultivation 1.70
5. E Verv hil!v and steen catchments with little or no cultivation 3.45
(5) Inglis formula. Inglis derived his formula for catchments of West Maharashtra
State of India. He divided the areas as ghat areas (Sahyadri ranges) where rainfall is 200
~111 or :n:i9r_e; and D9n:gJ:i~Um~~£)Yb~rn_r~in(aJLi£ kss_t.h.~n.WQ cm._ I:Us fo.nnµ@s are:
(a) For ghat areas, with rainfall (P) equalling or exceeding 200 cm:
Yield= (0.85P..:.. 30.48) cm ... (18.6)
· where P is the rainfall in cm.
(b) For non-ghat areas with rainfall Pless than 200 cm.
.eld
Yl
P(P-17.78) .... (18.7)
254 cm
where P is the rainfall in cm.
(6) Khosla's formula. This formula is based upon the recent research work con-
ducted in this field, and is a very simple and useful formula. It can be easily applied to
the entire country, without bothering for the region of its origin. This formula states that
Yield (Q) = P- 0.48 Tm ... (18.8)
. - .. . .
---·-----·-----~----- --
wl:lere i::r=-tneyieJ.cnncm
P = the rainfall in cm
Tm= mean annual temperature of the area.
Example 18.4. The design annual rainfall for the catchment ofa prqposed reservoir
has been computed to be 99 cm. The catchment area has been estimated to have the
mean annual temperature of 209 C. The catchment area contributing to the proposed
reservoir is 1000 sq.km. Calculate the annual design catchment yield for this reservoir.
Make use of Khosla's formula.
Solution. Use Khosla's formula connecting the design rainfall (P) with the design
yield (Q) by Eq. (18.8) as:
Q =P-0.48 Tm
where P = 99 cm (given)
Tm = 20°C (given)
Q = 99 - 0.48 x 20 = 89.4 cm= 0.894 m
The total yield produced in m 3 from the given catchment of I 000 sq.km (i.e.
1000 x 106 m 2)
= 0;894x IOOOx 106 m 3 = 894 M.m3 Ans.
18.4.2. Use of Flow Duration Curves for Computing Dependable Flow
As we. know, the stream flow
varies widely over a water year·.
This variability of stream flow can
be studied by plotting flow duration
300 ' t
UJ 250 PERENNIAL RIVER
curves for the given stream. A flow !.'.)
a: INTERMITTENT AND
duration curve, also called as dis- <{ 200
EPHEMERAL RIVERS
::i:
charge-frequency curve, is a curve u
150
plotted between streamflow (Q) and (/)
Q
percent of time the flow is equalled 100
or exceeded (P{:), and is of the type >- 50
shown in Fig. 8.7 (a), (b) and (c). <{
Q
=
Such a curve can be plotted by
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
first arranging the stream flow values
PERCENTAGE PROBABILITY OF
(Q) in descending order using class FLOW BEING EQUALLED OR
intervals, if the number of individual EXC EEDE'O (Pp)
values is very large. The data to be
Fig. l 8.7(a). Typical flow-duration curves ori an
used can be of daily values, weekly ordinary paper.
values, or monthly values. If N data
2 0 0 ,__..;;..;...:........;_;__::.;.__;___.:....:_;_.:........;_;__ _..;.;....;,.,.;.;..:...:....:;___.;..;.;"..:..;·..:;;.-·;:.,;-:..- .;.--;,.:; -·; ; _- .:;;;--;;;:;-;;;_·;_.;;·-:.;.:--;_;;-;.,;:-""··. ;:;-::..;- -----;;;;.;-. --
......
1--
Ill
30
20
-;
0
LL
10 a50 =35m 3/s
3
G75 = 26m /s
--- ----·· -·---- ·-·-·----- :____ --···-·---'-- - --'-' -·-'-'---' ---'----'------·-1-''-"L'-' _:..::_ ______ -- -
I
4L---'--'--.l....JL..l.-.J...J..J...L._ _..___.__.__._.L...L.L-U--....J...--'--'L....d.--'-~'
0·1 0·2 0·3 0·5 2 3 5' 10 20 30 5.0 75 100
°loage probqbility of flow magnitude being
equalled or exceeded (Pp)
Fig. 18.7(b). A typical flow duration curve on a log-log paper.
values _are used, the plotting position of any discharge (or class value) Q is given, as :
* !st June to 30st May.
where m =is the order No. of that discharge (or class value)
PP = percentage probability of the flow magnitude
being equalled or exceeded.
The ordinate Q at any percentage probability p (such as 60%), i.e. Q,,, will represent
the flow magnitude of the river that will be available for 60% of the year, and is hence
termed as 60% dependable flow (Q 60 ). Q 100 (l.e: I 00% dependable flow) for a perennial'
river can, thus, be read out easily from such a curve. Q 100 for an ephmeral or for an
.intermittent river shall evidently be zero.
A flow-duration curve rept"esents the cumulative frequency distribution, and can be
considered to represent the stream flow variation of an average year. Such a curve can
be plotted on an ordinary arithmetic scale paper, or an semi-log or log-log paper. The
following characteristics of flow-duration curves have been noticed.
(1) The slope of the flow-duration curve depends upon the interval of data u_sed.
Say for .example, a daily stream flow data gives a steeper curve than a curve based on
monthly data for the same river. This happens due to smoothening of small peaks in
monthly data.
(2) The presence of a reservoir
on a stream upstream of the gauging 150
point will modify the flow-duration
---;;; 125-
curve for the stream, depending (")- Natural flow
upon the reservoir-regulation effect - .:. 100 \
on the released discharges. A typi- :::0 \
cal reservoir regulation effect on ·75 ''

flow duration curve is shown in Fig.
18.7 (c). :§' 5o ~~~:l:tio~-------
(3) The flow-duration curve, o 25
when plotted on a log probability
paper, is found to be a straight 0o
10 2 o 30 40 so 60 70 80 90 100
line at least over the central -
OJ.age probability of- flow magnitude
region, as shown in Fig. 18.7 (c). being ~quailed or exceeded (Pp)
From this prbperty, various coef- ·
ficierits expressing the variability _Fig. 18.7. (c) Reservoir regulation effect on the flow-
of the flow_ in a stream can be - duration curve of a stream-:--
developed for the description and comparison of different streams.
(4) The flow-duration curve plotted on a log-log paper (Fig. 18.7 (b)) is useful in
comparing the flow characteristics· of different streams. Say for example, a steep slope
of the curve indicates a stream with a highly variable discharge ; while a flat slope of
the curve indicates a small variability of flow and also a slow respOii"se·ofthecatchment
to the rainfall. A flat portion on the lower end of the curve indicates considerable base
flow. A flat portion on the upper end of the curve is typical of riv.~r basins having large
flood plains, and also of rivers having large snowfall during a wet season.
------- {5)-Tue-chronological-sequerice--of occurrence of the-flow gets -hidden in a-flow duration-
curve. A discharge of say 500 m 3/s in a stream will, thus, have the same percent~ge probability
(Pp), irrespective of whether it occurred in January or June. This aspect, a serious hand_icap of
such curves, must be kept in mind while interpreting a flow-duration curve.
Flow-duration curves find a considerable .use_ in water-resources _planning arid
development activities. Some of their important tJSes are indicated below :
(i) For evaluating dependable flows of various percentages, such as 100%, 75%,
60%, etc. in the planning of water-resources engineering projects.
(ii) In evaluating the characteristics of the hydropower pofentlal of a river.
(iii) In comparing the adjacent catchments with a view to extend the stream flow data.
(iv) In computing sediment load and dissolved solids load of a stream.
(v) In the design of drainage systems, and
(vi) in flood control studies.
18.5. Fixing the Reservoir Capacity for the Computed Value of the Dependable
Yield of the Reservoir Catchment
After deciding the dependable yield for the proposed reservoir (tank), the reservoir
capacity is decided as follows:
The water demand (annual of course) is computed by estimating the crop water
requirement (including transit losses) and any other water demand required to mee~ the water
supply needs, or the downstream commitments of water release, if any. Reservoir. losses @
about 15% of the water demand is then added to obtain the live or the net sto,ra.ge required
to meet the given demand. Dead storage is now added to this live storage to obtain the gross
storage required to meet the demand. The reservoir capacity, however, cannot exceed the
catchment yield (inflow into the reservoir), and hence the reservoir capacity is fixed at a
value which is lesser of the value of the assessed gross storage required to meet the demand;
and ii) the assessed dependable yield for .the reservoir site. The full tank level (FfL) or the
full reservoir level (FRL) is finally computed from the elevation-capacity curve.
The dead storage level or dead storage required in the above computation is usually
fixed at higher of the following values:
(a) dead storage = rate of silting x Life of the reservoir
(b) dead storage= 10% of gross storage or net water demand.
(c) dead storage level being equal to the full supply level of the off taking canal
at the tank site
Example 18.5. The lowest portion of the capacity-elevation curve of a proposed
irrigation reservoir, draining 20 km 2 of catchment, is represented by the following data:
Elevation in m Ca acity in ha.m
RL600 24.2
602 26.2
604 30.3
606 36.8
The rate of silting for the catchment has be~n assessed to be 300 m3!km 2!year.
Assuming the life of the reservoir to be 50 years, (a) compute the dead storage, and the
lowest sill level (LSL), if the main canal is 6km long with a bed slope of J in 1000, and
the canal bed level at the tail end is at RL 594.5 m. The FSD of the canal at the head
is 80 cm. The crop water requirement is assessed as 250 ham.
(b) If the dependable yield of the catchment is estimated to. be 0.29m, what wiU be
the gross capacity of the reservoir ?
-----' -- Solution. The dead storage is first of·allcompute·das-maxirinim·of the following--
three values : .
(a) dead storage =rate of silting x life of the resei:voir
. = 300 m 3/km 2/year x 20 km 2 x 50 year= 300000 m 3
(C.A.) (Life)
=30ha.m. ... (i)
(b) dead storage
= 10% x net water demand or crop water requirement= I 0% x 250 ha.m
= 25 ha.m ... (ii)
(c) Dead Storage Level= FSL of canal at hea.dworks

I
= 594.5 + (6 x 1000) + 0.8 = 601.4 m
1000
Dead Storage Capacity at RL 601.4 m is interpolated
. = 24 2 <26 ·2 - 24 ·2) ham RL (601 4- 600) = 24.2 + 2 x I .4
. + RL(602-600) x . 2
=24.2+ l.4ham=25.6ham ... (iii)
The dead storage is fixed at maximum of the three values obtained at (i), (ii) and (iii)
above, i.e. 30 ham, 25 ham, and 25.6 ham. Hence, choose the dead storage at 30 ham. Ans.
. The .LSL (x) corresponds to 30 ham capacity, which is computed as : . .
(30.3 - 26.2) ham RL ( )
30 = 26 ·2 h am+ RL (604 - 602) x x - 602
4 1
or 3.8 = ~ (x - 602)
3
(x - 602) = ·!.~ 2 = 1.85
x = RL 603.85 m.
The lowest sill level i.e. dead storage level is thus fixed at RL 603.85 m. Ans.
(b) Net water _demand = Crop water requirement including transit losses = 250 ham
Reservoir losses = 15% x 250 ham= 37.5 ham
Live storage required
to meet the given demand= (250 + 37.5) ham= 287.5 ham
De.ad storage = 30 ham (computed above)
:. Gross· reservoir storage required
=Live storage+ Dead storage= 287.5 + 30 = 317.5ham
Dependable yield= 0.29 m (depth)= 0.29 m x (20 x 106 m 2) = 580 ham
The gross capacity of the reservoir is fixed at the lesser of the gross storage required to
meet. th~ demand (i.e. 311.5 ham)_a11d_1b~--c:l~py11d~bl~yi~lq(i._e, ~~O ti_a.J!l.J._Jic:nce,_the
reservofr capac:iiy = 317:5 limn.
Ans. - . . . . .. . ........ ,. - . . .
18.6. Relation between Inflow, Outflow, and storage Data for a Reservoir
The inflow to the reservoir and the outflow from the reservoir are the only two
factors which govern the storage capacity of a reservoir. Since the inflow to the reservoir
is variable, water is stOrt?.d in the reservoir to cater to the required outflow from the
reservoir, particularly during the critical periods in non-monsoon season. Naturally, if
more outflow is required, more capacity has to be provided.
As.'a matter of fact, after assessing the monthly or annual inflows into the reservoir and
representing it by the mass inflow curve, the demand pattern is specified. The reservoir is then
usually designed to meet this specified demand, represented by the mass outflow curve.
The reservoir capacity, the reservoir inflow, and the outflow from the reservoir are
governed by the storage equation, given by:
.lnflow.-=-_.0.utflow_:;: lncreasejn_storage ... ___ c..___ c__:c:_ -~---- _____ .,,.
:. Increase in Reservoir Storage'= Inflow- Outflow ... ( 18.9)
18.7. Fixing the Reservoir Capacity from the Annual Inflow and Outflow Data
The capacity of reservoir may be determined by determining the storage needed to
accommodate the given inflow minus the given outflow, as governed by the above
equation. However, this study involves numerous factors,, as discussed below:
Streamflow data at the reservoir site must be known. Monthly i.nflow rates are
sufficient' for large reservoirs, but daily data. may be required for small reservoirs.
When the inflow data at the dam site are not known, .the data at a station elsewhere
RESERVOIRS .AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 923
.on the stream or on a nearby stream may be collected and adjusted to the dam site. The
available data may sometimes be extended so as to include a really drought period. .
Besides determining the streamflow data at the dam site, an adjustment has to be
made for the water required to be passed from the reservoir to satisfy the prior water
rights and to obey the agreements between various sharing States through which the
river is passing. ·
Moreover, the construction of a reservoir increases the exposed area of the water
surface above that of the natural stream, and thus, increases the evaporation losses. There
is, thus, a net loss of water occurring due to reservoir construction, Sometimes, these
losses may be so huge that the entire purpose of the reservoir may be defeated. Seepage
from the reservoir may also add to the loss resulting from the reservoir.
All these factors make this study very very complex. An approximate easy
solution for determining the reservoir capacity may be obtained graphically with the
help of mass curves as explained in the next article. On the other hand, a tabular
solution is necessary in order to account for all important factors. For more precise
results and for all compl~x systems, computers may be used for programming the
analysis (called operation study).
Example 18.6. Monthly inflow rates during a low-water period at the sit~ of a
proposed dam are tabulated in Col. (2) of table 18.9. The corresponding montMy pan
evaporation and precipitation at a nearby station are also tabulated in Col. ( 3) and Col.
(4) of the same table. Prior water rights make it obligatory to release the full na,tural
flow or 15 hectare-metres per month, whichever is minimum. If the estimated nil,'nthly
demands are as given in col. (5) of table 18.9 and the net increased pool area is 400
hectares, find the required storage capacity for the reservoir. Assume pan evaporation
coefficient=O. 7 and also assume that only 28% of the rainfall on the land area to be
flooded by reservoir has reached the stream in the past.
Table 18.11
Month Inflow at dam site in Pan evaporation Precipitation Demand in

hectare metres in cm in cm hectare-metres
(1) (2) (3) (4) - (5)
January 1.2 1.8 u 15.8
February 0.0 1.8 1.7 14.3
March 0.0 2.6 0.6 9.6
April 0.0 10.2 0.0 .;1-.8
May 0.0 15.4 0.0 3.5
June 0.0 1.6 I. I 3.4
July 240.0 10.8 16.1 5.0
August 480.0 11.7 16.4 5.0
September 1.0 10.8
I 2.2 10.0
October 0.6 9.6 0.8 15.6
November .. - --··- -- 0.5- - - -· 7-,8 - -· ----0,Q----- ·-- ----16,8
December . 0.2 2.0 0.0 16.8
I 723.5 10!.l 40.2, 120.6
Solution. Table 18.11 is extended as shown in Table 18.12. The 28% precipitation
is already reaching and is included in the given inflow [Col. (2)], and hence, only 72%
of the precipitation is to be included, as worked out in Col. (8). The table is otherwise
self- explanatory and the monthly water drawn from the reservoir is worked out in Col.
(I 0).
~-------,
j
'°~
I
I .Table 18.1~. Solution Table for Example 18.6

I
'
Require-
Precipitation in
ment due to prior Evaporation in Adjusted inflow. Water required
lnjlo~ at Pan hectare metres
Precipi- Demand rights equal to hectare-metres Col. (2) + Col. (8) from storage in
dam site evapo- 400xCol.{4)
Month
inhecthre- ration
talion in in hectare- 'Col. (2) or 400 x Cof. p) O 100 x 072. - Cof. (6) - Col. ha. m. Col. (5)-
cm metres 15 ha.m 100 x .7 I (7) Col (9) (only +11e
met~es in cm = 2.88 x Col.( 4}
whichever is = 2.8 x Col.(3} in he(rlare metres values)
i
I
:, minimum
(1) . (2)I (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10)
I i
January 11.2
I
1.8 1.3 15.8 1.2 5.03 3.74 (-} : 1.29 17.09
::a
::ti
February 0.0 1.8 1.7 14.3 0.0 5.03 4.9 (-} ' 0.13 14.43 Ci
I
March d.o
I
>
!'
2.6 0.6 9.6 0.0 7.28 1.73 (-} 5.55 15.15 ::j
.,., ~
j, ,/
April Q.O 10.2 0.0 4.8 0.0 28.56 0.0 . (-} I 28.56 33.36
~
May d.o 15.4 0.0 3.5 I
' 0.0 43.1 0.0 (-} 43.1 46.60 0
June d:o
i
16.6 1.1 3.4 I 0.0 46.4 3.17 (-} 43.23 46.63 ~
::ti
July 240.0 10.8 16.1 5.0 i
15.0 30.3 46.4 (+}: 241.l Nil z0
August 480.0 11.7 16.4 5.0 15.0 32.8 ·47.3 (+} 479.5 Nil ;i.
I
·I z
September
I
0
\.0 10.8 2.2 10.0 1.0 30.3 6.34 (-} 23.96 33.96 ::i::
><:
October 6.6 9.6 0.8
November
I
Q.5 7.8 0.0
15.6
16.8
0.6
0.5
26.9
21.8
2.31
0.0
(-}
(-)
I 24.39
21.8
39.99
38.60
g
December 0.2 2.0 0.0 16.8 0.2 5.6 0.0 (-} 5.6 22.40 n
Cll
t 12p.5 101.l 40.2 120.6 33.5 283.1 116.49 308.21 ;d

,,
?5
-I
c::
m
Cll
------~- --------------. _j
Finally, their summation (i.e. 308.21 hectare-metres) works out to be the required
storage capacity of the reservoir. Ans.
18.8. Fixation of Reservoir Capacity with the Help of Mass Curves of Inflow and Outflow
After the flow hydrographs for the stream at the dam site have been plotted for a
large number of years (say 25 to 30 years), the required storage capacity for a reservoir
with a given outflow pattern
can be approximately calcu- 3::
lated with the help of mass o FLOW HYOROGRAPH
-'LL. UJ
curves. A hydrograph is a plot z ,...
of discharge vs. time, while a ~ ~
mass curve is a plot of ac- o
cumulated flow vs. time. The ~
area under the hydrograph be- G
1 AREA(Al)UPTO THE TIME t
tween times t = 0 and t =t will 0 ~ =ORDINATE OF MASS CURVE AT
represent nothing but the ac- ·-==----+.t<-:.0~-'-"-<--"-+'--------------.l-
cumulated flow up to the time t=t .---TIME (YEAR)
t, and hence, the ordinate of
the mass curve at time t. ~
A typical annual inflow ii
hydrograph is shown in Fig. ~
18.8 (a), and the mass curve for ~ ~I MASS INFLOW CURVE
this inflow hydrograph is ~
plotted in Fig. 18.8 (b). The area
under the first curve upto a time --TIME (YEAR)
(t) is equal to the ordinate of the
Fig. 18.8 (a) and (b).
second curve at the same time
(t). Adjustments for the scales and units of the two curves must be made while plotting.
It is evident that a mass curve will continuously rise, as it is the plot of the
accumulated inflow. Periods of no inflow would be represented by the horizontal lines
on the mass inflow curve. To differentiate such a mass curve of runoff from the mass
curve of rainfa11, this mass curve is usually callecl' as the flow mass curve and is an
integral· of the flow hydrogrph. · .
The mass curve may also be called the ripple diagram. The slope of the mass curve
at any time is a measure of the inflow rate at that time.
After the inflow mass curve has been plotted; the mass curve of demand may also
be plotted by accumulating the required outflow. If a constant rate of withdrawal is
required from the reservoir, the mass curve of demand will be a straight line having a
slope equal to the demand rate. Demand curves or demand lines are generally straight
lines (representing uniform withdrawal) although, in practice, they may be curved also
[See Fig. 18.9 (a) and (b)].
0
t
---·----- '----:i:-- ·---Demand ------'-~
I
- - -"-3;-t-------'--"'----'"
0
-
:;::
::>
0
VI VI
Ill
VI
0 0 curve
;:i;: z
Time ---
Fig. 18.9 (a) Fig. 18.9 (b).

01/t1 =Slope of the line= Demand rate
Determining Reservoir Capacity for a Given Demand

The mass curve of inflow and the demand line can. be used to determine the required
storage capacity. In Fig. 18.10, it is evident that the demand lines drawn tangent to the
high points Ai, A2 , A3 ... of the mass curve, represent the rate of withdrawal from the
reservoir. Assuming the reservoir to be full whenever the demand line in!ersects th~
mass curve (points Fi, F 2 •••), the maximum departure (Bi Ci, B 2C2...) between the two
curves represents the reservoir capacity just required to satisfy the demand.
,150
140
130
120
.;;; 110
.... B2 ,
/
~
~ 100
,/f MAX ORDINATE B2C2
:i::
0 90 / =1950 HA-MTS.
~ /
/
~ 80 // ~""
3: 70 // '<>"o
g A2· , WATER SPILLED .~
lL ;T--.,;50 0 HA- MTS _,'..'
60 / ~~
~
(f)
(f)
PT.AT WHICH RESR.IS FULL ..:J~~~~~
50 ~<;) , ....
<t
::;:
40 ~"' ~ . 2000
<:>'<)r::."""" HA-MTS
,; .
t 30
...j l YEAR!-
I 20
10
0
1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956
--.....----."'---- TIME· (YEA.R l
Fig. 18.10.
Fig. 18.10 has been drawn for a demand of 2,000 h~ctare- metres/year. The biggest
departure ordinate (i.e. the maximum of Bi C1, B2C2•• .) works out to be 1,950 hectare-
metres/year, which represents the required storage capacity for the reservoir.
The vertical distance between the successive tangents AiB 1, and A2B2, etc., represent
the water wasted over the spillway. The spillway must have sufficient capacity ·to
discharge this flood volume.
For Fig. 18.10, the spillway.capacity works out to be 600 hectare-metres, and the
reservoir capacity as 1,950 hectare-metres. It can also be observed that:
(i)' Assunit)lg the reservoir to be full at A 1' it is depleted to 1,950 - 1,500 = 450
h,a:-m at C 1 and is again full at Fi.
_ _ _ _.:...~ii)-1'.he-reser-v0ir-is-foll-between-Fr-and-A 2' and the quantity-of-water· s piHed-o ver --
the spillway is equal to 600 ha-m.
(iii) From A2, the water starts reducing in the ,reservoir till it becomes fully empty
at C2•
(iv) The water again starts collecting in the reservoir and it is again full at F2 •
Note 1. It may also be noted that a demand line, when extended, must intersect the
mass curve. If it does not:, the reservoir will nor refill.
Note 2. When the demand curve is not ~
a straight line, then the two mass curves ~
are superimposed over each other in such :x: c:i:
a way that their origins and axis coincide.
~
The larger ordinate between the two, gives 3:
the required storage capacity, as shown in g
Fig. 18.11. .u.
Fixing the Demand for a Reservoir ~t
of a Given Capacity ....
In the previous article, we have ex- --r.c..--'---------~__:____
plained as to how the reservoir capacity ---TIME I YEARS I
can be determined for a given demand. Fig. 18.11.
The reverse, i.e. fixing the demand for a
given reservoir capacity, may also be done with the help of mass curve of inflow.
In this case, the tangents are drawn to the high points (A 1, A 2, ... ) of the mass inflow
curve in such a way that the maximum departure from the mass curve is equal to the
reservoir capacity. The slopes of the lines so drawn represent the demand rate wnich
can be obtained with this capacity during different periods. The minimum value of these
slopes will represent the withdrawal rate, which can certainly be obtained from the given
reservoir, and will, thus, represent its firm yield.
For example in Fig. 18.12, a mass inflow curve i$ given. It is further required to
find out the possible yields and the safe yield for a reservoir capacity of 750 ha-m. To
determine these values, we shall proceed as follows :
110
SLOPE IS FOUND =1350~ 8 3,.......-
100 ~ 750HA-MTS
(/)
I-
A3
~
90
1
<! 80 SLOPE FOUND =-1950
:c
0
0 70
z
60
3:
0
..J 50
lJ...
::z
(/)
~o
en
~ 30
20 DRAWN II TO Al Bl
1 ., o:;;-""""::....;_;..._'"-+"~--;;.._;-=--=-'"'"--=--=--=---=--=---~--f--=--~-~---4--'--~'------'-- -----------
1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971
---TIME IN YEARS
Fig. 18.12.
First of all, the high points .4 1, A2 and A3 are marked on the mass inflow curve. The
points B 1, B2, and B3 are determined in such a way that their maximum departure from
the curve is equal to 750 ha-m. The tangent lines A 1B1, A2B2 and A3B3 are then drawn.
The slopes of these lines are determined and are found to be 1,26.0, 1,950, 1,3~:0
ha-m/year, respectively. These values represent the possible yields in different periods.
The minimum of them, i.e. I,260 ha-m/year represents the safe yield or the firm yield of
the reservoir. Ans.
Example 18.7. Annual runoff in terms of depth over the catchment area of 1675
sq.km. of a reservoir is given below:
Year 1962 63 64 65 66 67 68 69
Runoff(cm) 98 143.5 168.3 94 95.3 152.4 110 131.3
Draw the flow mass diagram. What is the average yield from the catchment? What
should be the live storage capacity of the reservoir to.use.the.sourcefully? !f t~e dead
storage is 20% of the live storage, what is the gross storage? Mark the filling and
emptying periods on the mass curve. (Bhopal University, 1980)
Solution. The cumulative runoff values are worked out in Col. 4 of table 18·. I 3, and
they are plotted against the values of corresponding years (col. 1) of the same table, so
as to obtain the desired mass diagram [Fig. 18.13].
Table 18.13 . -
Run<!ffa.~ volume in Cumulative runoff as vo/i11ne

Year Yearly runoff(cm) M 3= C!il. (2) x 1675 inM.m 3
.m JOO
(I) (2) (3) (4)
1962 98 1642 1642
63 143.5 2404 4046
64 168.3 2819 6865
65 94 1575 8440
66 95.3 1596 10,036
67 152.4 2553 12,589
68 110 . 1842 14,431
69 131.3 2199 16,630
---- ..
- ·:r:992:8 16630
The average annual yield of the catchment is the arithmetic mean of the given
annual yields, and is equal to
992.8
==--== 124.l cmofrunoff
8
rn
= 1.241 x CA in m2 (volume of runoff)·
= 1.241 m x (1675 x 106) m 2
= 2078.68 Mm 3 ; say 2079 Mm3 Ans.
Now, to utilise the source fully, there sbould not be any spilling over of the water,
and the yearly demand should be equal to the average yield i.e. 2079 Mm 3 .
To determine the required reservoir capacity to meet this demand rate, a line is
1
_ c.d_i:awn fr_om.the-..high-point-Ai-,-PaFaJ.lel=t0-this-'demandfate;· as· shown fo-Fig~18·:13 ;-·aria ___
the maximum departure of this line from the mass curve is read out as
B 1C 1 =1065 Mm 3•
Hence, the required reservoir capacity is 1065 Mm 3. Ans.
Physically speaking, the reservoir will be empty at trough pts C1 and C2, and full
at ridge point A 1•
Alternatively, the mass demand line can be plotted, and both curves extended back
up to the origin 0, as shown in Fig. 18.14.
1Booo.----.~R-e_q_G_.s_t_o-ra_g_e_c_a_pa-c~i-ty_=_g_r_e_a_t-er_o_f---.
s, c, & Bz Cz:10G5Mm3
curve
60001----+-~-+---~~-"'-
I
Dem and -t--o#-...J
llne
4000t---,'--:1t---t-----+----+--+---7'o,_,__.,"---<
81 .
2 000 10 65 Mm 3_ _+---+--+---+-----I
C1(Empty)
64 65 66 67 68 69
YEAR
Fig. 18.13.
120001----+---..,___ _.
-·l 100001----l----+----l---f----..1
Mass inflow
~--+---+----!
M
i 80001----+----+---r+-..11!:+----+--~--+----1
z·
-~ 6-0 0 0 1--'--=-4-~-l---'-'
0
...J
'1IIlilf E mry1ng
u..
z 40001-----1--~.... -+----+--+-1.;>·"?·fll Filling
,_
o~-,~9~67
2--G~3=--=57
4--755=--G~6,----,,6~7---16~8---'69
TIME (YEAR)---).,...~
Fig. 18.14.
It can be seen from this curve, that from 0 to C 1, the slope of the inflow curYie is
less than that of the demand curve, indicating that the inflow is less than the outflow,
and the reservoir is emptying. From C 1 to D 1, the slope of the inflow curve is i1n excess
of the demand, and reservoir is filling. The vertical intercept C 1 C, from the inflow curve
at C 1 to the demand curve at C, represents the initial storage to meet the demand from
0 to C 1• At D 1, the reservoir level is the same as at 0. After DI> and upto A 1, the slope
of the inflow curve is steeper tnan that of the demand curve, and as such, the reservoir
is still rising. Point A 1 represents the full reservoir level. Vertical intercept A1A repre-
sents the storage between the initial water level corresponding to the point 0 and the
full reservoir level. The. total minimum storage capacity of the reservoir to meet the
demand is thus given by the vertical intercepts C 1CandA 1A.
Max. withdraw! from storage+ Max. stored in storage
= 437 + 628 = 1065 mcm. Ans.
The emptying and filling processes are also shown in Fig. 18.14 ; filling will occur
when the slope of the inflow curve is more than that of the demand curve, and vice
versa.
18.9 .. Fixation of Reservoir Capacity Analytically using Sequent Peak Algorithm
The sequent peak algorithm is a simple and straight forward analytical procedure,
for computing reservoir capacity, and is used as an excellent alternative to the mass
curve method of determining reservoir capacity.
In the mass curve analysis, the reser.voir is assumed to be full at the beginning of
the dry period, and storage required to pass the dry period is estimated. If the mass curve \
contains only one ridge point, and if there is no well defined subsequent trough point, I
it may become necessary to. repeat the given data for one more cycle to arrive at the
desired storage determination. Also, the demand rate is usually not a straight line (as
assumed in mass curve analysis), since the demand (out flow) generally becomes non-
uniform due to seasonal variations in the demand. T1ie sequent peak algorithm technique
helps us to device simple mathematical solution to the problem of computing the reser-
voir cap{lcity. ________________ _ __
Sequent peak algorithm (Fig. 18.15) is a plot between time (say, in months) on
X-axis, and cumulative inflow minus cumulatives outflow on Y-axis. The quantity taken
on Y-axis, corresponding to each month equals to [:L Inflow - :L outflow] = [:L (Inflow-
Outflow ]. This value is also called cumulative net inflow.
The+ ve values of cumulative net inflow, representing cumulative surplus of inflow
will be plotted above X-axis, while its negative values, representing 'cumulative deficit _
of inflow, will be plotted below x-axis.
The obtained plot will consist of peaks and troughs, as shown in Fig. 18.15.
The first ridge point A 1 in this plotting (i.e, first peak of cumulative net surplus) is called
the first peak ; while subsequent
ridge points A2, A 3 , A4, etc., are
called sequent peaks.
. Sim!larly, the fi_rst trough
t _ A_
peaks
- - --pomt-Br1s-called-the-first-trough-;-;:::::- - -11.J!-~-===------,.-....
while subsequent trough points ~0
B2 , B3, etc. may be called the se- E
...
quent troughs. ~
The difference between the :i:0
first peak and first trough (height ~ 3
A1 B 1) will, in this plot, evidently, .;::, Max. storage

IN
represent the reservoir storage re- Time in Months -
quired under normal inflows, and Fig. 18.15. Sequent Peak Algorithm.
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 93]
is called the normal storage ; whereas, the maximum difference between any sequent peak
and the just following trough will represent the maximum storage required for the reservoir. -
The normal and maximum storage through sequent peak algorithm is calculated as
follows : ·
(1) Convert the monthly inflows into the volume units for the period of the
available data.
(2) Estimate the monthly volumes of all the outflows from the reservoir. This
should include losses from evaporation, seepage, and other losses.
(3) Compute the cumulative values of Inflows.
(4) Compute the cumulative values of outflows.
(5) Compute the values of cumulative inflow minus cumulative outflow i.e.
[ :L Inflow - :L Outflow].
(6) Plot a graph by taking months (time) on X-axis, and :L (I - 0) of step (5) on
Y-axis, on an ordinary graph paper.
(7) The data will plot peaks and troughs. The second and subsequent peaks are
called sequent peaks. _ _
(8) The maximum difference between any sequent peak and the just following trough
is_the maximum storage.required for the reservoir. The difference between the first
peak and the trough following it, is the storage required under normal inflows.
The method will become more clear on solving example 18.8.
Example 18.8. Monthly inflows at a proposed reservoir site for a drought period
of J5 months are given along with targetted demands (found from a working table) in
the table below. C,ompute the storage required by plotting sequent peak algorithm.
Table 18.14
Month June July Aug Sept Oci Nov Dec Jan Feb March April May June July Aug
River Inflows 250 350 400 200 150 150 JOO 50 150 300 400 450 150 200 450
(Mm 3 )
Targetted 150 150 200 250 350 400 250 200 150 150 JOO 250 350 300 JOO
demand M m 3
-- -- - - . --.·- --.-- --·- -·· ---
Solution. Ca1culat1ons are earned out m Table 18.15 to compute :L (J - 0) m col (6).
~ -.~-
Table 18.15
Inflow([) Outjlow(O) Cumulative lt!flow Cumulative Outflow
Month
Mm 3 I Mm 3 !-l(M m 3) ! O(M m 3)
(!I-! 0)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

June 250 150 250 150 +JOO
July 350 150 600 300 + 300
Alig 400 200 1000 500 +500
-s~pt 200 250 1200 750 +450
Oct 150 350 1350 1100 +250
Nov
Dec
150
100
400
250
1500
1600
I 1500
1750
0
(-) 150
Jan____ 50 200- 1650 - --- 1-950 -- - (-) 300 -
Feb 150 150 1800 2100 (-) 300
March 300 150 2100 2250 (-) 150
April 400 100 2500 2350 + 150
May 450 250 2950 2600 +350
June 150 350 3100 2950 :+ 150
july 200 300 3300 3250 +50
-Aug 450 100 3750 3350 +400
To calculate values of :L (/ - 0), values of LI (cumulative inflow) are written.in col
(4), and values of :L 0 (cumulative outflow) are written in col (5).
Values of (LI - L 0) = L (! - 0) are new calculated by subtracting values of col (5)

from values of col (4). These values are written in col (6) with their+ ve or-ve sign,
representing excess & cumulative deficit, respectively. When values of (LI - L 0) from
col (6) are plotted on y-axis along with corresponding values of month (col I) taken on
x-axis, a plot containing peaks and troughs will be obtained, as shown in Fig. 18.16,
called sequent peak algorithm. The difference between first peak and the trough follow-
ing it, is found to be 800 M m 3 , which represents the reqd. storage capacity .. Ans.
500
400
A, _ _ _
.
--.-T.
.
300
Storage=
QI
800 M.m 3
>
"'E + 100
:i 0
........ Jun Aug
0
I
....
'-'
~
, . 100
w 200
300
e,
400
500
Fig. 18.16. Sequent peak algorithm for Example 18.8.
Alternatively, the values of L (/ - 0) can be more easily computed by first com-
puting +veand-ve values of (1-0), as in col (4) & (5) of Table 18.16; and then
computing their summation values, i.e. values of L (I - 0) as in col (6) and (7) of Table
18.6. + ve values represent cumulative excess inflow; while -ve values represent cumula-
tive deficit. The maximum value out of all the values of Col (6) and (7) will represent the
min~mu_I!l _s_torage_ recil1ir(!_~U() ~~c_Oil'lf.IlQc:i!lt~ th~ su_rplus (or to _supply the d~fis,it). This_~
method thus, avoid~ the necessity of pfottirig peaks & froughs (curve) and the value ofreqd
storage capacity can be computed easily and mathematically, which procedure can even be
programmed in a digital computer to help in estimation of required storage capacity. In
present calculations, this peak value in col (6) & (7) is found to be 800 M.m3• Ans.
Table 18.16 * ·
In.flow/ Ouiflow (0)
(1-0) r. (/- 0)
Month + ve values -ve values Cumulative Cumulative
3
Mm 3 Mm 3 Excess (M m3) Deficit (M m3) excess (M m3) . deficit (M m )
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
June 250 150 100 100
July . 350 150 200 300
Aug 400 200 200 500
Sept 200 250 50 50
-Octc:._c_:___ -----150- ·---- ..c..:._:.J$Q-·- --·- ---- -· 200 .. - . - .... ···250--~
Nov 150 400 250 500

Dec 100 250. 150 650
Jan 50 200 150 800*
Feb 150 150 0 0 (Peak value
March 300 150 150 150 in col 6 & 7)
April 400 100 300 450
May 450 250 200 650
June 150 350 200 200
July 200 300 JOO 300
Aug 450 100 350 350
* Max. of all the values in col (6) & (7)
Example 18.9. Solve Example 18. 7 analyticaliy without using mass curve.
Solution. The data given in example 18.7 is used in Table 18.17 to compute (I - 0) values
in col (4) and (5) [- ve i.e. deficit values in col (4), and+ ve i.e. Excess values in col (5)]. The
values of L (I - 0) are finally computed in col (6) & (7). as shown :
Table 18.17
1-0 I. (1-0)
Inflow(/) Outflow (0) -ve + ve Cumulative Cumulative
Year
Mm 3 Mm 3 Deficit Surplus Deficit Surplus
Mm 3 Mm 3 Mm 3 Mm 3
- -
(1) (2) (3) (4) (S;-- -(6) (71
1962 1642 2079 437 437
63 2404 2079 325 325
64 2819 2079 740 1065*
65 1575 2079 504 504
66 1596 2079 48'.2_1 987
67 2553 2079 474 474
68 1842 2079 237 237
69 2199 2079 120 120
Out of all the values of col. (6) and (7), the max. value is 1065 which Mm 3,
represents the min. storage required to accommodate this 1065 Mm 3 surplus water
entering during the years 1963 and 19.64. Ans .
.\Gross storage reqd. :;: Dead storage+ Live storage
Ii
i\' = 20% of Live storage+ Live storage i I
'.~ '>:\ = 1.2 Live storage= 1.2 x 1065 Mm 3 = 1278 Mm3 Ans.
°':Ex~mple 18.10. The yield of water in Mm 3 from a catchment area during each
successive month is given in the table below :
Determine the minimum capacity of a reservoir required to allow the above volume
of water to be drawn off at a uniform rate assuming that there is no loss of water over
the spillway.
Solution. The total inflow of water in 12 months
= Summation of inflow values := 57.4 Mm 3.
:. Average monthly rate at which water is withdrawn to use the inflow fully= Av.
demand rate= 57.4/12 = 4.78 Mm3 .
Now, to draw the mass curve of inflow, the cumulative inflow values are worked
out in table 18.18.
Table 18.18
Month Yield(Mm 3) Cumulative yield (Mm 3 )
1.4 1.4 - ·--·-···--·"··
2 2.1 3.5
3 2.8 6.3
4 8.4 14.7
5 11.9 26.6
6 11.9 38.5
7 7.7 46.2
8 2.8 49.0
9 2.52 51.52
IO 2.24 53.76
n 1.96 55.72
12 1.68 57.40
'
The mass inflow curve is now plotted, as shown in Fig. 18.17. A line parallel to the ·
demand rate line is now drawn through the high point A 1 on the inflow mass curve, as
shown. The maximum departure between the inflow mass curve and this line, i.e.
B 1C 1, gives the min. storage capacity reqd. This value is read out as 20.78 Mm 3• Ans.
70 /
Line parallel to demand /
line through the pt. A1 /
60
l
on outflow
50
I
M
E
:.l:
z
3:: 30
0
_J
IL.
z
2 rn onths
Slope of 1
1---+--+-++----1 de m ah d line
Max. ordinate= B1 C1
. -;2o·78Mm3
I
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 !S 16 17
MONTHS-
Fig. 18.17.
Analytically, the solution to the problem can be worked out, as shown in table 18. J 9.
Table 18':19
Outflow Cumulative - _<;iimJ~{Qtive_
Inflow Defitit Surplus
Month (Demand) Deficit Surplus
Mm 3 3 , Mm 3 Mm 3 3 3
Mm Mm Mm
( 1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
1 1.4 4.78 3.38

-
2 2.1 4;78 2.68
3 2.8 4.78 1.98 8.04

-
4 8.4 4.78
6
I 1.9
11.9
--"--'-7-:- --'----7~7- -- . --
4.78
4.78
... -438 - --- --

'"]
7.12
7.12
2.92
--·---
-·
- ·--·-------
20.78
8 2.8 4.78 1.98
9 2.52 4.78 2.26
10 2.24 4.78 2.54
11 1.96 4.78 2.82
12 1.68 4.78 3.10 12.70

The highest value in col. (6) and 7 (as no spilling is allowed), is 20.78 Mm3 , which
gives the min. required reservoir storage. Ans. ·· ·
Example 18.11. The runoff data for a river during a lean year are given below :
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
River flow
140 27 35 26 16 48 212 180 116 92 67 37
in J0 6m 3
What is the maximum uniform demand that can be met? What is the storage capacity
required to meet this demand? What minimum initial storage is necessary? When does
the reservoir become empty? ./ .
Sollltion. Total inflo~ in the year :::/Summation of the giveri monthly discharges
=996M.m 3•
Average monthly rate at which water can be withdrawn to avoid any wastage i.e:
max average monthly rate
= 996
12
=83 Mm3 Ans.
Now, to determine storage capacity etc. we carry out the computations in table
18.20.
Table 18.20
.~
cc "'
·c... ~ ·c...c ., .,
.,... ~ e .. .,... ·=,g.,
..... .e N
.~~
~
~~·
<.>::.. i:
~~ "'~ 'E:j.,
:Z~
]~
\l.).
. . t:
"lj
.,"' "' . ~~ .::; e"'.,, .s~ ~~ ·g~"'~;
•@~ ".$ .:;
·11~~ E~ .,~"' ·- ::l"'
~ ::l ....
., "' <:l c
<) · -
c·- ... c
~ ~.:; ..Q g
.,
<.'.:!..~ "'
~~-- e-"'
::i ·-
·.S::<;;.
-~ .~ ~
~~
~ ~ I
,.Q
..... ...
..i::
..Q §- "' ~~ 1;l ::l
<:l"'
;:, ~
..... .,
,I
-
...
..i::
----- -·-- --~-~-- - - "'"'
c ~
-~c-.
..i::"'
--~--~
c -c
·-
,.Q
..i::
·--~·-
-.:: 8"' - "'"'
8"' ~ ':S
~ ~~ ~
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
Jan 140 83 57 57 (+) 57
-
Feb 27 83 56
March 35 83 48
April 26 83 57
May 16 83 67
-
June 48 83 35 263 (-) 206
-
July I 212 83 129
Aug .. 180 83 - - 97 ---- -- ---- -- ·- -- ------------ --·'- -- ----
---·-- - - -------- ----- ---- ---- - .
Sept 116 83 33
Oct 92 83 9 268 (+) 62
-
Nov 67 83 16
Dec 37 83 4Q_, 62 0
The highest value in col. (6) and (7) is 268 Mm3 , which represents the minimum
storage capacity/required to meet the demand without any spilling. Ans.
/
To compute the min. initial storage, we compute in col. (8), the net storage left in
the reservoir with the above inflows and outflows. The maximum negative storage here
works out to be 206 Mm3• In order that the reservoir fully meets the demand with the
· above inflows & outflows, there should be no negative storage in it, and in the limiting
case the max. negative storage should be equal to zero. Hence, the min. initial storage
in the reservoir should be 206 Mm3, which will just meet the shortage created in the
reservoir by June end, when the reservoir will become empty. Ans.
Example 18.12. The storage capacity of a reservoir for a flood control project is
to be determined. The estimated cost ofdamag~ if the emergency spillway is topped is
Rs. 10 lacs for each event. The interest rate is 6% and the reservoir life is 50 years. Six
reservoir designs of different storage capacities ; the probabilities of exceeding those
capacities in any given year, and the estimated initial cost for construction of the
reservoir are as follows :
Reservior design number 1 2 3 4 5 6
Flood storage capacity in lac cubic 55
30 35 40 45 50
metres -
: Probability of excee(iing storage capacity 0.02 0.01
0.15 0.10 0.06 0.04
·in any given year
Estimated initial cost, in lac rupees 25 30 35 40 45 50
Determine the optimal storage capacity of the reservoir.

(A.M.I.E. 1989)
Solution. The required computations are carried out in table 18.21 below.
Table 18.21
·~
., ....0 l ~
:i;::.~~-
Cj CIJ@ ti ~ ~--
.;
~
-~- .s - ·~
"tl e
(,) __ . ·:.:~·:-CS---· ~-
5 .::f ...: .s§
.0 ~., ....0 8 §- s~c:.:>
~·~ x e9.~~ ~8 I
§-
.... "tl • .ii:!
,,g
.... .....
~
..e., ::I£:
·~
-~ £: '<::."' l:l...: ., 0
.~
.,., ~ g ::I ...
.0...: Q,
"'I
§-::I ..... §-
., ~ ~ "tl
g~ ., ., e
... "".ii:! ...:~
ge g ~...: C\l
Ir) ~
.,
'5 ~ >. "tl
5 ~-- ., ...::i ..Q=
~ Q"' 0"'
~ ., :i5 ~ §-~ .s~3~ ti~
....
.::;
.,i:
.,
.... ...:
...,, ...
0 .ii:!
...
.,
e .....
~~
..Q
e..., 0
£: .,
·~ ~ .5
~.s
.,a...~.;
:;l "'""'
~
~~~
~o .
~
Jl~~
- ., 'a- .;
.... ~
~.s
,l:l t:l
~::
CJ cs
I
t-..
~
~
-~
:.a~-
.....
8
~ °'g II
]..."' i: ~ 8 -g:g
..Q .,
~ ~ e c~
~~
e ., ...:
£: ~.ii:!
e ""' ::I£:
... 'ii §-
(1) (2)
ci..
(3)
-
(4)
~ ., .s
(5)
'ii~ ...
C>;l ..g
(6)
~
(7)
C>;l ....
Q,
(8)
~
(9)
1 30 15% 7.5 75 - 25 - -
2 35 l0% 5 50 25 30 5 20
- 3 - .. . ~%-···
·- - --
30··
---,m-:~ 3 45 35 35
~---
10
4 45 4% 2 20 55 40 15 40
5 50 2% 1 IO 65 45 20 45
6 55 1% 0.5 5 70 50 25 45
The above table computes the damages caused by overflooding for each proposal,
the max. damage of Rs. 75 lakhs being for proposal 1 - having min. reservoir capacity;
and the min. damage of Rs. 5 lakh being for proposal 6 - having max. storage capacity.
The additional benefits thus provided by proposals 2 to 6 over proposal 1 are computed
in col (6) as 75 lakhs - col (5). Extra costs are also worked out in col (8).
These calculations reflect that in proposal 2, we spend ~xtra Rs. 5 lakh (over
proposal 1) and get a benefit of 25 lakhs (over proposal 1 of course); i.e. a net benefit
of Rs. 20 lakh. Similarly, in proposal 3, we spend extra Rs. IO lakhs & get a benefit of
Rs. 45 lakhs over proposal I; i.e. a net benefit of Rs. 35 lakhs. Similarly, we find that
our net benefit increases up to proposal 5, and afterwards, as in proposal 6, it becomes
equal to that in proposal 5. Hence, the increase in reservoir capacity up to proposal 5
gives us increasing net returns, but thereafter we don't get any extra net returns. Invest-
ing more, beyond proposal 5, would, therefore; not be optimal, and thus, proposal 5 can
be considered as the most optimum design.
Hence, the optimum storage capacity of the reservoir will correspond to that of
proposal 5, i.e. SO lakh m 3 • Ans. ·
18.10. Estimation of Demands and Optimal Reservoir Operations
In the previous articles, it was explained as to how the reservoir capacity can be
determined for satisfying a certain given downstream demand or vice versa. This
demand may be constant or may vary throughout the year.
The demand pattern mainly depends upon the purpose for which the reservoir has
been constructed. Hence, it has to be different for different types of reservoirs.
Moreover, the demands are man made, and should be adjusted in such a way that the
maximum benefits can be obtained with the minimum cost. If by reducing the demands
slightly, a lot of expenditure can be saved, then we must go in for that. This is known
as optimal planning for dam reservoirs, and involves economic considerations, discussed
afterwards.
Demand patterns for various types of reservoirs are explained, below :
(i) Single Purpose Conservation Reservoir.. A single purpose conservation reservoir
shall store water only to meet one particular demand, such as water supply or irrigation
or hydroelectric power generation, etc. In all such cases, the demand for water can be
predicted with a fair degree of accuracy for different parts of the year, and the storage
capacity can be worked out, as explained earlier. The storage capacity so worked out
should be otherwise feasible and should be justified on cost benefit considerations.
(ii) Single Purpose Flood Control Reservoir. In case of a single purpose flood
control reservoir, there is no specific downstream demand at all, except to satisfy that
the downstream release should not exceed the safe carrying capacity of the channel.
Since the effect of constrQcting
a flood control reservoir is to
~o_X:..'lO.!~'!!_ e!Gk
moderate and redu~e the flo~d .
t
__p_~_a,ks_by _absorbmg_certam-"-r--·-
ui
volume of flood, and then li:
gradually releasing it when the E
flood subsides (Fig. 18.18), the §,
capacity of such a reservoir ~
should be sufficient to absorb f1.
this excess volume of flood.
It, therefore, becomes evi-
Tirne - -
dent that the capacity of such a Fig. 18.18.
l~
reservoir does n.ot depend upon the pattern of.demand but mainly depends upon the
hydrograph of the worst flood that. is likely to enter this reservoir and also upon the
downstream permissible H,F;L. arid the safe carrying capacity of the channel.
The hydrograph of the worst inflow flood can be found from the hydrological
investigations, and the safe peak rate of outflow can be determined from the downstream
channel conditions. The capacity of the reservoir required to moderate the inflow peak
to a value equal to or less than the downstream safe peak can then be found by hit and
trial method with the help of flood routing. Flood routing is the process by which the
hydrograph 9f the moderated flood can be determined, and is explained a little-later.
(iii) Multipurpose Reservoirs. Single purpose reservoirs are seldom constructed
these days. Reservoirs are therefore, generally designed to serve more than one purpose.
For examp(e, a reservoir constructed for conserving water for irrigation may be com-
bined with its flood control purpose. The head available may simultaneously be utilised
for generating hydro-electric power. This combination of irrigation, flood control, and
power is generally adopted in designing multipurpose reservoirs in India.
For proper optimal planning of such a multipurpose reservoir, a schedule of opera-
tions must be finalised from a number of tentative schedules drawn on the basis of
available data and past similar experiences. The schedule which gives maximum total
benefits for the various design purposes, without encroaching upon the lower or upper
limits of storage, is accepted for estimation and for initial operations. This schedule may
be tried and further modified on the basis of the past experience and future needs.
A multipurpose reservoir constructed on a perennial snow fed river in North India
(such as Bhakra reservoir) can be operated on the following lines :
Fig. 18.19 shows the typical schedule of operations for such a reservoir. The
reservoir water will normally fluctuate between minimum pool level and normal pool
level (i.e. maximum conservation level) for satisfying irrigation needs. The minimum
pool level will ensure the generation offirmpo\Ver, asthewatetlevffsliall riotifr>fmaIIY--
- ---i
MIN HEAOFO~
POWER
TAIL WATER
CAPAC I TY FOR HYDRO POWER
Fig. 18.19.
be allowed to go below the minimum pool level. Any serious flood which may occur
after the reservoir is full, shall be absorbed between the normal pool level and the
miximum pool level, at all times. As soon as the water level reaches the normal pool
level, the spillway will start functioning. But the rate of water discharged over the
spillway shall be in accordance with the downstream safe carrying capacity of the
channel, and hence, may be less than the rate of inflow. The water shall, then, be stored
temporarily between the normal pool level and the maximum reservoir level, and dis-
charged at a safe rate. As the flood subsides, and the excess water goes out slowly, the
water level will again fall up to the normal pool level, and the reservoir will be ready
to absorb another flood.
For irrigation, we generally require water from April to June for Kharif crops, and
from middle of November to middle of February for Rabi crops. There are heavy rains
during monsoon period of say June to middle of October. At the start of the monsoon
season, the reservoir is quite depleted because of heavy outflow for Kharif crops and
constant release for power generation. Thus, just before the monsoon, a large reservoir
capacity is available, which not only conserves the water but also serves to control floods
that may occur at this time. During the monsoon, the irrigation demand will almost be
nil and water shall be released only for power generation. The reservoir level will,
th~i:efore, go on increasing steadily and will be allowed to go up to the normal pool
level by the end of normal monsoon season, say middle of October. Any untimely flood
occurring after the reservoir is full up to normal pool level, shall be absorbed between
normal pool level and the maximum reservoir level, as explained earlier.
After the monsoon is over, the inflow is considerably reduced (almost nil) and water
is constantly drawn for Rabi crops and power generation. Due to this, the reservoir level
goes on falling up to about middle of February, when it is usually the lowest, somewhere
near the minimum pool level (i.e. dead storage level). At this time, snow starts melting
in the head reaches of the river, which augments the river discharge. Some winter
cyclonic rains during December and January may also be helpful in augmenting the
reservoir storage. From February-March onwards, there are large supplies due to melting·.·
of snow, and an equal burden is to be absorbed by the reservoir for satisfying the Kharif
irrigation withdrawals. Thus, during April, May and June, the reservoir level may rise
--or fall slightly at· slow· rate; iffid-actffe° start of monsoon, i.e. at the end o( June or
beginning of July, the reservoir will be quite depleted and prepared for full replenish-
ment of its supplies.
FLOOD ROUTING OR FLOOD ABSORPTION

The hydrograph of a flood entering a reservoir, will change in shape as it emerges
out of the reservoir, because certain volume of its water is stored in the reservoir
temporarily and is let off as the flood subsides. The base of the hydrograph, therefore,
gets broadened, its peak gets reduced, and, of course, the time of peak is delayed. The
extent by which the inflow hydrograph gets modified due to the reservoir storage can
be computed by a process known as flood routing, and more particularly as reservoir
routing (to differentiate it from routing though 'river channels').
-'--- Since the flood protection reservoirs are generally located many kffi upstre~m of
the cities which are to be saved against floods, it is sometimes necessary to route the
outflow hydrograph of the reservoirs up to these downstream localities. The reservoir
outflow hydrograph may then be routed through this much length of river channel, so
as to obtain the final shape of the hydrograph at the affected cities. This routing, in
which the stream itself acts like an elongated reservoir, is known as channel routing or
river routing.
A variety of routing methods are available, and they can be broadly classified into
~wo categories, viz
(i) hydrologic routing ; and

(ii) hydraulic routing
Hydro logic routing methods employ essentially the equation of continuity ; whereas
the hydraulic routing methods employ the continuity equation together with the equation
of motion of unsteady flow. The basic differential equations used in hydraulic routing
are popularly known as St. Venant equations, and afford a better description of the
unsteady flow than the hydrologic methods. We shall, however, cofine ourselves in the
book to the hydrologic methods only.
I
18.11. Hydrologic Reservoir Routing Methocls
The passage of a flood wave through a reservoir or a river reach is an unsteady flow
phenomenon. In hydraulics, we classify it as a gradually varied flow. The equation of
continuity used in all the hydrologic routing methods, as the primary equation, states
that the difference between the_inflow and the outflow rate is equal to the rate of change
of storage ; i.e.
1-0=~ ... (18.9)

I= Inflow rate
where
0 =Outflow rate
S= Storage
Alternatively, in a small time interval !!.t, the difference between the total inflow
volume and the total outflow volume is equal to the change in storage volume ; viz.
IM OM =!!.S ... (18.10)
· (lnflowvolume) (Ouflowvol.)
/(v) ·O(v)
-
c-c---..,where -l=Averageinflow(rate)-intime=!!.J==
0 =Average outflow (rate) in time !!.t
!!.S = change in storage during the time !!.t
Since I= 11 +12.
2 '
o= 01 +02.
2 '
!!.S=S2-S1;
where suffixes 1 and 2 denote the beginning and the
end of the time interval !!.t.
"- - ---.--- -r/1;-1~-!l;=t~i ~-02)

Eq. (18.10) can then be written as:
!!.;= Si =-s~----- _c_ ·-·===------- - _c_ =- __c __ -~~is~m-
The time interval !!.t should be sufficiently short, so that the inflow and outflow
hydrographs can be assumed to be in straight line, in that time interval. Moreover, !!.t
must be shorter than the 'time of transit of the flood wave through the reservoir or the
given river reach.
The above relationship seems to be very simple, but its evaluation is not easily
possible without drastic simplifying assumptions. This is because of the fact that the
relations between time and rate of inflow, elevation and storage of reservoir, and
elevation and rate of outflow, cannot be expressed by simple algebraic equations. They
are, respectively represented by th~ inflow flood hydrograph, the. elevation-storage
curve, and the outflow-elevation curve. The first two curves obviously cannot be repre-
sented by any simple equations, and the third may be represented by the spillway-dis-
charge equation (Q = 1.71 LH312 ) only if, the discharge through the outlets is neglected.
If the discharge though the outlets is also not neglected, then all the three curves will
be unamenable to simple mathematical treatment, without drastic assumptions.
Several procedures have, however, been suggested by different investigators to
solve the above basic equation (Eq. 18.ll)by rearranging the components in different
manners. Depending upon the different procedures adopted for solving the above basic
equation, the following hydrologic methods may be used for reservoir routing :
( 1) Trial and Error method
(2) Modified Pul's method or Storage indication method; and
(3) Goodrich method.
The first method is discussed here, while the detailed description of other methods
is available in authors another book titled "Hydrology and Water Resources Engineer-
ing" and may be referred to in specific needs.
18.11.1. Trial and Error Method of Reservoir Routing. Trial and Error method
is widely adopted with the assistance of computers to reduce the time taken in long
calculations involved in this method. This method arranges the basic routing equation
(Eq. 18.11), as follows:
... (18.11 a)
The procedure involves assuming of a particular level in the rese,rvoir at the end of
the interval /H, and computing the values on the right side of the a~ove Eq. (18.11 a).
--- The su~mation of 01 ; 02
·At and (S2 -.5\) is then compa;ed with the known value of
11 +12
- - ·At. If the two values tally, then the assumed reservoir elevation at the end of
2
the interval is supposed to be O.K. ; otherwise this is changed, and the process is
repeated till the required matching is obtained.
This method gives quite reliable results, provided the chosen time interval (At) is
sufficiently small, so that the mean of the outflow rates at the start and the end of the
given interval may be taken as the average throughout the interval.
Procedure : The following detailed procedure may be adopted in this method, to
complete the involved computations :
Data to be given : (i) the inflow hydrograph _
-- - (ii) EICvation capacity curve or Elevation area curve
(iii) Elevation outflow curve.
Steps involved in computations
(i) Divide the inflow flood hydrograph into a number of small intervals. The time
interval should be so chosen, as not to miss the peak values.
(ii) Fix the normal pool level at which the spillway crest is provided, and the level
at which the flood enters the reservoir ; the two are generally taken to be the same, as
l"
I
it is assumed that this worst design flood enters the reservoir only after the reservoir is
full up to the normal pool level.
(iii) Work out the spillway and the outlet discharge rating curves, if not given.
(iv) Work out the elevation-capacity curve for the reservoir from the elevation-area
curve, if the former is not given, using cone formula, i.e. V =1: ~ [ A1 + A2 + "1A 1A2 }
where his the contour interval. (18.12)
, (v) Start with the first interval and compute the t-citaTinflow during the interval hy
multiplying the average inflow rate at the beginning and the end of the interval, with
the period of the interval.
le VJ =-Ii+2 -/2 (Li t).

where 1 1 = Inflow rate at the start of the interval
/ 2 = Inflow rate at the end of the interval
Li t = Duration of the interval

Icv> = Total inflow volume during the interval.
(vi) The reservoir level at the start of the flood (i.e. start of first interval) is known.
Assume a trial value for the reservoir level at the end of the interval.
(vii) compute the total outflow during the interval
(ix) Add the volume of outflow O(V) obtained in step (vii) to the values of M
obtained in step (viii), and compare it with the inflow volume /<VJ• calculated in step (v).
The two values must be equal (i.e. l(VJ =OcVJ + LiS). If this is so~ the assumed reservoir
level is correct, otherwise, change it and repeat the procedure till this coincidence is
obtained. ,,
(x) All the above steps should be repeated for other time intervals, tin the entire I
flood is routed or still further, till the reservoir level returns to pre-flood pool level.
(xi) Outflow ordinates are plotted so as to obtain the outflow hydro graph. The point
at which it crosses the inflow hydrograph gives the peak outflow rate. From this time,
the rate of outflow begins to fall due to decrease irithe inflow rate.
(xii) The time lag between .the two peaks is evaluated as to give the time lag.
An example has been solved to make the procedure very clear.

Example 18.13. The inflow flopd discharges for a possible worstflood are tabu-
lated in Table 18.22 _atsuitable intervals starting from 0.00 hours on· august 20, 1975.
Table 18.22
Time from
0 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 51 60 66 78 90 102 114
start in hr
Dis-
charge in 0 50 280 610 1290 1900 2130 1900 1600 1440 1060 780 500 370 220 130
cumecs
This flood approaches a reservoir with an uncontrolled spillway, the crest of which
is kept at RL 140.0 m. Determine the maximum reservoir level and the hydrograph of
the routed flood. Values of reservoir capacity1 (above spillway crest) and outflow dis-
charge at various elevations are tabulated in Tables 18.23 and 18.24 respectively.
Table 18.23
·Elevation in metres 140.0 141.0 142.0 143.0 144.0 145.0 146.0
Reservoir storage with

·-
spillway crest iis.datum in_ 0.0 - - 15.0 _J5.o. __ ... 6o.o___ - -95.0---- ---140.0_ --· -240.0
million cubic metres (m.c.m.)
Table 18.24
Elevation Outflow discharge in cumecs
140.0 0.
141.0 170
142.0 482
143.0 883
144.0 l,360
145.0 l,905
146.0 2,500
Solution. The elevation storage curve and the elevation outflow curve are plotted
with the help of Tables 18.23 and 18.24, as shown in Fig. 18.20 and 18.21 respectively.
The hydrograph of the given flood i.s plotted in Fig. 18.22. Flood routing is carried out
by hit and trial method as shown in Table 18.25 and· as explained earlier. This table is
otherwise self-explanatory.
T
'
Elevation storage curve

'
I 146
I\ \
I\_..;- --- --- --
~145 , ..
- 1-
"1
E 144 ,·
... .,..~
.-c _.,.. .,..

~
c
143 ./
0 ,, ./
"0142
>
t.I I/
w 141
JL.OO
v 20 40 60 80 JOO 120 140 160 180 200 220 240
Reservoir capacity in millions cubic metres
(Above spillway er est) .,..
Fig. 18.20. Elevation Storage curve for example 18.13.
~t
0
Elevation outflow curve
': 146"0
.:i
\{)
[........-'"
.:: 14SO
_v v""
-
0
>
~ 144·0
V\
...
!:>I
_ 143-0
,,,.. v ~
0
/
V""
CJ42·0
0 v
.,.....
I/
v
0
> 141·0
l:>I
w1400 I I I
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 lGOO 1800 2000 2200 2400
Discharge through spillway in cumecs ~
-----------------'---
Fig. 18.21. Elevation-Outflow curve for example 18.13.
The outflow hydrograph is plotted from col. (7) of table 18.25, as shown in Fig.
18.22 by the dotted curve. The point at which it intersects the inflow hydrograph,
represents the peak of the routed flood.
The peak of outflow flood works out to be 1458 cumecs, while the peak of the
inflow flood was 2,130 cumecs. The time lag is found to be 15 hours (from Fig. 18.22).
The maximum reservoir level is found from Table 18.25, to be 144.18 metres. Ans.
0 ::i:: ......,
I 0 .:::: Time from start
-°'
::i::
°' 0 ~ Time interval (.6.t)
-
~
0
0
3 :s Reservoir elevation at the
beginning of interval
-
0
st.W ~I~ lnfiow at. the start of interval
0 ;;;-- av
-
I nfiow at the end ofinterval
;;;--~
3
v.
0 ~IS av
-
0
v.
~
s~.... ... ,....... ~
Volume of infiow during the
ai
interval l(V) = +Iv 12
-
p
0
3...,
;;;-- -c 131 Outflow at the start of
interval (0 J)
---
~ :; ......, Trial reservoir elevation at
0
0w
-
p 3 ~
the end of interval.
--··-
-t-
0 v.
3..., C-1~ Outflow at the end of =3
Oo
00 ~ (;;- N '-
~nterval (Ov O"
;'
--- ~
00
0 0
~ c 1-::: Mean outflow volume 0(V)=
~
0 ~ a.... s ~ {(OJ+ Ovl2]M
...,
~~ a..., ....... ,
p - == ~ ,.. c., .... .Storage capacity at start of
! I
0 ~~~ 0 - ...Cl '- interval (SJ)
S...,'< 2.
--
-
.
p
v.
N N
~
3..,
c., 1-:::
~
Storage capacity at the end
v. w of interval (Sv
-
p c;;
v. ~t> ,...
. "
N
I
1-:::
,_.,
Change in storage during
N t..> 3J:J. ~ '- the interval (.6.8) = (S2 - SJ)
v.
-
c
p
~:s 1-::: Outfiow volume + change in
v.
w N
"' s"'I>+ ~ storage; i.e. 0(VJ + M
~v.
~~~~~~~~~~~1-~1-~~~~~~~~~~~~~--1-
c.,
r
!J
-
if .,"
0
30
"'°"
(;)"
-
el~
c ~ ,. . . .
0 S'. g_
~a if
~ ~ s+('I)
c....., ....
Compare 0(V) + M with l(V),
i.e. col. (14) with col. (6) and
. < Cl
e.8 s8t>g-~ Remarks
~ g.
§
s..... .,~::::::'°""' ....
§l ~
a
~P6 S'MIOA'M3Sffi£ WVO'MO.!:[ DNINN\lld ON\/ S~IOA'M3Sffi£
Table 18.25 (Contd.) "[?.
( 1) (2)
'
(l) (4) (5) (6). (7) (8) (9) (JO) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15)
°'
6-12 'ii 140i03 50 280 3.56 . 0.88 140.3 28.7 0.31 0.525 4.0 3.475 3.785 large
I 140.25 21.2 0.23 " 3.85 3.325 3.555 O.K.
12cl8 6 140i25 280 610 .9.62 .21.2 140.5 60.0 0.88 3.85 8.0 4.15 5.03 small
I
.I.?'
I 141.0 170.0 2.06 " 15.0 11.15 13.21 large
I
140.8 121.6 1.54 " 13.0
i 9.15 10.69 large
I 140.75 110.2 1.42 " 12.05 8.20 9.62 O.K.
18-24 6 140:75 610 1290 20.5 110.2 141.5 312.2 4.57 12.05 26.0 13.95 18.52 small
! 141.6 343.0 4.89 " 27.7 15.65 20.54 O.K. :;;
:;.:i
24-30 6 141f06 1290 1900 34.4 343.0 142.5 672 . 10.95 . 27.7 47.0 19.3 30.25 small 0
>
i 142.6 713 ::::l
i 11.4 " 50.0 22.3 33.7 small
142.63 725
~
11.52 " 50,5 22.8 34.32 O.K.
30-36 6 142j63 1900 .2130 43.6 . 725 143.5 1113 19.85 50.5 76.0 ·. 25.5 45.35 large ~
I
143.4
143.45
1065
1087
19.23
19.55
...
"
73.0
74.5
. 22;5
24.0
41.73
43.55
small
O.K.
iz
Q
36-42 6 143.45 2130 1900 :43.6 1087 '• 144.0 1360 26.44 74.5 95.0 >
I . 143.95 J335 26.16 " 92:0
. 20.5
17.5
46.94
43.65
large
O.K.
a
::i::
42-48 6 143.95 1900 1600 37.8 1335 .·. . 144.5
><
,.
1620 13.9 92.0 115.0 23.0 64.9. large ~
144.2 1461 30.2 " 102.0 10.0 40.2
>
~
.large
144.15 1435 29.9 " 100.0 8.0 37.9 O.K. . (/l
.... contd ~
c:::
()
i
. ··~-- --- ~ - - - ·-~--·
-J
.,I
! ~
~
ifable 18.25 (Contd.) <
0
; I :;;;
!
en
(I) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) r7J (8) (9) (JO) (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) >
:1 , s
48-51 3 144.15 1600 1440 16.4 1435
I
114.18 1458* 15.5 100.0 101.0 1.0 16.5 O.K.
~
51-60 9 144.1.8* 1440 1060 40.5
"'
1458*
i
144.10 1410 46.5 101.0 98.0 -3.0 43.5 large
~
I,
;\ 144.05 1385 46.1 " 95.5 : -5.0 41.1 O.K. ~

60-66 6 I44.q5 1060 780 19.9 1385
:
143.8 1258 28.5 95.5 87.0 '-8.5 20.0 O.K. ~
I
·l
.,:,
66-78 12 143.8.0 780 500 27.8 12~8 142.2 974 48.2 87.0 67.0 -20.0 28.2 O.K.
I l
:;;
78-90 12 143.20 500 370 . 18.8 97~ 142.60 713 35.4 67.0 50.0 -17.0 18.4 O.K. en
90-102 12 i42.60 370 220 12.7 713' 142.0 482 25.8 50.0 35.0 -15.0 10.8 small
I
I
142.08 510 26.5 36.2 -13.8 12.7 O.K.
*Results : Peak rate of outflow ;,;, 1,458 cumec~

Maximum reservoir level =,1144.18 metres
Time lag = 15 hours
,;1
'f
"
~=~
--- - - .
-. ----~~~~
~t
I I I I Peak=2130 cumecs
Inflow
hydrograph lag=15 hours'
:::> r. .-- Ti me
u 220 0
t: "' ~ ,. \ I
I
~ 1800 .
_,
0 J \ I ~ Pt:ak=1458cumecs
~ 1400 I ~ ~" I I I
......
-~ 1000
' J
/ \.
... ..........
v- Routed 1outflow ,___
hydrograph
-
I I ·~ r-,
w J
~ 600 I ""' "- ....
...........
--
I I>-
:I:
u ,.. J
/
</) 2 00
0 ~V, ~-'
0 6 18 30 42 54 66 78 90 102 114
TIME IN HOURS ·---i.._._
Fig. 18.22. Hydrograph of the given flood and
that of the routed flood for example 18.10.
Example 18.. 14. The hydrograph of inflow to a reservoir is given in the table below.
Time(days) 0 2 4 6 8 JO 12 14 16 18 20
3
Flow(m /s) 60 115 425 550 440 320 260 200 150 110 60
The reservoir is full at the start of the flood inflow. The storage S of reservoir above
the spillway crest, is given in million cubic metres by : S =8.64 h, where h is the head
.in metres abov_e. the crest. The discharge over the spillway is given in cumecs.b~-c-~
.Q =60 h. Find the head over the spillway crest at the end of 8th day of the flood.
Solution. Let h 1 be the head over the spillway crest at the end of 2 days ; hi at the
end of 4 days ; h3 at the end of 6 days ; and h4 at the end of 8 days. Now we will consider
the position, interval by interval.
(i) 0-2 day interval
Inflow 11 = 60 cumecs.
.. 1,:: (; ;cJ,}=(60 ~
15
115
) 2 x (24 x 60_x_60) m3 = 15.12 M.m3
- - - - Out.flow--0
1
~ o · - -- - - -·- - -- - -
02=60h1
+ 02
OcV> =
01
2
( 60h1)
l- 3 3
. · t = - x 2 x (24 x 60 x 60) m =5.184 h 1 M.m .
2
Storage S 1 =0
S2 =8.64 h 1 M.m
3
·t:.S =8.64 h1
"'"1 1 1
I q
i
i
I

Now using I<V> = O<V) + !:J.S, we get
15.12=5.184h1 +8.64h1 or 15.12 = 13.824 hl
15.12
h 1 = l3. = 1.093 m.
824
(ii) 2-4 day interval -
Inflow I 1 = 115 cumecs ; lz = 425 cumecs
AV)= (
115
;
425
)2 x 86400~m3 =46.656Mm3. - --
Outflow 0 1 = 60 h1 ; 02 = 60 h2
60h1 + 60h2) 3 3
O<V> = 2 x (86400) m = (h 1 +h2)x5.184Mm.
( 2
Storage S 1 = 8.64 h1 -; S2 = 8.64 hz
!:l.S = 8.64 (h2 - hl)
Using IcV> = O<V> + !:J.S, we get
46.656 = (h1 +hi) 5.184 + 8.64 (h2 - hl)
Using h 1 = 1.093 m, we get
46.656 = 5.666 + 5.184 h2 + 8.64 h2 - 9.443
or 50.433= 13.824h2 or h2 =3.648m.
(iii) 4-6 day interval
Inflow I1 = 425 cumecs ; I 2 = 550 cumecs
425+550 3 3
•• I(V) = x 2 x 86400m = 84.24M.m.
2
Outflow -0 1=60h2 ; 02 = 60h3-
- 60h2 + 60h3 3 3
O<V> = x 2 x 86400m = (h2 + h3) 5.184M.m.
2
Storage S 1 = 8.64h2 ; S2. = 8.64h3
!:l.S = 8.64 (h3 - hi)
Using I(V) = o(V) + !:l.S, we get --
84.24= (h2 +h3) 5.184+ 8.64 (h3-h2)
Using h2 = 3.648 min this eqn., we get
&4.24 = 18.911+5.184 h3 + 8.64 h3- 31.518
96.848=13.824h3 .. h3 =7.00m.
(iv) 6-8 day interval.
c1nflow· - -11=·550-cumecs· ;1:f=440cumecscc__ -_c - -
c_ _ _
550 + 440) . 3. 3
I(V) = 2 (86400) M.m = 85.536 M.m .
( 2
Outflow 0 1 =60 h3 ; 0 2 = 60 h4 ·
60h3 + 60h4 3 3
O<V> = . x 2 x 86400m = (h3 + h4) 5.184M.m.
2
Storage S 1 = 8.64 h3 ; S2 = 8.64 h4
!:J.S =S2 - S1 =8.64 (h 4 - h3)
Using h3 = 7.00 min this eqn., we get

85~536 = 36.288 + 5.184 h4 + 8.64 h4 - 60.48
or 109.728= 13.824h4 or h4=1.94m.

Hence, the head over the spillway crest at the end of the 8th day = 7.94 m. Ans.
Example 18.15. A small reservoir has an area of 5000 hectares (50 x 106 m 2) at
spillway crest level. Banks are essentially vertical above the spillway crest level. The
spillway is 50 m long and has-a coefficient C o/2.2 in equatiqn q =QH312 • The inflow
to the reservoir is given in the table below :
Time from start (hrs.) 0 6 12 24 30 36 42 48 54

3
Inflow (m /s) 40 340 722 320 192 118 80 56 40
Compute the maximum outflow discharge over the spillway; and the reservoir-level
to be expected if the reservoir level was at the spillway crest at the start.
(Bhopal University, 1980)
Solution. As done in example 18.11, let us assume that the head over the spillway
crest at the end of the various intervals be h 1, h2, h3 , h4 metres. Then
· For interval 0-6 hr.
Inflow 11 = 40 cumecs ; 12 = 340 cumecs
IcVJ = 40+340) (6 x 60x 60) m3 =4.104M.m3 •

( 2
Outflow 0 1 =
o: :(~,~s~,)h'.~(J~~~~r}: 6~~·6: :;::~~w:~~~:~,~L c ~.

Storage S1 =b
S2 = (50 x 106) h 1 m3 • [ ·: Storage above the spillway is rectangular
= Area of the reservoir x ht. of water]
M=50h1 M.m 3•
Now, using lcVJ= OcVJ+M, we have
4.104= 1.19 hjl1+50h 1 or h1312 +42h1 -3.45=0
Solving by hiCand trial, we get
h 1 =0.082m.
___-:::_:.
_:: --~-_:_.:_ -· --
___:._ _____ Forinfervaf6=-f2-lir:-- -- ·--
340 722 3 3
lcVJ = ( ; }6 x 60 x 60) m = 11.47 M.m
110 h312 312
1 + 110 h2 12
· (6 X 60 X 60) m = (hjl1 + h~ ) 1.19 M.m
3 3
O(V) =
2
M =50 (h2 -
h1) M.m3
11.47 = 1.19 (hf 12 + hY2) + 50(h2 - h1)
Using h 1 = 0.082, we have
9.65 = 0.02+ hr+42h2-3.44 or 13.07=hr+42h2.
· or hr+ 42h2 -13.01 = o h2 =0.31m.
For interval 12-24 hr.
722 320 3
Inflow !(VJ= ( ; J(l2 x 60 x 60) m3 = 22.51 M.m
Outflow 0 1 =110 h~12 ; 0 2 = 110 hr

110 (h3/2
2 + h312)
3
O<V) = x (12 x 60 x 60) m3 = 2.38 (hr+ hr) M.m3
2
Storage S1 =50hi,
!J.S = 50 (h 3 - h 2)
I<V> = o(V) + tJ.S.
22.51=2.38 (h~12 +hr)+ 5o (h3 - h1)
Using h 2 = 0.31 m, we have
9.46 = o.i1+hr+12.2 h3 - 3.78
13.01 =hr+ 12.2 h3.

or hjl2 + 12.2 h3 - 13.07 = 0 h 3 =0.99m.
For interval 24-30 hr.
.· (320+ 192J . 3 3
ln~ow-:--: l<i:>._~ . 2 ... (6 x 60 x 60) m = 5.53 M.m
110 (h3/2
3 + h3/2)
4
Outflow o<V) = (6 x 60 x 60) = 1.19 (hr+ hr1)
2
tJ.S = 50 (h4 - h3)
I<V) = O<V) + M.
or 4.65 = (hf1+hY1)+9.04 {'1,4 - h3)

Using h3 = 0.99. we have
4.65 = 0.99 + hY2 + 9.04 h4 - 8.95
- - O.L. .. h~(2 c+ 9 .04h4---l.2.61-=0---~.'.--····--··'h;4 --=1:.24-m.-·------'c..::_ --- ~--
For interval 30-:--36 hr.
/(V) = 192+ 118) (6 x 60 x 60) m3 = 3.35 M.m3.

( 2
2
o<V) = 1.19 <1iY + hY1)
M =50 (hs - h4)
3.35,,;, 1.19 (hY1+ hY1) + 50 (h5-h4)
or 2.81 = (hf 2 + hf1) + 42 (hs ~ h4 )

Using h4 = 1.24 m, we get
2.81=1.38 +hf2+42h5 -52.08
or hr1+42h5 - 50.65 = 0 h5 =1.17m
Since h5 < h4 , it means that the head has started reducing, reaching its max. value
of 1.24 m.
:. max. outflow discharge over the spillway
= 110 (1.24) 312 cumecs.= 151.8 cumecs. Ans.
and, the max. reservoir level will be 1.24 m higher than the spillway crest level, which
cannot be worked out as the spillway crest level is not given. Ans.
\
RESERVOIR REGULATION
18.12. Rule Curves and Operating Tables for Reservoirs
Multipurpose reservoirs need to be operated and regulated efficiently with a high
degree of intelligence, intuition, and ·experience, in order to ensure that they are neither
_ .. left partially empty by the end of the rainy season, nor they are found full at the time of
arrival of a --series of peak floods, leading to heavy releases, causing floods in the
downstream valley.
Reservoir regulation committees, consisting of experts are, therefore, generally
constituted to ensure issue of proper and timely directives to the staff operating the gated
openings of the reservoir, to avoid any bad and inefficient operations.
--- ------ - --- -- ---- - - - - - -
.Guiding tablei-and curves,-caffod rule curves ·o~- g;ide curves, are drawn in
advance, and kept ready for use for the efficient regulation of the reservoir waters, with
time. Such guiding curves are normally required only for the flood season, because for
the. rest of the year, the reservoir will only discharge water for irrigation.and hydel needs.
Sometimes, reservoir.regulation manuals are also prepared and made available to .the
officers, dealing with the operation of the gates of the reservoir. Such manuals provide
· guidelines for gate operations, and for the overall maintenance and upkeep of the dam
and the reservoir.
A rule curve, either in tabular or graphical form, as framed by the experts on the basis
of the past data, broadly reflects the maximum reservoir levels to be achieved by the different
dates of the rainy season. Such a curve, therefore, reflects the vacant space to be left in the
reservoir on different dates or weeks ofthe rainy season.. Such guides Il!!lY have to be revise_d____
--'-from-time--to-time;-;based-on-rheirperformance<lunngtlleir actuafuse:-···---- -- ---
A typical set of such rule curves (tabular form) being followed for the operation of
Hirakud dam reservoir* are shown in table 18.26 (a) and (b).
• Hirakud dam is constructed on Mahanadi river is Orissa State of India It is 3 mile long composite dam,
with max. height of 200 ft. Spillway capai:ity at FRL of 630' is 14.83 lakh cusecs. It intercepts a catclunent of
32,200 sq. miles, and the catchment below the dam and up to the head of delta, i.e. Naraj, is about 18,000 sq.
miles. There is rio flood reserve or conservation reserve as such, and it is a general use reservoir. The river
capacity at Naraj is about 9 lakh cusecs.
Table 18.26 (a) Rule curve for filling the Hirakud
reservoir for conservation
Permissible reservoir water level

Date of the year
(Dead storage RL=590ft)
11th August (on and upto) 600'
21st August .605' .
1st September 617'
I Ith September 623'
21st September 627'
I st October (on and after) 630' (F.R.L.)
Table 18.26 (b) Rule curve for flood releases

(under ordinary circumstances) for Hirakud dam reservoir
Range of levels Permissible outflow Safe depletion rate

RL inft in lakh cusecs in lakh cusecs
600-610 2.5 4.0
610-615 3.0
615-620 4.0
620-625 4.5
.. 625 ~·628' . 5.5
628-630 6.5
Prior to the above rules, Hirakud dam reservoir was following another set of rules,
as given in table 18.27, which proved to be inadequate, leading to insufficient storage
at the end of flood seasons for some of the years, and heavy discharges from the reservoir
synchronising with floods in the lower catchment in some other years.
Table 18.27. Old Rules, specified in the Manual for
Operation of Hirakud reservoir, which have now been
superceded by rules of tables 18.21 (a) and (b)
S. No. of Rule Rule

--···-·········-,.,
-- .Rule F -'- c, - '-'-"-There-shouI<tbe·no·fiiinTii:poirnoihg·imrstofSeptemo~iiil-norrriaTye~~i'lleentlre
inflow should be let out ; care being exercised that the combined discharge of reservoir
outflow and the runoff from the catchment below the dam does not exceed I 0 lakh cusecs
at Naraj. Generally, the inflow up to 5 lakh cusecs can be passed without hesitation. When
the inflow is more than 5 lakh cusecs, then the hydrometeorological conditions in the
lower catchment should be carefully studied and outflow determined.
Rule2 Safety of dam should be the prime consideration on and at every occasion when
floods are absorbed in the reservoir for purposes of moderating and regulating outflow
in the reservoir. A level of+ 625.0' should be deemed to be the safe level normally for
this purpose.
954 . IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
Another typical rule curve (graphical form), as drawn and used for Maithon dam
reservoir, under D. V. C. System•, is shown in Fig. 18.23. This operation schedule shows
that the reservoir, which will be quite depleted by the start of June, will be filled up
fully up to Monsoon storage level (RL 480'), latest by 3rd week of September, and will
be maintained full, till the end of November. The reservoir will be allowed to be depleted
only from December onward.
Any flood, which occurs during the last week of September, October and November,
will thus, find the reservoir full, and will have to be accommodated within the 'flood
reserve', i.e. between monsoon storage level (RL 480') and the max. permissible opera-
tional level of gates (RL 495').
Depending upon the intensity of the coming and likely floods after the reservoir is
full, the outflows will be regulated and so manipulated that the discharge from the
reservoir together with the discharge contributed by the downstream area, does not
exceed the safe carrying capacity of the river farther downstream. I
As and when a late flood enters the reservoir, the reservoir-gate-operators may
adjust the outflow to a lower value in the beginning, but may have to increase the
outflow, as the flood waves continue and the weather forecasts for continued rains are
received. In this operation, a stage may reach when the outflow may become quite high,
causing floods in the down valley.
While manipulating these outflows, chances of synchronisation of the discharge of
the downstream uncontrolled catchment will also have to be considered properly.
Say for example, if we release 1 lakh cusecs discharge from the reservoir, and
another 1 lakh cusecs gets added to it from the catchment of the downstream 1 km length
of the channel, then eventually 2 lakh cusecs will be flowing in the channel farther down
the 1 km length. This 2 lakh cusecs may prove quite harmful, as it may exceed the safe
carrying capacity of the downstream river (below 1 km).
Another possibility for gate operators could then be to release lesser discharge, say
50,000 cusecs, which with 1 km downstream contribution of 1 la1Cli cusecs, will make-----c 0
up 1,50,000 cusecs, which may not prove dangerous to farther down. But releasing lesser
quantity would cause the reservoir water level to rise rapidly, encroaching the 'flood
reserve' quickly, finally leading to a stage, wherein you may have to open the entire
gates, passing say 4 lakh cusecs, to avoid over-topping and failure of the dam. This 4
lakh cusecs will eventually destroy the entire downstream area, and may prove worser
than what would have happened, if 1 lakh cusecs would have been allowed in the
beginning itself. ·
You can, thus; understand and appreciate as to how important it is, to properly man
the outflows from a reservoir. The intelligent and timely manipulations, accompanied
by proper rain forecasts, may help us to avoid flooding of the downstream area.
* D.V.C. (Damodar Valley Corporation) was constituted in India in July, 1948, on the line of T.V.A.
_ _ _ jTennesse Valli;y_Authority) of USA. to~!!_l!_!!!!_<L<e~<;Cll_~<;_fl_o9~cS.()!!!!'0!.~2rks on_river Qa!lloc!_ar and i_t_s·_ _ _ _
tributaries, which had created havoc in the year 1943, causing serious flood losses of the order of Rs. 8 crores,
and cutting off the most important Calcutta city with the rest of the country for about ten weeks, due to breaches
in G.T. Road and Rly link.
Consequently, 4 dams were constructed, including the Maithon on river Damodar, Konar on river Konar,
and Panchat and Tallaiya on its tributary Barakar, along with a barrage at Durgapur (situated a few km
downstream of the confluence of Damodar and Barakar. Konar and Talliya are smaller dams located in the
upper reaches, whereas, Maithon and Panchat are bigger dams in lower reaches, bearing most of the flood
burden.
Maithon is located about 13 km above the confluence, and 21 km northwest of Asansol and 40 km east
of Dhanbad. Like Konar, it is partly earthen and partly of concrete. The primary purpose of the dam is flood
control; whereas, irrigation and hydropower are secondary purposes.
,,! ~
(/l
Top of rn
1
SOOi
r
_
Tpp of gates R.L. 500·.00
Mox' permissi ble oP.er~tion lev~l of gotesbecou:s~ land ho! not

1
,
bee~ I Guide durve for

1
Moitho~
, gates
RLSOO'j
Dom 1 -- -
:>J
<
0
~
(/l
1--~--+---->__, acquired upto to of gates : · ·
i ----- z>
T
T
ti
49Q I Flood fl
1l l I II •1 1I~0<mol
Flood reserve I >
z
Monsoon storoie level I z
4801 1480·0 I I R~ .4?0' pool leve z
Cl
_j
.~ 1
(5
!flushing dqse ' :>J
vi
~
.D
,~
"'>0 470~~i-1"'7 I ' I I1I I Spillway
~
~
:>J
rn
0 crest (/l
rn
c __,. I eve; :>J
0
460' <
·13 460FFF 0
>
w"'
''-Curve '6 Guide curve for drawd own
Total
l ~
(/l
I
I frl;:[ llTIU
conservation
st oroge
Reserve level to be maintained Reserve storage tn . ~ ....---...-
l=t4:=l=t=:.t==1 between curves .A & B conjunction with Ponchet -h
Dead storage level 43!{001 R.L.,
Juli Aug
j
Filling period
I Sep. r
I
1 ·
Oct Nov
1
I Dec
I Drowdown period
Jon I Feb Mor Apr May Jun
435
TM in.pool
level i.e.
Dead
storage
level
\0
Fig. 18.23. A typical operating guide for Maithon Dam Resei;voir. Vi
Vi
18.13. Reservoir Sedimentation

Every river carries certain amount of sediment load. The sediment particles try to
settle down to the river bottom due to the gravitational force, but may be kept in
__ suspension due to the upward currents in the turbulent flow which may overcome the
gravity force. Due to these reasons, the river carries fine sediment in suspension as
suspended load, and larger solids along the river bed as bed load. When the silt laiden
water reaches a reservoir in the vicinity of a dam, the velocity and the turbulence are
considerably reduced. The bigger suspended particles and most of the bed load, there-
fore, gets deposited in the head reaches of the reservoir. Fine particles may travel some
more distance and may finally deposit farther down in the reservoir, as shown in Fig.
18.24. Some very fine particles may remain in suspension for much longer period, and
may finally escape from the dam along with the water discharged through the
sluiceways, turbines, spillway, etc.
Turbid inflow
Water
surface
Lake
Fine
sediments Sluiceways
fig. 18.24. Sediment.accumulationinatypical-reservoir.- ··-·····--·

· The deposition of sediment in the reservoir is known as 'Reservoir Silting' or
'Reservoir Sedimentation'.
The deposition of the sediment will automatically reduce the water storing capacity
of the reservoir, and if this process of deposition continues longer, a stage is likely to
reach when the whole reservoir may get silted up and become useless .
.· Moreover, with the passage of time, the reservoir capacity will go on reducing. Thus, if
today at the time of construction, a reservoir can store 10,000 cubic metres of water, tQmorrow
say after five years, it may be able to store only say 8,000 cubic metres of water. Therefore, 1·
in order to see that the capacity does not fall short of requirement ever during the design period,
we must take this silting into account. The total volume of silt likely to be deposited during
1
the designed life period of the dam is, therefore, estimated ; and approximately that much of 1
volume is left unused to allow for silting, and is known as dead storage. The remainder is
known as the effective storage or the live storage. The dead storage generally vaje~ -~t\y~n____ .
--I-5Lo-·25o/o-oftlre-mta:l-capaciry:Fot-examp1e ilil3liilia dam~-tlie gross capaCiiy of the dam is
· 9,344 million cubic metres and the dead storage provided is 2,054 million cubic metres. All
1
the outlets fetching water from the reservoir are provided above the dead storage level. 1
The importance of this silting can be understood by considering the following example : /
Let the total capacity of a reservoir be 30 million cubic metres and the provision of ·
dead storage be 6 million cubic metres. Let the average volume of sediment deposition
be 0.15 million cubic metres per year. Then it is evident, that the dead storage will be
filled up in o.~5 =40 years, and the total storage in about 0~~5 = 200 years.
Hence, the usefulness of this reservoir would start reducing after 40 years, and after
200 years it would be nothing but a collection of sand and sediment with no water in it,
provided the siltation rate remains constant at 0.15 M.m 3/yr.
18.13.1. Density Currents. In a reservoir, the coarser sediment settles down along the
bottom of the reservoir, as the muddy flow approaches the reservoir; while the finer sediment
usually remains in suspension, and moves in a separate layer than the clear reservoir water, as
shown in Fig. 18.24. This layer of water, containing the fine sediment, mo~ es below the upper
clearer reservoir °"'(lter, as a density current, since its density is slightly more than the density
of the main body of the resei-Voir water. Because of their density difference, the water of the
density current does not mix easily with the reservoir water, and maintains its identity for a
considerable time. The density current can thus be removed through the dam sluiceways, if
they are located properly and at the levels of the density current. A lot of sediment load can,
thus, be passed out of the reservoir, if it is possible to locate the dam outlets and sluice ways in
such a fashion, as to vent out the density currents. Trap efficiency ofreservoirs may thus be
decreased by about 2 to 10%, if it is possible to vent such density currents through the outlets
and sluice ways of the dams.
,18.13.2. Trap Efficiency. Now, we introduce another very important term called
Trap efficiency. Trap efficiency is defined as the percentage of the sediment deposited
in the reservoir even inspite of taking precautions and measures to control its deposition.
Therefore, Trap Efficiency (11)
_ Total sediment deposited in the reservoir
... (18.13)
- Total sediment flowing in the river
Most of the reservoirs trap 95 to 100% of the sediment load flowing into them. Even
if various feasible silt control measures are adopted, it has not been possible to reduce
. this trap efficiency below 90%-or so; - · - -- - -
18.13.3. Capacity Inflow Ratio. The ratio of the reservoir capacity to the total inflow
of water in it, is known as the capacity-inflow ratio. It is a very important factor, because the
trap efficiency (11) has been found to be a function of capacity-inflow ratio i.e.
1(
~ = ~~:~tyI . · . .(18.14)
The ~aph obtained for ~e existing reservoirs between trap efficiency and log of
( ~:'fl~~y) has been found to be of the type shown in Fig. 18.25.
~!!100 ............. .
~~
z 80
~~
U::L
60
Es t.o
LU Vl
CAPACITY INFLOW RATIO (log) -

Fig. 18.25. I I
I
It is evident from the above curve, that if capacity reduces (with constant inflow),
trap efficiency reduces, and hence, lesser sediment is trapped. Therefore, the silting rate
in the reservoir shall be more in the beginning, and as its capacity reduces due to silting,
the silting rate will reduce. Hence, the complete reservoir-silting may take longer period.
It can also be concluded that for small reservoirs (having small capacity) on large
rivers (having large inflow rates), the trap efficiency is extremely low, because the
capacity inflow ratio is very small. Such reservoirs silt very little and most of their
sediment is passed downstream. On the other hand, large reservoirs on smaller rivers
shall silt tremendously and almost complete deposition of sediment may take place:
18.13.4. Silting of Power Reservoirs. In case of reservoirs constructed solely for
the purpose of power generation, the silting iS comparatively less important. This is
because of the fact, that for the proper and efficient functioning of a power reservoir,
only a certain minimum head is necessary. This head remains available even after some
silt gets deposited. So, only if sufficient water required for power generation remains
available, the reservoir's efficiency remains unaffected by-silting. But due to silted
water, the abrasion of the blades of the turbines may occur very soon, and power
production may be stopped over a considerable length of time.
18.13.5. Silting Control in Reservoirs. In order to increase the life of a reservoir,
it is necessary to control the deposition of sediment. Various measures are undertaken
in order to achieve this aim. The various methods which are adopted can be divided into
two parts :
(1) Pre-constructing measures ; and (2) Post-constructing measures.
These measures are discussed below :
(1) Pre-constructing measure. They are those measures which are adopted before
and during the execution of the project. They are innumerated below :
(a) Selection of Dam Site. The silting depends upon the amount of erosion from the
catchment. If the catchment is less erodible, the silting will be less. Hence, the silting
can be reduced by choosing the reservofr site fo such a waf as to exClude tne "fun off"-~-_-·
from the easily erodible catchment.
(b) Construction of the Dam in Stages. The design capacity plays an important role
in the silting of a reservoir. When the storage capacity is much less than the average
annual runoff entering the reservoir, a large amount of water will get out of the reservoir,
thereby, reducing the silting rate compared to what it would have been if the entire water
would have been stored. Therefore, the life of a reservoir can be prolonged by construct-
ing the dam in stages. In other words, first of all, the dam should be built lower, and
raised subsequently when some of its capacity gets silted up.
(c) Construction of Check Dams. The sediment inflow can be controlled by building
check dams across the river streams contributing major sediment load. These are smaller i
1
dams and trap large amounts of coarser sediments. They are quite expensive. 1
(d) Vegetation Screens. This is based on the principle that vegetations trap large
_._.__amountLof_s_edim_e_nt._The_~eg_et_atfon_growth is, therefore, pr:omoted at_the entrance_o_f_ _ _ _
the reservoir as well as in the catchment. These vegetative covers, through which flood
waters have to pass before entering the reservoirs, are known as vegetat_ion screens, and 1
provide a cheap and a good method of silt control. /
(e) Construction of Under-sluices in the Dam. The dam is provided with openings ,
1
in its base, so as to remove the more silted water on the downstream side.
The sediment concentration will be more at some levels than at others. Therefore,
sluices are located at the levels of higher sediment concentration. The method in itself,
is not sufficient because the water digs out a channel behind the sluice for movement
and leaves most of the sediment undisturbed. Therefore, this is simultaneously supple-
mented with mechanical loosening and scouring of the neighbouring sediment in order
to ii:icrease its effectiveness. But to provide iarge sluices near the bottom of the dam, is
again a structural problem. The use of this method is, therefore, limited.
(2) Post-constructing Measures. These measures are undertaken during the opera-
tion of the project. They are given below:
(1) Removal of Post Flood Water. The sediment content increases just after the
floods ; therefore, attempts are generally made not to collect this water. Hence, the
efforts should be made to remove the water entering the reservoir at this time.
(2) Mechanical Stirring of the Sediment. The deposited sediment is scoured and
disturbed by mechanical means, so as to keep it in a moving state, and thus, help in
pushing it towards the sluices.
(3) Erosion Control and Soil Conservation. This includes all those general methods which
are adopted to reduce erosion of soil and to make it more and more stable. This method is the
most effective method for controlling siltation, because when the soil erosion is reduced, the
sedimentation problem is reduced automatically. But the methods of treating the catclunent in
order to minimise erosion are very costly. It has been estimated that the investment required
for treating 16% of the Indian catclunent area is Rs. 1,000 crores. In India, only 1.5% of the
catclunent area has been treated to minimise silting.
Example 18.16. The following information is available regarding the relationship
between trap efficiency and capacity inflow ratio.
Capacity inflow ratio 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
Trap efficiency percent 87 93 95 95.5 96 96.5 97 ~ 97 97 97.5
Find the probable life of the reservoir with an initial reservoir capacity of 30 millton
cubic metres, if the average annual flood inflow is 60 million cubic metres and the
average annual sediment inflow is 2,00,000 tonnes. Assume a specific weight of the
sediment equal to 1.2 gm per c.c. The usual life of the reservoir will terminate when
80% of its initial capacity is filled with sediment.
Solution. ·
Average annual sediment inflow = 2,00;000 tonnes
= 2 x 105 tonnes= 2 x 10 11 gm
Volume of average annual sediment inflow
11 11
2 x 10 - 2 x 10 3
= 1.2 c.c. - 1.2 x 106 m
= ~:~ x 106 cubic metres =~million cubic metre = ~ M.m3

Initial Reservoir Capacity =30 M.m3
Annual flood inflow = 60 M.m3
Let us assume that 20% of the capacity, i.e. 6 M.m 3 is filled up in the first interval.
Capacity inflow ratio at the start of the interval = ~~ =0.5
Trap efffcienCy B.f die·-itai-IOf-the -iiitei·Va1·:-0~90-.- ---··-- ---·---- -- ------ - -------- -- -
Capacity inflow ratio at the end of the inte~val = ~~ =0.4

Trap efficiency at the end of interval = 0.955
. .
A verage trap e ffic1ency d urmg
. the mterva
. 1 = 0.96 + 0.955 = 0.9575 .
2
Volume of sediment deposited annually till the 20% capacity is filled
1 3
= '6 x 0.9575 M.m
:. No. of years during which 20% of the capacity, i.e. 6 M.m 3 shall be filled up
6 36
1
years= . = 37.6years
x 0.9575 0 .9575 ·
6
Similarly, in the 2nd interval
. m
Capacity . at the start= 24 = 04
. fl ow rat10 .
60
18
. Capacity inflow ratio at the end = =0.3
60
Trap efficiency at the start =0.955
Trap efficiency at the end =0.95
Average trap efficiency . = 0.95.25.
:. No. of years during which the next 20% of capacity shall be filled up
6 36
= 1
= = 37 .8 years.
x 0.9525 0 .9525
6
Similarly, in the 3rd interval
18
. Capacity inflow ratio at start = 60 =0.3
Capacity inflow ratio at the end = !~ = 0.2

Trap efficiency at the start = 0.95
Trap efficiency at the end = 0.93
Average trap efficiency during the interval = 0.94
-------- ------ ·- ----·------· ·-----·-- ·--- ,, ______ ··----
No. of years during which the next 20% of the capacitjshaU be filled up
6 36
*
= x 0.94 = 0.94 = 38.3years.
Similarly, in the 4th interval

Capacity inflow ratio at the start= 12/60 = 0.2
Capacity inflow ratio at the end = 6160=0;1
Trap efficiency at the start = 0.93
Trap efficiency at the end = 0.87
Average trap efficiency during the interval = 0.90
-'---'--No;-of-years-during·which-the-next W%of-the-capacity shaH be filled ):Ip ·· --· · - - ------· ·! -
I
6 • 3'6
*
= x 0. 9 = 0. 9 = 40 years.
Total probable life till 80% capacity gets filled up

= 37.6+ 37.8 + 38.3+40.0=153.7years. Ans.
I
The above calculations of dividing the entire capacity into intervals (20% each in
the above case) can also be carried out in a tabular form, as shown below in Table 18.28.
Table 18.28
Cavacitv Sediment trapped Years reqd. to fill up
Trap Av. Trap per year; Col. (5) x · 20% capacity (6
Capacity/ inflow
Capacity efflci- ejf. Tlav Av. annual sediment Mcum.)
% Vol.inM.
cum.
=
Col. (2)
60Mcum
ency
11
during the
interval
inflow = Col. 5 x i - -6 -
Col. (6)
M.cum. in years
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
100 30 0.5 0.96
0.9575 - 0.1596 -- - 36.6
80 24 0.4 0.955
0.9525 0.1588 37.8
60 18 0.3 0.95
0.94 0.1566 38.3
40 12 0.2 0.93
0.90 0.15 40.0
20 0.1 0.8
:E = 153.7 vrs
Example 18.17. A proposed reservoir has a capacity of 500 ha-m. The catchment
area is 125 km 2 , and the annual streamflow averages 12 cm of runoff. If the annual
sediment production is 0.03 ha.mlkm2, what is the probable life of the reservoir before
its capacity is reduced by 10% of its initial capacity by sedimentation? The relationship
between trap efficiency T) (%) and capacity inflow ratio Cl!. is as under :
Cl! 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.7
43 60 74 80 84 87 93 95 96 97
(U.P.S.C., Civil Services, 1987)
Solution. Av. annual sfreamflow = 12 cmofrunoff
--Area:·orcafcfiiiieiit 'C- :cc:::: - -'c;; ·n5'krii2 ~'f25x ro 6'm.2·
:. Annual flood inflow = (125 x 106) · _g_

100
m3
= 15 x 106 m3 =15 M.m3 (Mcum).

Annual sediment inflow = 0.03 ha-mlkm2 of the catchment
= 0.03 x 125 ha-m = 0.03 x 125 x 104 m3 = 3.75 x 104 m3
= 3.75
100
x IO6 m-' = 0.0375 M-m3 (Mcum).
It means that 0.0375 Mcum of sediment flows every year into the dam/reservoir
site, but the quantum of this, which is trapped in the reservoir, depends upon the average
trap efficiency (T\) during that year, and this trap efficiency, in turn, depends upon the
capaci~y/inflow ~atio. _ ____ _ _ ~--- _ __ __ _
In the question, the total capacity to be filled up by sediment is 10% of the initial
reservoir capacity,
i.e. 10% x 5 Mcum = 0.5 Mcum.
Now, we have to calculate the time during which this 0.5 Mcum of sediment will
get deposited in the reservoir, as follows :
Capacity of the reservoir at the start = 5 Mcum
Capacity of the reservoir at the end
(i.e .. when 0.5 Mcum of sediment is filled up)= 4.5 Mcum
:. Capacity/inflow at the start=

5
15
~:u: - 0.333
11 at start= 95%. Capacity/inflow at the end = ~·; = 0.30

11 at the end of the interval = 95%. Average 11 = 95%
:. Sediment load trapped/yr.
= =
0.0375 x 95% 0.035625
:. No. of years during which 0.5 Mcum of sediment will get trapped
- = 0.0~;625 years = 14.04 years ; say 14 years.
Hence, after 14 years, 10% reservoir capacity will get filled up. Ans.
18.14. Estimating Sediment Load likely to Enter a Proposed Reservoir
The quantum of sediment flowing into a dam reservoir along with river runoff
primarily depends upon the erosion characteristics of its catchment and the charac-
teristics of the rainfalls that produce the run off entering the reservoir.
The sediment is basically produced by rains by the process of sheet erosion. The
flowing water is the most active agent for erosion of soil from the land. Other agents
like wind, gravity, ice and human activities do help in the erosion process. The rain
drops in itself, loosen the soil perticles and break the soil lumps. The action of flowing
sheet of water on the land surface helps in eroding the top soil from the ground surface
and transport it down to the channels. The erosion caused by rainfall and runoff, thus,
constitutes of the following two parts :
(1) Sheet erosion. It includes the detachment of geological material from the land
surface by the impact of raindrops, and its subsequent removal by overland flow; and
(2) Channel erosion. It includes river bank erosion and transportation of the
materials by concentrated flow.
Human activities, like overgrazing of grass land, cutting of forests, forest fires,
.Ploughing, of land, and various mining & other excavationsetc. have-magnified-,the------·
problem of water erosion in river channels.
18.14.1. Factors Affecting the Erodibility of a Soil. The factors which effect
the erodibility of a soil are given below :
(i) Particle size of soil. Larger the size of soil particles, the lesser would be its
chances for erosion. t ·. · .
(iz} Land slope. The greater is the land. slope, the greater is the action of erosive
agents, the optimum being at 40° slope.
(iiz) Vegetation. The-thicker is the vegetation cover over a soil, the lesser will be
the scope of erosion of the soil from the area.
(iv) Presence of Salt·and Colloidal Matter in the Soil. The binding materials
like kaolinite, montmorillonite, biotite, etc., do help in increasing the force
of.cohesion between the soil particles, ther.eby reducing the erodibility of the
-"---s-011-.---------------------------··-··--·.-·.-- -· -'··---·----- --------------··---·------ _ _ __
(v) Moisture Content of Soil. The greater is the·moisture content of the soil, the
lesser is the scope of its erosion.
(vi) Soil compaction. The higher is the compaction of soil, the lesser is the chance
of its erosion.
(viz) Soil Properties. The characteristics of the soil, such as soil texture, structure,
stratification, permeability, composition etc. d_o affect the soil binding, which in turn
will neutralise the force of weathering agents.
(viii) Human Activities. Human activities on the land like mining, agricultural operations,
construction of projects, land use, etc. do increase the erosion from the given land.
(ix) Rainfall characteristics. The intensity, duration, quantity and distribution of rainfall
over space and time are some of the important factors that affect sediment yield.
18.14.2. Estimation of Sheet Erosion. The sediment yield of a reservoir
basically depends on sheet erosion which can be estimated by the following
empirical equations :
(1) Musgrave Equation. Musgrave (1947) suggested the following equation to
compute the annual gross sheet erosion from a catchment, on the basis of 19 widely
scattered research stations in USA :
E =CR · ( S0/10 )1. 35 ( L/72 )o.3 5 ( P 3ofl.25 )1. 75 ... (18.15)
where E = Erosion of soil lost from the catchment in
inches/year
C = the soil erosion rate, which varies from
0.43 to 0.53 inch/year depending on the soil
type (which depends on texture and per-
meability of soil)
R = the cover factor, which varies from 0.95 for
poorly covered land to 0.10 for row crops
S0 = Land slope in percentage, the default ! !
being 10%
L = Length of the land slope in feet
P30 = The max. rainfall in inches having' 30 '
min. duration and of 2 year frequency.
It was also stipulated that the erosion value of E computed above, in inch/year, can
be multiplied by 150 to obtain the erosion value in ton/year/acre.
(2) Universal Equation. Agriculture Research Service ofU. S. Deptt. of Agriculture
_____ developed_a universal.equation (1961) to predict erosion from small catchments. This
universal equation is given as :
Ea= Rf' K -(LS) Cm· P ... (18.16)
where Ea= Average soil loss in ton/acre/year.
(i) Rf is Rainfall-run off factor. Its value takes into account the effect of rain
drop impact as well as the resulting amount and rate of run off. It should also
include the cumulative effects of many moderate sized storms as well as the
effects of occasional severe storms.
The value of Rf is generally taken as equal to EI (rainfall erosion index), which is
computed as :
E · l=EX/30 ... (18.17)
where E = storm energy in 100 ft-ton/acre/inch
- - .
ho= Max. 30-minute intensity in inch/hr.
The value of E is further computed as :
E=
1 ~0 [ 916+331 log/J ... (18.18)
where E = Storm energy in 100 ft-ton per acre per inch.
I= Storm intensity of the given storm with a
limit of 3 inch/hr, since median drop size
does not continue to grow beyond this limit.
I
I I
The EI value can, thus, be computed by eqn (18.17) for a given storm. For a
specified period, the individual storm EI values can be summed up, which provide
a numerical measure of the erosive potential of the rainfall within that period (one
year). In this manner, the average annual total of the storm EI values in a particular
area is obtained, which is called the rainfall-erosion index for that area, which
equals Rf"
(ii) K is Soil erodibility factor. Its value is determined experimentally for the
given soil type. Representative values for different types of soils have been
worked out and listed for different regions of USA by Soil Conservation
Service of USA, as shown in Table 18.29.
Table 18.29. Computed K Values for Soils on Erosion Research Stations
(After Wischmeier and Smith, 1978).
Soil Source of Data ComputedK
Dunkirm silt loam Geneva,N.Y 0.69a
Keene silt loam Zanesville, OH 0.48
Shelby loam Bethany, MO 0.41
Lodi loam Blacksburg, VA 0.39
Fayette silt loam LaCrosse, WI 0.38a
Cecil sandy clay loam Watkinsville, GA 0.36
Marshall silt loam Clarinda, IA 0.33
Ida silt loam Castana, IA 0.33
Mansic clay loam Hays, KS 0.32
Hagerstown silty clay loam State College, PA 0.31a
Austin clay Temple, TX 0.29
Mexico silt loam McCredie, MO 0.28
Honeoye silt loam Marcellus, NY 0.28a
Cecil sandy loam Clemson, SC 0.28a
Ontario loam Geneva, NY ·-· ------- 0.27". ...
Cecil clay loam Watkinsville, GA 0.26
Boswell fine sandy loam Tyler, TX 0.25
Cecil sandy loam Watkinsville, GA 0.23
Zaneis fine sandy loam Guthrie, OK 0.22
Tifton loamy sand Tifton, GA 0.10
Freehold loamy sand Marlboro, NJ 0.08
Blath flaggy silt loam with surface stones> 2 inches removed Arnot, NY 0.05a
Albia gravelly loam Beemerville, NJ 0.03
a Evaluated from continuous fallow. All others were computed from rowcrop data.
For soils containing less than 70% of silt and very fine sand, K can be computed as :
K=
1 ~0 [ 2.1 Ml.1
4
(10- 4) (12-a) + 3.25 (b-2) + 2.5 (c - 3) J ...(18.19)
where M = particle size parameter, defined as percent
- - - -- - -- -------- - - --- - - - sl.ti & very find sand- (size 6.1 rru:Il-6:C)()2- --·---
mm) times the quantity (100-percent clay)
a = percent organic matter
b = soil texture code used in USDA soil clas-
sification
c = profile permeability class
[Note : When the silt fraction does not exceed 70%, erodibility varies approximately as the
1.14 power of M, but addition of organic matter content, soil structure, and profile-
permeability class as done in Eqn. (18.19) improves the prediction accuracy.]
(iii) (LS) =Topographic Factor. It is the ratio of soil loss per unit area from a field slope
to that from a 72.6 ft length of uniform 9% slope under otherwise identical condi-
tions. For a specified slope and its length, LS can be computed as :
(LS)= (
7~ 6 J (65.41 sin2 e + 456 sine+ 0.065)
where 'A = slope length in ft

... (18.20)
e = angle of slope
. M = 0.5 if the per cent slope is 5 or more
m = 0.4 on slopes of 3.5 to 4.5%
m = 0.3 for slopes of 1 to 3%
m = 0.2 for uniform slopes of less than 1%.
(iv) Cm= Soil Cover and Management Factor. It measures the combined effect of all
inter-related cover and management variables, including the type of vegetation, plant
spacing, the stand, the quality of growth, crop sequence, tillage practices, crop
residues, incorporated residues, land use residues, fertility treatment, etc.
Values of Cm for pasture, range, idle land, and woodland for a combination of cover
conditions are given in Table 18.30.
Table 18.30. Factor Cm for permanent Pasture, Range, and Idle Land
(After Wischmeier and Smith 1978).
Vegetative canopy Cover that contracts the soil suiface
Percent 1-----+---~---~P_e_rc_e_nt_,g,_ro~u_n_d_c_ov_e_r_ _ _~---
Type and heigh/' coverc 0 20 40 50 80 95+
No appreciable G 0.45 0.20 0.10 0.042 0.013 0.003
canopy w 0.45 0.24 0.15 0.091 0.043 0.011
Tall weeds or 25 G 0.36 0.17 . 0.09 Q.038 0.013 0.003
short.brush w 0.36 0.1.0 0.13 0.083 0.041 0.011
with the average 50 G 0.26 0.13 0.07 0.035 0.120 0.003
drop fall w 0.26 0.16 0.11 0.076 0.039 0.001
height of 20 in. 75 G 0.17 0.10 0.06 0.032 0.011 0.003
w 0.17 0.12 0.09 0.068 0.038 0.011
Appreciable brush 25 G 0.40 0.18 0.09 0.040 0.013 0.003
or bushes, with the w 0.40 0.22 0.14 0.087 0.042 0.01 I
average drop 50 G 0.34 0.16 0.08 0.038 0.012 0.003
fall height of 6 Y2 ft w 0.34 0.19 0.13 0.082 0.042 0.011
75 G 0.28 0.14 0.08 0.036 0.012 0.003
w 0.28 0.17 0.12 0.078 0.040 0.011
Trees, but no 25 G 0.42 0.19 0.10 0.041 0.013 0.003
appreciable w 0.42 0.23 0.14 0.089 0.042 0.011
low brush 50 G 0.39 0.18 0.09 0.040 0.013 0.003
Average drop w 0.39 0.21 0.14 0.087 0.042 - •Q.011
· fiil11ieight · 75 ---G --- ·-o.3-6 - 0.17 0.09 ··0.039 ·· 0:012 0.003
of 13 ft w 0.36 0.20 0.13 0.084 o.041 o.oi 1
a The listed C values assume that the vegetation and mulch are randomly distributed over the entire area.
bCanopy height is measured as the average fall height of water drops falling from the canopy to the ground.
Canopy effect is inversely proportional to the drop fall height and is negligible if fall height exceeds 33 ft.
c Portion of total area surface that would be hidden from view by canopy in a vertical projection (a bird's-eye view).
d G: cover at the surface is grass, grasslike plants, decaying compacted duff, or litter at least 2 in. deep.
W: cover at the surface is mostly b~oadleafherbaceous plants (as weeds with little lateral-root network near
the surface) or undecayed residues or both.
(v) P= Support Practice Factor. Its value depends upon crop land practice such as
contour tillage, strip cropping on the contour, and terrace systems. Values of P have
been given for each of these practices by Wischmeier and Smith (19 7 8). In general,
tillage and planting on the contours reduce erosion. Table 118.31 gives P values for
contouring.
Table 18.31. P values (Eq. 18.16) and Slope-Length Limits for contouring
(Wischmeier & Smith)
Land Slope% P Value Maximum Length* (feet)
1-2 0.60 400
3-5 0.50 300
6-8 0.50 200
9-12 0.60 120
13-16 0.70 80
17-20 0.80 60
21-25 0.90 50
* Limit may be increased by 25% for residue cover after crop seedlings will regularly
exceed50%.
Since it is difficult to get proper data for the use of Eq. (18.16) for a developing
country like India, this equation is not popular in developing countries.
18.14.3. Sediment Measurement by Sample Recorder. The sediment produced
by sheet erosion from a catchment may not always reach at the point of measurement;
i.e. the site of dam reservoir. Some part of sediment may be deposited en-route .. The
ratio b·etween the yield of sediment at the measuring site and the .gross erosion in the
catchment is called the sediment delivery ratio.
Thus, the sediment yield is the gross sediment yield minus the quantity of sediment
-depOsifed en route. The seoiment yield, infact, is important; since it ls this sediment____
which will get deposited in the reservoir, affecting its useful life.
The sediment yield of a reservoir can be calculated either by using an appropriate
empirical equation, out of the ones developed by various investigators; or by developing
a rational appropriate relation between inflow and sediment, on the basis of actual
measurements of sediment load at the site of the reservoir. The continuous measure-
ments of suspended load and bed load at the reservoir site for a number of years will
help in developing a rational relation (either a mathematical equation or a graphical
curve) between sediment and the inflow into the reservoir. We will first of all discuss
the method of the actual measurement of sediment and developing an appropriate
relation between sediment yield Cqs) and the river discharge (Q) at the given site.
-·-·---rsr43:1-:-Measuring suspeiiaeasedimeiit foad-:- Sediment samplers to are--used
measure suspended sediment at a given site on the river to obtain the most reliable results
of sediment yield. The bed load should also be calculated either by using the available
empirical equations*, or on an adhoc basic of 2.5-25% of the suspended load, as to
calculate the total sediment load (sum of suspended load and bed load).
A typical sediment sampler used in India is shown in Fig. 18.26. A depth integrating
hand sampler used for smaU-streams is also shown in Fig. 18.27.
* Please see article 4. 9.
Lever to lift
stopper
Length
of
pipe
Hinged
clamped
Brass
l
plate
Fig. 18.26. Line diagram of a typical sediment sampler (Punjab bottle sampler).
Water surface
----=---= w::... ---...=-=-= -=-"'=
--------
.:::....:::. :...-:.....--=
-----
Standard
wading rod
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - -
Unsampled
Interchangeable sediment
nozzle Load
P"mt Milk bottle
Bed level
Fig. 18.27. AUS.DH-48 depth-integrating hand sampler for small streams.
The sampler is taken into the stream to a depth of 0.6y below the water surface, or at two
depths at 0.2y and 0.8y depths to collect samples of sedimented water in the sampler bottle.
The collected sample of sedimented water is then analysed in the laboratory either by a
gravimetric method, or by hydrometric method to determine the quantum of coarse sediment
(particle size higher than 0.2 mm), medium size sediment (particle size bet>reen 0.075 mm to
0.2 mm) and of fine sediment (particle size less than 0.075 mm), separately . Their sum will
indicate the total sediment load present in the given volume of water sample. Sediment
load present in the water sample is then expressed in ppm (parts for million) as :
. d. Dry mass of sediment .
Sed1ment 1oa mppm = .. x· 106
Total mass of original sample including the mass of
sediment & of water
... (18.21)
This value can be converted into t/day by multiplying the average unit wt. of
sediment (say 1.2 t/m3 ) with the total volume of daily inflow in m3 .
When a large number of such sample records become available for the given site,
then a curve can be plotted between the sediment load (qs) in t/day on x-axis and daily
discharge in m3Is on y-axis, as to obtain a curve known as sediment rating curve, as
shown in Fig 18.28. Such a plotting is usually done on a log-log paper.
1000~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~ 100
VI
;;:;--
..§.
..."'ClOl
.c
u
VI 10
·;:;
>-
·c;
Cl
10 . , 100
f--lls=K--j Sediment Load, q 5 t/d (log scale)
Fig. 18.28. A typical sediment rating curve.
When a standard sediment rating curve is established for a given site, the sediment
yield (qs) can be read out by simply knowing the discharge rate only. However, care
must be taken to see that for different seasons of the year, different curves will have to
be developed, since the sediment yield of a basin may vary with the season. The curve,
_ __fo_Lg!)'._J'tl~rnbJrro_11:mQns_o_Qn__p_erio_d) _may be entirely different from ·.the. curve for.the'
month of say August (monsoon season).
* The sample collected by the sampler is first passed through a BSS-100 sieve and the coarse particles
retained are taken out and oven dried. Thus, the quantity of coarse sediment (higher than 0.2 mm size) is
obtained. Sedimented water passing 200 µ sieve is allowed to stand for 20 minutes, so that the finer particles
settle down. The settled_ mass is removed by the process of decantation (pouring out water from the settled
tank). The settled residue is dried and weighed, as to get the mass of fine sediment (0.075 ~ - 0.2 mm).
Poured. water contains sediment of still finer particles. To isolate this, the sample is filtered through a filter
paper, and the quantity retained therein is dried and weighed. This gives the mass of fine sediment (particle
size< 0.075 mm). The summation of all the three masses will give the total mass of sediment.
..
.
The sediment rating curves can be used to compute daily sediment load for the given
daily· discharge values, and their summation can give us the monthly or the _annual
sediment load.
18.14.3.2. Mathematical equation for a sediment rating curve. The sediment
rating curve (straight line poi:tton) giving sediment load in tonnes/day (qJ w.r. to daily
discharge (Q) in m3I sec can be expressed by a mathematical equation of the form :
q_, = K. Qn ... (I 8.22)
Taking log on both sides,
log qs =log K + n · log Q
This equation is similar to the form
y=a +bx,
where log qs is plotted on y-axis and log Q on x-axis.
n=b ... (18.23)
log K =a ... (18.24)
A mathematical solution for such an equation can be obtained by the statistical
method of least squares, where in the various known values of x (i.e. log Q) and y
(i.e. log qs) are analysed to estimate a and b values as : ·
I.y·I.x2 -I.x·I.xy
a= ... (I 8.25)
NI. x 2 - (I. x) 2
b = NI.xy~ I.x. I.! ... (18.26)
N · I.x -(I.x)
By computing values of a and b, values of n and K become known to finally com-
pute the relation between qs and Q by Eq. (18.22).
The use of this method will become clear when we solve example 18.18.
------ ·- -- Exan1ple 18.18:A -resefv7SiYlias tliefollowing .sedimenr and'dischatge data ~-
Year 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88
Discharge (M nz3) 1430 3850 2050 6510 2880 1120 6050 2220
Sediment load (M.t) as 2.65 5.82 3.60 7.15 5.22 1.95 6.88 3.94
measured by silt sampler
Calculate the average total sediment load/year/JOO sq. km of the catchment at ihe
site. Develop a regression relation and predict the total and observed sediment yield
for the inflow of 3450 M.m3 for the year 1978. Take the catchment area at the site as
3050 sq. km. What is the tQtal sediment yield for 100 years ? Assume bed load as 10%;
of suspended load. · '
____ _ ~C>.l"l!t~II'. A\.'~~a_g_~~~~illl~E:t!()_ad!!leasure<!_ by silt ~E_lpl~_-···-·--- _,_
2.65+5.82+3.6+7.15+5.22+ 1.95+6.88+3.94.
=
8
37.21
= --Mt/year=4.651 Mt/yr.
8
Since sediment load is measured by a silt sampler, the give~ values of sediment are
of suspended load.
Now, assume Bed load= 10% of suspended load /
:. Total load = Suspended load + Bed load

:. Total sediment load = 1.1 x 4.651 = 5.116
or (qs) = 5.1l6 Mt/yr.
Sediment deposited in a reservoir consolidates gradually due to the increasing silt load on
it every year and the wt. of water above it. Assuming the average sediment unit weight
(sediment in a reservoir consists of sand, silt and clay in water) as 1.2 t/m 3, we have
:. -Total silt load/year =.S.116 Mt
qs =5.116M·
l.2 m
3=4263M
. m
3
Catchment area = 3050 sq. km

- . 4.263Mm3
:. Sedmient load/100 sq. km/year =
30 0
x 100 5
3
= 0.1397 M m /100 sq. km/year Ans.
3
Total sediment yield in 100 years= 4.263 M m3/yr. x 100 yr.= 426.3 Mm Ans.
In order to develop a regression type non-linear equation between total sediment
load (qs) and discharge (Q), represented as qs = K · Q11 , we carry out the required calculac
Lions in table 18.32 to evaluate the values of a and b by Eqn. (18.25) and (18.26), as :
T_able 18.32. Computations to develop Equation
y =a +bx by the method of least squares.
Suspended Total sediment

i.e. q_,. in M m3
x·y
year
Discharge Sediment logQ =x x2 logqs=Y -, __ coH5) I -
-Q(M~ni 3 ) - inei1sui-ed in 1 1* - /(Jg col r2r ::T(c~>l 5)2 iogccJl(4}
col(3)x-·- x col (7)
M.t 1.2
(I) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)

-- --- ------·- - - ---- --
81. - 1436 2.65 2.429 3.1553 9.9561 0.3855 l.2164
82 3850 5.82 5.335 3.5855 12.8555 0.7271 2.6070
83 2050 3.60 3.300 3.3.IJ8 10.9677 0.5185 l.7172 I
84 6510 - 7.15 6.554 3.8136 14.5433 0.8165 3.1138
85 - 2880 -- 5.22 4.785 3.4594 11.9674 0.6799 2.3520
86 1120 l.95 1.788 3.0492 9.2977 0.2522 0.7690

-"-- --- - --·-- - ------- -- ----- ----
87 6050 6.88 6.307 3.7818 14.3017 0.7998 3.0247
88 2220 3.94 3.612 3.3464 l l.1981 0.5577 l.8663
I 27.503 95.0875 4.7372 16.6664
. . M ') q, in M · t
* l/s (Total sedunent.m m· = · 3
x ( l.l )** **Total sediment= 1.1 (Observed sediment by soil sampler)
1.2 t/m ·
- l l
_ = col(3)x1.z
(
J - ... -
RESERVOIRS ANO PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 971
LY·Lx2-Lx·Lxy
Using· a=--"------=- ... (i.e. 18.25)
NLx2- (Lx)2
4.7372x 95.0875-27.503 x 16.6664
we get a=------------=----..,,-
8 x 95.0875 - (27 .503) 2
-7.9275 '
or a= _ = - 1.8500
4 2850
But log K =a=- 1.8500 .. K = 0.014
------ _____ _:_ --N·Lxy--Lx·LY-
... (i.e. 18.26)
. Also . b= N·Lx2-(Lx)2
= 8 x 16.6664-27.503 x 4.7372 = 3.0440 = 0.7104
8 x 95.0875- (27.503) 2 4.2850
But b = n = 0.7104
Regression equation is hence given as :
. qs = K · Qn = 0.014 (Q) 0·7104 Ans .
. , T.otal. sediment yield for the year 1978 having inflow of 3450 M m,3
. =0.014(3450)0 ·7104 =4.565Mm3
· = 4.565 M m3 x 1.2 ti m3 = 5.48 Mt . Ans.
Observed. or suspended sediment load for the year 197?
5
= i~8 Mt= 4.98 Mt Ans.
18.14.3.3. Empirical equations for total sediment yield. The following empirical!
equations have been developed by several investigators, for estimating the annual sedi-
ment yield of a reservoir.
(1) Swami's Regression Equation. Swamy and Garde (1977) have proposed a rela-
tion correlating the cumulative volume of sediment deposited in a reservoir with the
.. -curiiufative voliiriie-ofwater inflow; andillifiaJ.oeCI-sTope-oflne·river;as·- -- -, c ' --
Vs= C. B . (Vci)°-94 (So)0.84 ... (18.27)
where Vs= cumulative vol. of sediment deposited in

the reservoir in M · m 3 ·
C = Regression constant with safe value of
the order of 1.16. However a value less
. than 1.16 may be adopted depending on
the reservoir
B = Wid,th of the re.servoir at full reservoir
level in m
Vci = Cumulative vol. of inflow per unit width
· - - - - -'-sc-o-r-rh-e-reservofr--0 - - - - - - - - - - - - · - - - -
S0 = Bed slope of the river.
(2) Jogelkar's Equation. An equation proposed by Jogelkar (1960) is given as :
Qs=0.59(Ar 0·24 ... (18.28)
3
where Qs = Annual silting rate in M · m per 100 sq.
km of catchment area
A = Catchment area in sq km
(3) Khosla's Equation. Khosla (1953) has proposed the following empirical equation.
Qs = 0.323 (A)- 0·28 ..• (18.29)
where Qs= Annual siltation rate in M · m3/100 s.q

km/year
A= Catchment area in sq. km.
This equation always gives lower estimate of sediment yield at a site ..
(4) Varshneys Equations. Varshne_y and Raichur hf!Ve_propo_s_ed the following equa-
i'ions for calculating sediment yield for an ungauged basin. -- --
(i) Up to I 30 sq. km catchment for mountainous rivers
Q.. = 0.395 (Af o.311 ... (18.30)
where Qs = Annual sediment yield rate in M · m 3 per
100 sq. km of catchment
A= catchment area in km2.
(ii) Rivers draining plain area up to 130 sq. km
Qs = 0.392(Af0· 302 .. '.(18.31)
Qs & A have the same meaning as in Eqn. (18.30).
(iiz) For area greater than 130 sq. km for North Indian catchment
Qs = 1.534 (Af o.264 ... (18.32)
Qs &A have the same meaning as in Eq. (18.30).
(iv) For South Indian Rivers up to 130 sq. km
Qs ::::: 0.46 (A f 0.468 ... (18.33)
-- ·- - --
Qs & A have
::-: :_- -- ~-·-·:.
the s~m~
--- : - ----
m~al!i.!!g a_sjf!_Eqn,DB.30). __, __ _
---- __ ::: _____ -- --
--=----~- ~ - ··-
~---.--
(v) For areas greater than 130 sq. km for South Indian catchments
Q.1.=0.277(A)~ 0 - 194 . ... (18.34)
Qs & A have the same meaning as in Eqn. (18.30).
(5) Using Known. Data of Similar Catchment. Sediment yield of an unmeasured
watershed Q.1•2 can be computed from sediment yield of measured catchment Qs 1 of
similar topography, la(n~ c)over and land use, on area proportion basis, as
Qs2 = Qs1 Ac
2 ... (18.35)
. Example 18.19. Estimate the sediment load in tonne at the proposed dam site in
North India with the following data using wi_rious empirica_~,e_'{1!_f!,t~o~s_: _______ _ I-
---i
~~-.Catchment area -= I 830 sq. km
i
Width of reservoir at FRL = 560.0 m
River slope at the dam site = 0.006
Average inflows at the site are as follows :
Year 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990
lnjlow M · 11/ 2210 1290 1640 1780 2150 1980 2540 1285 1620
RESERVOIRS AND PLAN.NINO FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 973
Assume annual siltatio.n rate per JOO sq. km from a similar catchment of 3050 sq.
km to be 10.35 M · m3/JOO sq. km.
Solution. The sedimentation rate is worked out by using various equations as
described in the previous article. ·
(1) By Swamy' s Regression Method: The computation is carried out in Table 18.28
by using Eqn. (18.27) as :
Vs == C. B CVcf 94 (So)°.84
where C == 1.16
B==560m
So ==0.006
.. Vs= cumulative vol. of sediment deposited in M · m3
~ 1.16 x 560 CVci)0 ·94 x (0.006) 0·84

= 8.837 (Vci)0.94
where vci is the cumulative vol. of annual in~
flows per unit width B of reservoir, ov,er
the given years.
The computations are carried out in Table 18.33, which is self explanatory.
Table 18.33. Computation of sediment Load by Swamy's Regression Method
-rNO~ -- Year- - JnJloW-iii cumulative· --v,1 ~-1:-umutariiiinii""flowperunir- --- Vs.. =8.837

--··
(Vci)
0.94'
M·m 3
inflow in M m3 widthB of reservoir= c~g) =8.837 (col 5)0·94 M · m3
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
1 1982 2210 2210 3.946 32.11
2 1983 1290 3500 6.250 49.48
3 1984 1640 5140 9.179 71.01
4 1985 1780 6920 12.357 93.91
-'-5- -J986- ---2lso--- ---9010--· •6~196 ~-2T:ro----'--

-
6 1987 1980 11050 19.732 145.80
7 1988 2540 13590 24.268 177.11
8 1989 1285 14875 26.563 192.81
9 1990 1620 16495 29.455 212.48

Qs =sedimentation rate per 100 sq. km
- V:rU-~;
. cumulative
. . vol. of silt) ><---,..=__--.,,-
lOOsq. km
- No.ofyears(i.e.9) 2
t:Aof1830km
212.48 100 .\
·=-9-x 1830
or Q.1. = L29 M m3/100 sq. km Ans.
(2) By Jogelkar's Equation.
Q_,. = 0.59 (Ar o.24
= o.59 (183or 0·24
= 0.10 M m3/100 sq. km·.· Ans;
(3) By Khosla 's Equation
Qs = 0.323 (Af o.28
= o.323 (183or 0·28
=0.04Mm3/100sq.km Ans.
(4) By Varshneys EquationforNorths Indian catchment exceeding 130 sq. km.
Qs = 1.534 (Aro.264
= 1.534 c133or 0·264
= 0.21~ M m3/100 sq. km Ans.
(5) From similar catchment.·
Q.1•1 = 4.56 M m3/100 sq. km
A1 =3050sq.km
A2 = 1830 sq. km _ ___ . .. ____________ _
~.. ~Q, x (~:r cc c~ . . ..
. = 0.35 x (~o;~ )Mm3/100 sq.km·

=0.21 Mm 3/100sq.km Ans.
18.15. Reservoir Sediment.ation Studies on Existing Reservoirs·
Sedimentation ·of storage reservoirs is a 11atural process, since large part of the silt
eroded from the catchment and transported· by the river, gets deposited on the bed of
the reservoir. This causes reduction in the live as well as dead storage capacities of the
reservoir. Progressive loss of capacity due to sediment accumulation results in reduced 1
. benefits and.max._e_y_~n_c_ause_op.erationaLproblems .. Jt,.-therefor:_e,-becomes:...necessa-ry--to-·_._.. _-+ -

monitor the sedimentation rates in the existing reservoi;s at regular inte,1;als, to help '
in planning and executing suitable remedial measures for controlling sedimentatiOn in
order. to prolong the life of the reservoir and its b~nefits,
Regular monitoring and updating of elevat~on-capacity curve of the reservoir im-
mensely helps in better water. management. With this .aim, conventfonal hydrographic
surveys are conducted at regular intervals at the existing reservoirs to determine the
available capacities at different i;:levations, and to help compute the sedimentation
volume at such regular intervals. Such conventional surveys will require computation
of water spread area at different water levels, and is quite a tedious and a costly process.
Remote. sensing techniques do offer a modern answer to the costly conventional
surveys, as it offers a great potential for application in capacity evaluation of medium
to large reservoirs. From the data provided by the remote sensing satellites, it has now
been possible to compute loss of .reservoir capacity due to sedimentation; and its dis-
tribution. The results obtained from this technique have been found to be quite com-.
parable with those obtained from the costly and cumbersome conventional methods. One
of the greatest advantage of this technique is that the capacity evaluation could be easily
computed on yearly basis.
The methodology involved in this technique requires the use and analysis of the
satellite imageries provided by the Remote Sensing satellites, which collect the data of
the Earth surface features in different bands at regular intervals. In the case of Indian
Remote Sensing Satellites IRS-IA and IRS-IB* (both id.entical satellites), this peri-
odicity is 22 days for Indian sub-continent. These two satellites together are thus capable
to provide us data of all our reser\/oirs at 11 days interval. The third satellite of this
series IRS- IC has also been launched recently on 28.01.1996 and h<:lps in providing
better pictures even of cloud bound areas. IRS-ID has further been launched· on
29 .09 .1997, through our first Indian rocket launcher. · ·
Due to the .water withdrawals from an existing reservoir, its water spread area. goes on
changing throughout the year. The reservoirs are generally full just after the monsoon period
in October, and get depleted to almost dead storage/minimum drawdown level just before
start of monsoon season in May or June, every year. The satellite data of various dates during
the period from October to May, provide us an array of water spread areas between .
maximum water level. (i.e. around the FRL) and the minimum reservoir level (i.e. around
the dead storage level/minimum drawdown level). From the whole set of the satellite data,
a few of them which are cloud free and of good quality and representative of the whole
. c range.ofreservoirJevels .atclose.llitervals, areselectedfor-analysis ..
The method of analysis depends upon the data products. The selected CCT's/FCC's
of various dates are analysed for determining the water spread areas. The corresponding
water levels are obtaineq from the daily gauge record of the reservoir. From these, the
water volumes between two consecutive water levels are. computed using Prismoidal or
any appropriate. formula. Volume of water below the minimum water level (as recorded
by the satellite) and the "ne~ zero"**elevation, are estimated based upon the previous
hydrographic surveys. In case, these informations are not a~ailable in the hydrographic .
survey data, then the elevation-area relationship obtained from the hydrographic surveys
as well as the one obtained from the satellite data interpretation, should be extended to
get the new zero elevation, and then the volume between the minimum mapped water
level and this new zero level is estimated. After this, the cumulative water volume at
each reservoir level is computed, an.d then the .revised. elevation-area-c~acity curve is
draw-ri~ By-comp-anng the orTginaTarea~capaclt)--9urveor-any -other-s~ch cii°r~e:-the-to-tal.
sediment volume and its distribution can be computed.
18.16. Observed Sedimentation Rates for Various Important Indian Reservoirs
The observed sedimentation rates for various important dam reservoirs in India are ·
indicated in col. (6) & (7) of Table 18.34. ·
*IRS-IA was launched on 19.03.1988,and IRS-IB was launched on 23.08.1991.

** The minimum reservoir bed level is raised due to sedimentation, which is termed as the new zero.
Table 18.34. Annual Sedimentation Rates of Various Indian Reservoirs
S. Name and Location of Catchment Capacity Sulface Annual Annual volume Dead
No. reservoir area in JOO of area at sediment of sediment storage
sq. km reservoir MRL rate in deposit M · m3 capacity
at FRLin M·m 2 ham/JOO col (6) x col (3) provided in
M·m 3 sq. m JOO M·m 3
(I! (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
I Bhakra i.e. Govind 568 9351 169 6.00 34.08 95

·•
Sagar) (HP)
2 · Gandhi Sagar (MP) 226 7413 660 10.08 22.71 586
3 Hirakund (Orissa) 834 8146 725 3.89 32.44 2318
4 Lower Bhawani (TN) 61.5 929 - 4.10 2.52 0
5 Maithan (DVC) 63 1275 - 13.02 8.20 165
6 Matatila (UP) 207.5 883 - 3.50 7.26 50
7 Mayurkshi (WB~ 18.6 617 - 20.09 3.74 68
8 Nizam Sagar (AP) 216.94 715 130 6.57 14.25 -

8 Panchat (DVC) Ill 1475 153 9.92 11.01 170
10 Ramganga (UP) 30.76 2448 - 17.30 5.32 395
II Sri ram Sagar or 8.19 3454 - 15.20 1.24 849

Shivaji Sagar (AP)
12 Tawa(MP) - 2312 - 8.10 - 263
18.17. Reservoir Losses

Huge quantity of water is generally lost from an impounding reservoir due to
evaporation, absorption, and percolation. Depending upon which, the following losses
may occur from such a reservoir :
1. Evaporation losse.s ;
2. Absorption losses ; and
3. Percolati.on losses or Reservoir leakage.
These losses are discussed below.
18.17.1. Evaporation Losses. The evaporation losses from a reservoir depend
upon several factors, such as : water surface area, water depth, humidity, wind velocity,
temperature, atmospheric pressure and quality of water as discussed in article 7.34.2.3.
The evaporation loss from a reservoir under th~ gix.~n_atmospheric.conditions-can-be._::_ ..- - - '·-
easily estimated by measuring the standard pan evaporation and multiplying the same
by the pan coefficient. The pan coefficients and various types of pans in use are given
in article 7.34.3.4.
The evaporation losses become very significant in a hot and humid country like
India ; and realistic estimation of these losses is quite important. These losses in fact
vary from place to place and from season to season, and hence monthly values of these
losses are usually determined. Typical average values of these losses for North and
South India are given in table 18.35.
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS - 977
Table 18.35. Monthly Reservoir Evaporation Losses
Losses in cm
Month
North India South and Central India
January 7 IO
February 9 10
March 13 18
April 16 23
-
May 27 25
,,
June 24 18
July 18 15..
August 14 15
September 14 15
October · 13 13
November 9 10
December 8 10
Total 172 182
On the basis of a review conducted on 130 sample reservoirs, the Central Water
Commission, in 1990, has, however, estimated the average annual evaporation los_s to
be 225 cm ; and the total water lost from all the existing reserv·oirs to be 27000 Mm3
per annum. What a tremendous waste of precious water!
In order to control such large scale wastage of water, several methods haw been
devised by engineers and scientists. All these methods. are based upon the efforts made
to reduce the evaporation rate from the surface of the water bodies by physical or
-----··=chemieahneans;~since-the"Cbasic=meteorolo-gical"factors"'affoctin'g'evaporation=cannbt ·be-'"
controlled under normal conditions. The following methods are generally used for
evaporation control :
1. Wind breakers
2. Covering of the water surface
3. Reduction Of the exposed water surface \. /
4. Use of underground storage rather than the use of surface storage

5. Integrated operation of reservoirs
. /
6. Use of chemicals for retarding the evaporation rate from the reservoir surface.
Out of all these methods, the last.method has evoked the maximum response from
____ !!G>_y~r the world, and has b_een considered to be the onl:y..Q!"~f.ti~L~9luti_qn_fQ!.cf..O.l1J_e_!
vation of fresh water, inspite of its various limitations and disadvantages in high cost of
application in normal conditions. The use of chemicals, called Water Evapo-Retardants
(WERs), fo):~ontrolling the evaporation rate from the surface of reservoirs is therefore,
discussed here in details.
A non toxic chemical, capable of forming a thin monomolecular film over the water
surface, is generally spread over the reservoir water surface in powder, liquid or emul-
sion form. The resulting film prevents energy inputs from the atmosphere, thus reducing
evaporation. Such a film, however, allows the passage of enough air through it, to avoid ' I
any harmful effects on the aquatic life due to shortage of oxygen. I j
I
I
I
I
978 . IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES
Fatty alcohols of different grades like : Cetyl alcohol (C 16 .H 33 .0H) popularly called
lzexa decanol, Stearyl alcohol (C 18 .H 37 .0H) popularly called Octadecanol, and Behenyl
alcohol (C 22 .H45 .0H) called docosanol, or a mixture of these chemicals, have been
generally used and found to be quite suitable. These chemicals should, however, be 99%
pure for getting the desired properties of mono/ayer. National Chemical Laboratory,
Pune, has d.eveloped one more compound by synthesising alkoxy ethanols.
In general, all such chemical compounds should ·possess the following properties :
(i) the chemical compound (WER)should be tasteless, odourless, non-toxic, non-
inflammable, and should not produce any effect on the quality of water:
(ii) the chemical should easily spread and form an even compact cohesive and
efficient monomolecular film on the water surface.
(iii) the thin.film formed by the chemical should be pervious to oxygen and carbon
dioxide, but tight enough to prevent escape of water molecules.
(iv) the thin film formed by the chemical shou.ld be durable, and should be able to
re-seal itself, when .broken.due to external disturbances such as wind,waves,
etc.
(v) the chemical and the film formed by it should not be adversely affected by the
water borne bacteria, proteins and other impurities present in the water body.
The use of chemical WERs ·has, however not been found to be cost effective for
mass scale use, and has further not been found to be suitable under the following
conditions :
(a) when the wind velocities exceed 10 km/hr or so.
(b) when the temperature rises above 40°C or so.
(c) when the size of the water body is relatively large.
,~,~ ::_12e,\!~lopmentof cheapecWERs capabJe ofwithstanding-higher-wind speeds:upto-about
20 ·km/hr and having strong cohesive forces and properties· of self spreading and re-uniting
to maintain the monolayer in resilient state even at high wind velocities, is therefore of vital
importance. Moreover, the life of the film formed, must be longer, so as to reduce the
frequency of application to about 3 to 7 days from its present frequency of 24 hours.
Development of such chemical WERs is the subject matter of present research.
Other kmg term evaporation control measures like plantation of trees to act as wind
breakers*, reduction of exposed water surface by covers, underground storage of water,
integrated operation of reservoirs; etc. have been employed in som·e parts of the country.
The effectiveness and economics of these method.s are,·however, yet to· be established.
In . India, ·the ·water conservation methods• are presently being adopted only in
draught prone and.. scarcity areas, since large scale use of such methods on ali the
___r_e_s_e_r_y_o_ii:s__oLthe__c_o_untryJs_no.tfound_to. be.economicaLor-pr;actically-unfeasible-due-to----·-·.. ·
their large size and adverse meteorological factors.
18.17.2. Absorption Losses. These losses do not play any significant role in planning,
since their amount, though sometimes large in the beginning, falls considerably as the pores
get saturated. They certainly depend upon the type of soil forming the reservoir.
18.17.3. Percolation Losses or Reservoir Leakage. For most of the reservoirs,
the banks are permeable but the permeability is so low that the leakage is of no
* Trees having lesser evapotranspiration should only be chosen and identified.

importance. But in certain particular cases, when the walls of the reservoir are made of
badly fractured rocks or having continuous seams of porous strata, serious le'akage may
occur. Sometimes, pressure grouting may have to be used to seal the fractured rocks.
The cost of grouting has to be accounted in the economic studies of the project, if the
. leakage is large.
18.18. Reservoir Clearance
The removal of trees, bushes and other vegetation from the reservoir area is known
as reservoir cleararice. It is an expensive operation and difficult to be justified on .
cost-benefit considerations. Non-clearance of such vegetation may lead to the following
troubles :
(i) decay of organic material may create undesirable odours and tastes, and hence,
becomes important for water supply reservoirs. ·
(ii) trees projecting above the water surface may create undesirable appearance,
when the reservoir is to be used for recreation and tourism purposes.
(iii) bushes, trees, etc. wlll float and may create debris problems at the dam.
18.19. Selection of a Suitable Site for a Reservoir
It is almost impossible to select a perfect ideal reservoir site. But its selection is
guided by the following factors :
(i) A suitable dam site is available. The cost of the dam is generally a controlling
factor in the selection of a reservoir site.
(ii) The gt-ological formations for the reservoir banks, walls, etc. should be such as
to entail minimum leakage.
(iii) The geology of the catchment area should be such as to entail minimum water
losses through absorption and percolation.
(iv) The site should be such that a deep reservoir is formed. A deep reservoir is
· preferred-to a shallow one,-because-of-lowedand cost:per=unit of capacity, less evapora,
tion loss, and less possibility of weed growth. ! i
(v) The reservoir site must have adequate capacity.
(vi) Too much silt laiden tributaries should be avoided as far as possible.
(vii) The reservoir basin should have a deep narrow opening in the valley, so that
the length of the dam is minimum.
18.20. Reservoir Induc.ed Seismicity
During the recent times, a very strange phenomenon has been observed in several dams
of the world. What actually has happened is that the reservoir basins or areas which were
seismologically inactive, started showing seismic activities, as the reservoir was filled up
with water. The magnitude of these earthquakes is found increasing with the filling of the
reservoir, giving severe shocks when the reservoir is full. In all such cases, the epicentre is
.al ways seen cto &efocatecfwfrhinilie-riservoiroialong ffs-boroei. - --
An important Indian example of such an earthquake has been in the case of Koyna
dam (Maharashtra), which is situated in the seismologically inactive zone in Peninsular
India. However, when the dam got ready and water started collecting (1962) in the
reservoir, the earthquakes also started occurring (1963). The frequency and intensity of
these earthquakes had gone on increasing, as more and more water went on collecting
in the reservoir. On 10th December, 1967, the severest shock occurred with a magnitude
of about 6.5, followed by three more shocks of decreasing magnitudes. The epicentres
of all these shocks were traced to be within the reservoir area.
980 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC"STRUCTURES
Some other examples of such earthquake sites, noticed outside India, are at Lake
Mead (U.S.A.) ; Grand Val Lake (France) ; Vorgorno Lake (Switzerland) ; etc.
This phenomenon has been studied by various seismologists, and it has ·been suggested
by some that in most such cases, there must have existed some inactive faults in the reservoir
basin area, which became active again due to the extra-ordinary load ofthe reservoir water,
thus causing displacements along these faults and consequently resulting in earthquakes.
Some other seismologists have suggested that these earthquakes are caused due to increased
pore pressure in the adjoining rocks, which lowers their shearing strength, resulting in the
release of tectonic strain.
Based on these explanations, the various preventive methods suggested for prevent- ·•
ing or reducing such earthquakes, include :
(i) filling of the reservoir to a limited safe level ;
(ii) reducing pore pressure by draining out water from weaker adjoining rocks ;
and ·
(iii) to actively explore the dam site for the absence of inactive faults before
selecting the same.
Such earthquakes, however, show a decreasing tendency with time. This
phenomenon is indeed very complex and interesting, and still needs further research.
18.21. Economic Height of a Dam
The economic height of a dam is that height of the dam, corresponding to which,
the cost of the dam per unit of storage is minimum. For this purpose, the estimates are
prepared for construction costs, for several heights of the dam, somewhat above and
below the level at which the elevation-storage curve shows a fairly high rate of increase.
. of storage per unit rise of elevation, keeping the length of the dam moderate. The construc-
tion cost is found to increase with the dam height, as shown in Fig. 18.29 .
. ,_
!fl \/')
Ow
UUJ
z a..
s~
>-
u Z
:::>0
er '.:i .·
>- _J ·-~. _,
\/')-
z :l: A
I
Oz
u- ~~~~~~~~-:-~......,...~~---
DAM HEIGHT !N METRES~ ---- t HEIGHT OF~

(MOST ECONOMICAL HEIGHT)
Fig. 18.29 Fig. 18.30
__:__:_ _________________________. -------------·-------·--;---··-·--·--·-···---~ ·-- ·-·---------
For each dam height, the reservoir storage is known from the reservoir-capacity curve.
The construction cost per unit of storage for all the possible dam height.s can then be worked
out and plotted, as shown in Fig. 18.3"0.
The lowest point A on this curve, gives the dam height for which the cost per unit
of storage is minimum, and hence, most economical.
Example 18.20. The construction costs for certain possible heights of a dam at a
given site have been estimated and are tabulated in the table below. The storage
capacity for all these dam heights are also given.
RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FORDAM RESERVOIRS 981
Height of the dam in Construction cost in Storage in million cubic
S.No.
metres million Rs. metres
(1) (2) (3) (4)
1 JO 4 50
2 20 8 110
3 30 12 180
4 40 18 250
5 50 27 350
6 60 39 500
7 65 50 600
Determine the most economical height of the dam from purely construction point
of view.
Solution. The given table is extended, so as to workout the cost per million cubic
metre of storage, as shown in col. (5) of Table 18.36.
Table 18.36
Cost per unit of s~orage
Height of the dam Construction cost
S.No. Storage in M.m 3 Col.3
in metres inM.Rs. -
Col.4
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
1 10 4 50 0.080
2 20 8 110 0.073
3 30 12 180 0.067
4 40 18 250 0.072
5 5.0 27 350 0.077
6 60 39 500 O.Q78
7 65 50 600 0.083
- -- --- ·· ---The-cost--per-unit-of-storage is--plotted-cagainstc-the:cheight·of- the-dam; as shown in

Fig. 18.31. The most economical height is the lowest point of this curve, and it works
out to ~e 30 metres. Ans. ·
E
::>
j) sor-~-t--::::--r-~~r-~-r--=:::::::i=====-r--~~
: Cl ----h-_ . . . .---
°'~ : -........,~
a. x 1 Lowest· point
~ ~ 601--~=-i1----t----+----r-----t--,-----t---~
a:: Ol
c:: ...
c
- ----- --- .. ~~-~-..C-46·+-·--·-_--_------+----------~--+-·-_-_--_-------~
1-----r--------------r--·_-_-_--·--r-----·-_--·_·-~·
-- .
I
I
c::
-
u
~
0 ht.
~
I
I
I
0 10. 20 30 40 50 60 701
Height of dam in metres~
Fig. 18.31.
982 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES ,.
PROBLEMS
1. (a) What is meant by a 'Reservoir'? Discuss briefly the different types of reservoirs and the
purpose served by each type.
(b) Describe briefly the techniques that are employed for computing the storage capacity of a
reservoir for different water surface elevations.
2. (a) What is meant by a 'Flood control reservoir' ; and what are their different types ?
(b) Discuss with a neat sketch, the various storage zones of the dam reservoir.
(c) What factors you will ~eep in mind while selecting a suitable site for a dam reservoir?
_3. (a) Differentiate clearly between the following :
(i) A flood control reservoir and a multipurpose reservoir.
(ii) A retarding basin and a storage reservoir.
(iii) Firm yield, design yield, and secondary yield of a reservoir.
(b) Briefly describe as to how you would fix the storage capacity of a reservoir and the height of
the dam required for this storage. (Madras University, 1976)
4. (a) What is the relation between 'reservoir capacity' and 'reservoir yield'?
(b) How would you fix the capacity of a dam reservoir at a particular river site, provided the inflow
pattern and demand pattern are known. Explain the mass curve method which is used for this purpose.
5. (a) Explain how the storage capacity of a reservoir is fixed.
(Madras University, 1973, 1974)
(b) Explain the mass curve method that can be used for determining:
(i) Reservoir capacity for fulfilling given demand.
(ii) Demand rate from a reservoir of a given capacity.
6. Discuss briefly and with necessary neat sketches, the demand patterns for the following types of
reservoirs :
(i) Single purpose conservation reservoir.
(ii) Single purpose flood control reservoir.
(iii) Multipurpose reservoir.
-7.-(a) What-is meant,by ,-'flood,routing-_ through-_reservoirs"?=--"~ '' --:-:- -=-- "' -:- -=, --, =-o --- ==-: -------c--
(b) Describe step by step procedure that you will adopt for flood routing computations required for
reservoirs under 'trial and error method'.
8. Describe a method for routing flood water through a deep reservoir using the fundamental relation
between inflow, outflow (discharge) and storage. Take Q = C.L. ri312 for the spillway.
(U.P.S.C.,Engg. Services, 1974)
9. The initial inflow in a reservoir and outflow over the spillway was 30 m 3/sec. During a storm,
the following inflow rates were noted at the ends of successive half day periods : 240, 300, 240, 90, 30
3
and 30 m /sec. The relationship between discharge over the spillway (Q), and storage rate in the reservoir
(f}may be expressed by the equation
Q=l.~.
2 T
Assuming that the average inflow rate duri11_g e11c_!i h_alf d_ay_l'_(:r!()dj~ eq~}J()_tlle a_yc;:r~ge_()(thC:: __________ _
-rates oceurririg_at_tlie-begfonlng-and aTtile-eiid of the period, find the outflow at the end of half hour
period.
Hence plot to a suitable scale the inflow and outflow "hydro graphs.
10. What are the factors on which the rate of silting of an ~mpounding reservoir depends? What is
trap efficiency? c
Discuss the principal measures that should be undertaken to control the inflow sediment to an
11
impounding reservoir.
An impounding reservoir had original storage capacity for 738 ha-m. The drainage area of the
reservoir is 80 sq. km, from which, annual sediment discharges into the reservoir at the rate 0.1153 ha-m
per sq. km. of the drainage area. Assuming the trap efficiency as 80 per cent. find the annual capacity
loss of the reservoir in per cent per year. (U.P.S. C.. E11gg. Services, 1969)
[Ans. 10%]
11. Write short notes on any four of the following :
(i) Reservoir losses (ii) Reservoir clearance
(iii) Economic height of a dam
(iv) Cost benefit considerations in planning dam reservoirs.
[Note. Please See Chapter 20 of "Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering"]
(v} Reservoir sedimentation and its control -
(vi) Density currents
(vii) Trap efficiency
(viii) Estimating the life of a reservoir.
_19
Design and Construction of Gravity Dams
19.1. Definition, etc.
A gravity dam has been defined as a structure which is designed in' such a way .that
its own weight resists the external forces. This type of a structure is most durable and
solid, and requires very little maintenance. Such a dam may be constructed of masonry
or concrete. However, concrete gravity dams are preferred these days and mostly con-
structed. They can be constructed with ease on any dam site, where there exists a natural
foundation strong enough to bear the enormous weight of the dam. Such a dam is
generally straight in plan, although sometimes, it may be slightly curve. The line of the
upstream face of the dam, or the line of the crown of the dam if the upstream face in
sloping, is taker:i as the reference line for layout purposes, etc. and is known as the Base
line of the dam or the 'Axis.of the Dam'. When suitable conditions are available, such
dams car be constructed up to great heights. The highest gravity .dam in the world is
Grand Dixence Dan:i in Switzerland (284
m), followed by · Bhakra dam in India
(226 m); both are of concrete gravity
type. The ratio of base width to height of
Upstream face
all these structures is less than 1 : 1. may be vertical
or slanting
19.2. Typical Cross-section
A typical cioss~section ofa concrete - Drain~ge gallery
. dam is
gravity . shown m . F..1g. 19 . l . The Slanting face
.
Vertical face
upstream face may by kept throughout ver-
Heel Toe
tical or partly slanting for SO!lle of its
length, as shown. A drainage gallery i~ --S6m
....
1.. --~.. 1
provided in order to relieve the uplift pres-
sure exerted by the seeping water. Fig. 19.1. A typical cross-.section of ·
a concrete gravity dam. ·
19.3. Forces Acting on Gravity Dam
The various external forces acting on a gravity dam may be : I
(1) Water Pressure
--(-2)-Bplift-Pressure-----------.----·---- ·--- -
(3) Pressure due to earthquake forces
-----1I
(4) Silt Pressure I
(5) Wave Pressure
(6) Ice Pressure
· (7)The stabilising force is the weight of the dam itself.
984
An estimation and description of these forces is
given below : ·
(1) Water Pressure. Water pressure (P) is the
a
most major external force acting on such dam. The
.horizontal water pressure, exerted by the weight of
the water stored on the upstream side on the dam can
be estimated from rule of hydrostatic press"ure dis-
tribution ; which is triangular in shape, as shown in
Fig. 19.2 (a) and (b). When the upstreamface is ver-
tical; the intensity is zero at the water surface and
Where 'Yw =unit weight of water
equal to YwH at the base ; where Yw is the unit weight 9.81 kN/m3 = 1000 kgf/m 3
of water and His the depth of water : as shown in Fig. Fig. 19.2. (a)
19.2 (a). The resultant force due to this external water
±
= ywfi2, acting at H/3 from base.
When the upstream face is partly vertical and partly inclined [Fig. 19.2 (b)], the
resulting water force can be resolved into horizontal component (P1J and vertical com-
. 1 H
ponent (P v). The horizontal component Ph= I Yw H2 ,acts at 3 from the base ; and the
vertical component cPv) is equal to the weight of the water stored in column ABCA and
acts at the e.g. of the area.
Similarly, if there is tail water on the downstream side, it will have horizontal and
vertical components, as shown in Fig. 19.2, (b).
Fig. 19.2 (b)

(2) UpHft Pressure. Water seeping through the pores, cracks and fissures of the
foundation material, and water seeping through dam body and then to the bottom through
the joints between the body of the dam and its foundation at the base ; exert an uplift
press-tire- ori the base of the dam. It is the second major-e)aernalforce anom-1.lsf be-
accounted for in all calculations. Such an uplift force virtually reduces the downward
. weight of the body of the dam and hence, a"ts against the dam stability.
The amount of uplift is a matter of research and the present recommendations which
are followed, are those suggested by United States Bureau of Reclamation (U.S.B.R.).
According to these recommendations, the uplift pressure intensities at the heel and the
toe should be taken equal to their respective hydrostatic pressures and joined by a
/!---No drainage .
.. g_?ller~,. ;~---...~~=
J--'1----.i ' . "
, "
....·.
: .. '
- ... - .
Pu
Fig. 19.3 (a) Uplift pressure (U) diagram, Fig. 19.3 (b) Uplift pressure (U) diagram,
when no drainage gallery is provided. when drainage gallery is provided.
straight line in between, as shown in Fig. 19.3 (a). When drainage galleries are provided
to relieve the uplift, the recommended uplift at the face of the gallery is equal to the
hydrostatic pressure at toe (Yw · H') plus trd the difference of the hydrostatic pressures
t
at the lieel and the toe ; as shown in Fig. 19.3 (b) ; i.e. [ Yw · H' + (Yw · H -Yw 'H') J It
is also assumed that the uplift pressures are not affected by the earthquake forces.
The uplift pressures can be controlled by constructing cut-off walls under the
upstream face, by constructing drainage channels between the dam and its foundation,
and by pressure grouti'"g the. foundation.
. .
(3) Earthquake Forces. If the dam to be designed, is to be located in a region which

is susceptible to earthquakes, allowance must be made for the stresses generated by the
earthquakes.
An earthquake produces waves which are capable of shaking the Earth upo~ which
the dam is resting, in every possible direction.
The effect of an earthquake is, therefore, equivalent to imparting an acceleration to.
the foundations of the dam iri the direction in which the wave is travelling at the moment.
Earthquake wave may move in any direction, and for design purposes, it has to be
resolved in vertical and horizontal components. Hence, two accelerations, i.e. one
horizontal acceleration (ah) and one vertical acceleration (av) are induced by an
earthquake. The values of these accelerations are generally expressed as percentage of
the acceleration due ·tO gravity (g};i:-e:-a--0~1-g-or 0.-2-g, etc ... _________ ---...:C-~---
ln India, the entire country has been divided into five seismic zones depending upon
the severity of the earthquakes. Zone Vis the most serious zone and includes Himalayan
regions of NortJ::i India. A map and description of these·zones is available in "Physical
and Engineering Geology" (1999 edition) by the same author, and can be referred to, in
order to obtain an idea of the value of the a which should be chosen for designs. On an
average, a value of a equal to 0.1 to 0. 15 g is generally sufficient for high daqs in
seismic zones. A vaiue equal to 0.15 g has been used in ~hakra dam design, and 0.2 g
in Ramganga -dam design. However, for areas not subjected to extreme earthquakes,
ah= 0.1 g and av= 0.05 g may by used. In areas of no earthquakes or very less
earthquakes, these forces may be neglected. In extremely seismic regions and in con-
servative designs, even a value upto 0.3 _g may sometimes be adopted. -
Effect of vertical acceleration (CXy). A vertical acceleration may either act
downward or upward. When it is acting in the upward direction, then the foundation of
the dam will be lifted upward and becomes closer to the body of the dam, and thus the
effective weight of the dam will increase and hence, the ~tress developed will increase.
When the vertical acceleration is acting downward, the foundation shall try to move
downward away from the dam body ; thus reducing the effective weight and the stability
of the dam, and hence is the worst case for designs ..
Such acceleration will, therefore, exert an inertia force given by
W CXy (i.e. force= Mass x Acceleration)

g
where W is the total weight of the darn.
:. The net effective weight of the dam= W- W ·av.

g
If
[where kv is the fraction of gravity adopted for ver-
tical acceler-at:ion, such as 0.1 or 0.2, etc.].
Then, the net effective weight of the darn
=W - W · ky · g =W [ 1 - kvJ.
g
In other words, vertical acceleration reduces the unit weight of the darn material
and that of water to (I - ky) times their original unit weights.
Effects of horizonta{acceieration. (ah). Horizontal acceleration may cause the
·following two forces :
(i) Hydrodynamic pressure ; and
(ii) Horizontal inertia force.
1
Both these forces are discussed below :
\ (i) Hydrodynamic pressures. Horizontal acceleration acting towards the reservoir
' ;:f: causes a momentary increase in the water
:::--.=::::-=-- =--H::-: j,:::·t:':{.·'.;l·.·:j:·,;,.:':··.

·;, -
~:~:::r~~o~a:~; t~~~::::~~: :~~ t~::a~~~
resists the movement owing to its inertia.
· · ... · The extra pressure exerted by this process
(:{':oJ.;\,,,
l
is known as hydrodynamic pressure.
A.H=0·424H
31r . -. .. -·,__ ___
-f._·'.~·::·~,~~-~~;'A, According to Von-Karman, the
..._.......- __.v_...'-·~~ amounrof'tnirhydrodynamiG-force (Ee)_i:i.
\.o:--Pe-j
Hydrodynamic given by.
prizssure distr'1bution 2
. d 1 Pe= 0.555. kh Yw. H ... (19.1)
Fig. 19.4. Showmg eve opment of
Hydrodynamic pressure by a horizontal and it acts at the height of 43Hrc above the
earthquake moving towards the reservoir. A
similar pressure will be developed on dis tail base, as shown in Fig. 19.4.
water when th~ earthquake is reversed.
where kh is the fraction of gravity adopted for

horizontal acceleration, such as 0.1, 0.2
etc.
Yw = unit wt. of water
Moment of this force about base
=Me= Pe (~!J= 0.424 Pe. H ... (19.2)
Zanger.has given certain-big.formulas for evaluating theamoi.mLoLthis force and_

its· position, etc. on the vertical as well as on an inclined faces. The results of these big
formulas are quite comparable to those given by Von-Karman equation and hence, for
average ordinary purposes, the Von-Karman equation (19.1) is sufficient.
Zanger's formula for hydrodynamic force. According to Zanger
Pe= 0.726pe · H ... (19.3)
where Pe =-Cm kn · Yw · H ... (19.4)
Pe= 0.726 Cm. kh. Yw. H2 ... (19.5)
where Cm= Maximum value of pressure co-efficient
for a given constant slope
= 0.735(990 °} .. (19.6)
where~ is the angle in degrees, which the
u/s face of the dam makes with the
horizontal.
kh = fraction of gravity adopted for horizontal
acceleration (a.J such as ah= kh · g _
Yw = unit w.t. of water
The moment of this force about the base is given as :
2 ... (19.7)
Me= 0.299 Pe· H
p
= 0.299 0.?2~. H · H
or Me=0.412Pe·H ... (19.8)
It was further stated, that

if the upstream face is partly .;,:_ ·.
inclined (Fig. 19.5 _a), V.:.hich ~ /.' __._
- - aoes not extendto more-tliruf-'t~-~-'" {~ · --
half the depth of the reservoir,
it can be taken as vertical. If u·
H_.:h
;.~-; "·~
~: ::.:··:::
the slope extends to more than/ H .f:~:··:.>""'.~~.. :-.
halfthedepth(Fig.19.5b),the_.· <2:
~:>.-.:._-~ ~~::'~':
overall slope up to the whole -• 1• .. ~ • -. • ... • ..
height may be taken as the Slope to. be
. . (l )
va l ue of e m equat10n 9 .6
neglected :. 9=90
'
0
above. (a) (b)

Fig. 1,9.5
•
Zanger's formulae are given in details in U.S.B.R. publication on design of small
dams, which may be referred to in particular special needs.
(ii) Horizontal Inertia Force. In addition to exerting the hydrodynamic pressure, the
horizontal acceleration produces an inertia force into the body of the dam. This force is
generated in order to keep the body and the foundation of the dam together as one piece.
The direction of the produced force will be opposite to the acceleration imparted by the
earthquake.
Since an earthquake may impart either upstream or downstream acceleration, we
have to choose the direction of this force _in our stability analysis of dam structure, in
such a way that it produces most unfavorable effects under the-co~sidered cOnditions.
Say for example, when the reservoir is f1Jll, this force would produce worst results
if it additive to the hydrostatic water pressure, thus acting towards 'the downstream (i.e.
when upstream earthquake acceleration towards the reservoir is produced). When the
reservoir is empty, this force would produce worst results, if considered to be acting
upstream (i.e. when earthquake acceleration, moving towards downstream, is produced).
Under reservoir empty conditions, earthquake forces produce effects, which may
cause slight tension near the toe ; and hence stability analysis for reservoir empty case
may be carried out only on the basis of wt. of the dam by ignoring earthquake forces
and keeping the section free from any tension. However, for all precise designs, these
forces must be fully considered, as we have done in example 19.2.
The amount of this horizontal inertial force is equal to the product of the mass of
the dam and the acceleration.
:. This horizontal Inertia force
=(:)ah= :·kh·g=W·kh ... (19.9)

(where kh is the fraction of gravity adopted for
horizontal acceleration, such as 0.1, or 0.2, etc.).
This force should be considered to be acting at the centre of gravity of the mass,
regardless of the shape of the cross- section, a~d it acts horizontally downstream in worst
cases, for reservoir full case.
(4) Silt Pressure. It has been explained under 'Reservoir Sedimentation' in chapter
18 that silt gets deposited against the upstream face of the dam. If his the height of silt ·
deposited, then the force exerted by this silt in addition to external water pressure, can
be represented by Rankine's formula as : · -
Psilt =_!2 · Ysub · h2 Ka and it acts at!!:._

3.
from base ... (19.10)
where Ka is the coefficient of active earth pressure
1- sin<!> .
-ofsilt . ;;; where-<1>-1s-the angle_ of . _
1 +sm't'
internal friction of soil, and cohesion is
neglected.
Ysub = sµbmerged unit weight of silt material.
h = height of silt deposited.
If the upstream face is inclined, the vertical weight of the silt supported on the slope
also acts as a vertical force.
\..,·
990 _ IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
In the absence of any reliable data for the type of silt that is going to be deposited,
U.S.B.R. recommendations may be adopted. In these recommendations, deposited silt
may be taken as equivalent to a fluid exerting a force with a unit wt. equal to· 3.6
kN/m3 in the horizontal direction and a vertical force with a unit wt. of 9.2 kN/m 3.
~
2
2
Hence, the total horizontal force will be 3.6 = 1.8 h kN/m run, and vertical force will
h2
be 9.2 · T =4.6 h2 kN/m run.
In most of the gravity-dam designs, the silt pressure is neglected. The basis for
neglecting this force.is that :
Initially, the sili load is not present, and by the time it becomes significant, it gets
consolidated to some extent and, therefore, acts less like a fluid. Moreover, silt deposited
in !he reservoir is somewhat impervious and, therefore, will help to minimise the uplift
under the dam. -
(5) Wave .Pressure. Waves are generated on the surface of the reservoir by the
blowing winds, which causes a pressure towards the downstream side. Wave pressure
depends upon the wave height. Wave height may be given by the equation,
hw = 0.032 ~ + 0.763 - 0.271 (F) 314 for F < 32 km, and ... (19.11)
hw = 0.032 ..fV:F" for F > 32 km ... (19.12)
where hw = height of water from top of crest to bot-
tom of trough in metres.
V = wind velocity in km/hr.
F = Fetch or straight length of water expanse
in km.
The maximum pressure intensity:due to wave-caction may by- given by
hw
Pw = 2.4 'Yw · hw and acts at 2 metres above the still water surface.
Sh
The pressure distribution may be assumed to be triangular, of height w, as shown
3
in Fig. 19.6.
Fig. 19.6 ·
Hence, the total force due to wave action (Pw)
1 5
=l (2.4 'Yw · hw) · 3 · hw
or Pw=2 · Yw · h~=2x 9.81 ~ kN/m
= 19.62h~ kN/m ... (19.14)
This force acts at a distance i hw above the reservoir surface.
(6) Ice Pressure. The ice which may be formed on the water surface of the reservoir
in cold countries, may sometimes melt and expand. The dam face has then to resist the
thrust exerted by the expanding ice. This force acts linearly along the length of the dam
and at the reservoir level. The magnitude of this force varies from 250 to 1500 kN/m 2
depending upon temperature variations. On an average, a value of 500 kN/m 2 may be
allowed under ordinary conditions.
(7) Weight of the Dam, The weight of the dam body and its foundation is the major
resisting force. In two dimensional analysis of a gravity dam, a unit length of the dam
is considered. The cross-section can then be divided into rectangles and triangles. The
weight of each along with their c.gs., can be determined. The resultant of all these
downward forces will represent the total weight of the dam acting at the e.g. of the dam.
Combination of forces for Designs. The design of a gravity dam should be checked
for two cases, i.e. (i) when Reservoir is full ; and (ii) when Reservoir is empty.
(i) Case I. Reservoir full case :
When reservoir is full, the m~jor forces acting are : weight of the dam, external
water pressure, uplift pressure, and earthquake forces in serious seismic zones. The
minor forces are : silt pressure, ice pressure and wave pressure. For the most conserva-
tive designs, and from purely theoretical point of view, one can say that a situation may
arise when all the forces may act together. But such a situation will never arise and
hence, all the forces are not generally taken together. U.S.B.R. has classified the 'normal
load combinations' and 'extreme load combination, as given below :
(a) Normal Load Combinations
(i) Water pressure upto normal pool level,. normal uplift, silt pressure and ice
pressure. This class of loading is taken when ice force is serious.
(ii) Water pressure upto normal pool level, normal uplift, earthquake force.s, and
silt pressure.
(iii) Water pressure upto maximum reservoir level (maximum pool level), normal
uplift, and silt pressure.
(b) Extreme Load Combinations
(i) Water pressure due to maximum pool levcl, extreme uplift pressure witho_ut any
reduction due to drainage and silt pressure. -
Case II. Reservoir empty case :
(i)- Empty rese-rvo1r -w-ithout eartlicfuake- fotce-s-ro-be-computed-for-determining-
bending diagrams, etc. for reinforcement design, for grouting studies or other puiyoses.
(ii) Empty reservoir with a horizontal earthquake force produced towards the
upstream has to be checked for non- development of tension at toe. ·
19.4. Modes of Failure and Criteria for Structural Stability of Gravity Dams
A gravity dam may fail in the following ways :
(1) By overturning (or rotation) about the toe.
(2} By crushing.
(3) By development of tension, causing ultimate failure by crushing.
(4) By shear failure called sliding.
The failure may occur at the foundation plane (i.e. at the base of the dam) or at any
other plane at higher level.
(lj Over-turning. If the resultant of all the- forces acting on a dam at any of its
sections, passes outside the toe, the dam shall rotate and overturn about the toe. Practi-
cally, such a condition shall not arise, as the dam will fail much earlier by compression.
The ratio of the righting moments about toe (anti clockwise) to the over turning moments
about toe (clock-wise) is called the factor of safety against overturning. Its value,
generally varies between 2 to 3.
(2) Compression or crushing. A dam may fail by the failure of its materials, i.e.
the compressive stresses produced may exceed the allowable stresses, and the dam-
material may get crushed. The vertical direct stress distribution at the baseis given by
the equation :
p =Direct stress+ Bendihg stress.
Pma_x
mm
= L.V + M = L.V + L.V · e =L.V
B - I y B - 2
B 16
B
[i +
- B
6e]
or · .r.v[ 6e]
Pm~=B l±B ... (19.15)
mm
where e = Eccentricity of the resultant force from
the centre of the base.
L.V = Total vertical force.
· B = Base\.VidtH. -·-· ·
Note. Resultant is nearer the· toe and hence,

maximum compressive stress is produced at the toe
(Reservoir full case)
Heel · Toe
l-~ ·I·~~~
. PmirP~.!TaxH-
1t+ver~· 3
· · / + l:imax
.L Comp. · J_
Pmin - .
. if -vet Tension ·
Fig. 19. 7. (a) Vertical Stress Distribution for Reservoir Full case.
The maximum stress, i.e. Pmax• will be produced on the end which is nearer to the
resultant, as shown in Fig. 19.7 (a) and (b).
Not.,, The resultant is nearer the heel and hence,

maximum compressive stress (+ve stress) is
produced at the heel (Reservoir empty with
horizontal earthquake wave moving away from
reservoir-case).
Fig. 19.7. (b) Vertical Stress Distribution for Reservoir Empty case.
If Pmin comes out to be negative, it means that tension shall be produced at the
appropriate end.
If Pmin exceeds the allowable compressive stress of dam material [generally taken
as 3000kN/m2 (30 kg/cm2) for concrete]; the dam may crush and fail by crushing.
(3) Tension. Masonry and concrete gravity dams are usually designed in such a way
that no tension is developed anywhere, because these materials cannot withstand sus-
. tained tensile stresses. If subjected to such stresses, these materials may finally crack.
However, for achie.vingeq:mo:ro.y in _desig_11~ of very high gravity dams, certain amount
of tension may be permitted under severest loading condition:· TuiS iriay be permitted.
because of the fact that such worst loading conditions shall occur only momentarily for
a little time and would neither last long nor occur frequently. The maximum permissible
tensile stress for high concrete gravity dams, under worst leadings, may be taken as
500 kN/m2 (5 kg/cm 2).
Effect produced by tension cracks. In a dam, when such a tension crack develops,
say at the heel, crack width (or strictly speaking crack-area) looses contact with the
bottom foundations, and thus, becomes ineffective.
Hence, the effective width B (considering unit length) of the dam base will be
reduced. This will increase Pm= at the toe.
-· · ~-Mereever,-the--upli.ft...pressure_diagram_geJs_IDodified due. to crack formation, as
shown in Fig. 19.8, resulting in an increase in the uplift. Since the uplift increases and
the net effe~tive downward force reduces, the resultant will shift more towards the toe
and thus further increasing the compressive stress at the toe and further lengthening the
crack due to further tension development. The process continues ; the effective base
width goes on reducing and compressive· stress at the toe goes on increasing ; finally
leading to the failure of the toe by direct compression. Hence, a tension crack by itself
does not fail the structure, but it leads to the failure of the structure by producing
excessive compressive stresses.
ABC= old uplift diagram

A'B'C =New uplift diagram after
the crack AA'; has devloped.
Fig. 19.8
In order to ensure that no tension is developed anywhere, we must ensure that
Pmin is at the most equal to zero.
Since Pm~x- B l +
_ LV[ _ 6e]
B ... (19:15)
mm
Pmin = ~ [1 - ~]
If Pmin=O,
~[1-~J=o
or l -6e = 0
B
B
or e=6·
Hence, maximum value of eccentricity that can be permitted on either side of the,
centreis-equano ~;·which lecads to the famous statement : the resultant must. lie wiihin
the middle third.
(4) Sliding. Sliding (or shear failure) will occur when the net horizontal force above
any plane in the dam or at the base of the dame exceeds the· frictional resistance
x
developed at that level.
The friction developed between two surfaces is equal to
µIV., (Fig. 19.9) where LV is the algebraic sum of all the External forces :rn
vertical forces whether upward or downward, and µ is the
coefficient of friction between the two surfaces. In order that V
no sliding takes place, the external horizontal forces (rH)
must be l.ess than the shear resistance µ · LV. "<"
.. . . · .. . . .
-or-----~-H-<·1::d~-V-.~-----:----------·----------·-·----------.
µ"V=DeveloQed
- - - friction
· - ·· · .....
µ~V Fig. 19.9
or L:>l 1 j
µ ;;;v represents nothing but the factor of safety against sliding, which must be greater
than unity.
:. F.S.S. (Factor of safety against sliding)= µ ~~V·

In low dams, the safety against sliding should be checked only for friction, but in
high dams, for economical precise designs, the shear strength of the joint, which is an
additional shear resistance, must also be considered. If this shear resistance of the joint
is also considered, then the equation for factor of safety against sliding which is
measured by shear friction factor (S.F.F.) becomes
S .FF
= µLV + B · q ... (19.16)
. . LH
where B = width of the dam at the joint,
q = Average shear strength of the joint which
varies from about 1400 kN/m 2
(14 kg/cm 2) for poor rocks to about 4000
kN/m 2 (40 kg/cm 2) for good rocks.
The value ofµ generally varies from 0.65
to 0.75.
Attempts are always made to increase this shear strength (q) at the base and at other
joints. For this purpose, foundation is stepped at the base, as shown in Fig. 19.10 and
measures are taken to ensure a better bond between the dam base and the rock-foundation.
During the construction of a dam,
Horizontal
horizontal joints have to be left as shown ="=-=''=°'=-=:-=--=--::1 Joints
in Fig. 19.10. The shear strength of these
joints should be made as good as possible - - - - -
by ensuring better bond between the two
surfaces. For this purpose, the lower sur-
face must be thoroughly cleaned and a
layer of neat cement or rich cement mortar
should qe spread before pouring the stan_d::--
ard concrete mix for the upper layer. If
these precautions of quality control are not Fig. 19.10
adhered to in the filed, the assumption
made in accounting for this shear strength in the design, will not be justified. That is
why, for small dams, where quality control is less, this shear strength of the joint is not
taken into account at all, while determining the shear friction factor or factor of safety
·against sliding.
19.4.1. Principal and Shear Stresses. The vertical stress intensity, Pmax or Pmin
determined from the equation (19.15) is not the maximum direct stress produced
anywhere in the dam. The maximum nor-
mal stress will, in fact, be the major prin-
cipaLstress-thaLwiILbe--generated on the
major principal plane. When the reservoir
is full, the vertical direct stress [given by
equation (19 .15), and represented by Pv in
future] is maximum at the toe as the resul-
Small tant is nearer to the toe. To study the prin-
element
ABC cipal stresses that will develop near the
pv(rnax) toe, let us consider a small element ABC
[See Fig. 19.11 (a) and (b)] near the toe of
Fig. 19.11 (a)
996 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURE.'1
the dam. The element is so small

that the stress intensities may be
assumed to be uniform on its
faces.
Let the downstream face of
the dam be inclined at an angle a
to the vertical.
This face of the ciam will act
as a principal plane because the
water pressure p' acts at right 1'. Shear P'll'"db
stress d b - - - - - - - ;
angles to the face, and also there
is no shear stress acting on this Fig. 19.11. (b) Enlarged view of small
plane. Since the principal planes element ABC of Fig. 19.11 (a).
are at right angles to each other ;
the plane BC drawn at right angles to the face AB will be the second principal plane.
Let the stress acting on this plane be cr. -
Let ds, dr and db be the lengths of AB, BC and CA respectively. p' is the intensity of
water pressure on face AB and Pv is the intensity of vertical pressure on face AC, and cr
is the intensity of normal stress (principal stress) on face BC. Considering unit length
of the dam, the forces acting on the faces AB, BC and CA are p' ds, cr dr and JJv · db
respectively.
Resolving all the forces in the vertical direction, we get
p' · ds · sin a+ cr · dr · cos a= Pv · db,
Now ~~ = sin a, or ds = db · sin a.
·df.
db= cos a, or dr= db. c~s a.
p' · (db · sin a) · sin a+ cr · (db · cos a) cos a= Pv · db
or p' · sin2 a + cr · cos2 a= Pv·
2
cr =Pv - p . sm a
I •
or
cos2 a
or a= Pv · sec 2
a - p' tan2 a I ... (19.17)
FM cr to be maximum, p' should be zero, i.e. when there is no tail water ; then in
such a case
------ -·--·_·-·cr'- py-·-sec2-a _ ___ _.....::__.._.[12..l]_(q)J__
Since sec 2 a is always more than 1, it follows, that cr will be more than Pv· This
value of normal stress, which is ·the maximum produced anywhere in the body of the
dam, must be calculated and should not be allowed to exceed the maximum allowable
~~~~ef~~~ II
If the hydrodynamic pressure (p/) exerted by the tail water during an earthquake .
moving towards the reservoir is also considered, then the. net pressure on the face. AB
will be (p' - p/), because the effect of this earthquake will be to reduce the tail water
pressure.
The principal stress (cr) can then be given by
or I crattoe =pv. sec2 ex.- (p' - p/) tan2 a. I ... (19.18)
The equation for cr, derived above for the element at the toe is also applicable to
the element at the heel. The equation at the heel is, therefore, given as :
cr1 = C1a1 11u1= p.., · sec2 <1>- (p +Pe) tan2 <l> ... (19.19)
where cl> is the angle which the u/s face makes with vertical.
But at the heel, the pressure of water pis always more than cr, and hence, p will be
the minor principal stress at the heel. -
Shear stress on the horizontal plane near the toe. A shear stress 't will act on the
face CA on which the vertical stress.is acting. Resolving all the forces [Fig. 19.11 (b)]
in the horizontal direction, we get
cr · dr sin ex. - p' · ds · cos ex. = 'to · db
_or cr · (db· cos ex.) sin ex. - p' (db· sin c:l) cos ex.= 'to· db
or cr · sin ex. cos ex. - p' sin ex. cos ex.= 'to
_or 'to = (cr - p') sin ex. c.os ex.
Substituting the value of cr from equation (19.17), we get
J
'to= [ Pv sec2 ex. - p' tan2 ex. - p' sin ex. cos ex.
J
'to= [Pv sec ex. - p' (1 + tan2 ex.)] sin ex. cos ex.~ [ (pv - p') sec 2 ex. sin ex. cos ex.
2
or = [(pv - p') sec2 ex. · sin ex. · cos ex.}
or / 't=(pv-p')fancx. I ... (19.20)

- Neglecting tail water, s_hear stress is giv~n by
'to= Pv ·.fan ex. ... [19.20 (a)]
If the effect of hydrodynamic pressure produced by an earthquake moving towards
the reservoir, is also considered, the equation for shear stress on .a horizontal plane near
the toe becomes,
'to=[pv-(p'-p/)]tana ... (19.21)
. Similarly, shear stress at heel
- l
= 'to (heel) ~ [Pv - (p +Pe) tan <1>
-ve sign shows that the direction is reverse-3.
Max. W. L. - _I Li_m
--,.., . -
1
Example 19.1. Fig. 19.12 (a) shows the sec- R.Lc285·0 --R.L.=289·0
tiOn of a gravity dam (non-overflow portion) =--=--;_-,..= .: ."':. \
-built-'ofconaete. ----------------~----i
Calculate (neglecting earthquake effects)

(i) The maximum vertical stresses at the
heel and toe of the dam.
(ii) The major principal stress at the toe of
R.L~~Q~·.9~---·-----
the dam.
(iii) The intensity of shear stress on a ~sGrrr-1
horizantal plane near the toe. Fig. 19.12 (a)
Assume weight of concrete = 23.5 kN!m3 ; and unit length of dam. Allowable stress
in concrete may be taken 2500 kN!m2
Solution. Assuming Yw = 9.81 kN/m 3 ; the various forces acting on the dam are
drawn in Fig. 19.12 (b).
_L_ 6rn/- . "
4m . ,
u/s D/S
H=80m
75rn.
U4
U3
fw.H'+~('(v,. H-rwH J
1
=9·81 [6 .. ~ (80- 6J] =300·8 kN/m2.
Fig. 19.i2 (b)

Consider 1 m length of the dam.
The various forces and their moments al:iout the toe are then calculated and tabulated
in Table 19 .1. From this table, we have
Distance of resultant from the toe
(X)=LM
LV
= 7,77,639kN · m = 18 06
43050kN · m
18-:-06 =28-:"-rs~o6-=9~94_m _
56
--H---Eec-entrrcity =-'-e= 2-
Vertical stress Pv is given as :
Pv
=Lvr +6e]
B I 1- B
L
Pv= 43~~~kN [1±6 X~94] = 768.8(1±1.065)

Table 19.1
Name of Designation Magnitude in Lever arm Moments about toe in

the force if given kN inm kN.m
Vertical forces
Downward weight W1 (+) 84 x 6 x 1 x 23.5 = 11,844 53.0 (+) 6,27,732
of the darn
Wz (+) tx50x75x 1 x23.5=44,063 33.33 (+) 14,68,620
Weight of water - .
- ·--- -- (+) tx4x6x 1 x9.81 =118 1.33 (+) 157 - .
supported.on.d/s face
l:Vi =56,025 l:M1 = (+) 20,96,509
Uplift pressures U1 (-) 300.8 x 8 x 1 = 2406 52.0 (-) 1,25,112
~·
U2 (-) t x 484 x 8 x 1 = 1936 53.33 (-) 1,03,247
U3 (-) 58.9 x 48 x 1 = 2827 . 24.0 (-) 67,848

'
U4. (-) t x 241.9 x 48 x 1=5806 32.0 (-) 1,85,792
rvz = (-) 12,975 l:M2 = (-) 4,81,999

l:V= 56,025- 12,975 = 43050
Horizonal
Water pressure
On u/s face p t x 784.8 x 80 x 1=31,392 26.67 (-) 8,37,225
On d/s face P' (-) tx58.9x6=(-) 177 2.0 (+) 354
l:H (towards downstream)= 31,215 r = (-) 8,36,871
l
rM =Net(+) moment= 20,96,509- 4,81,999- 8,36,871=7,77,639 kN-m
:. Max. vertical stress= Pmax at toe= 768.8 x 2.065 = 1587.6 kN/m2

. . Ans.
, r·· Min. vertical stress= Pmin at heel= 768.8 x (-) 0.065 = (-) 49.97 kN/m2
(ii) Major principal stress at toe (cr) is given by. Eq. (19 .17) as :
. 2 I 2
cr = Pv (roe) sec ex - p · tan .ex
2
here Pv(roe) = 1587.6kN/m
p' = 58.9 kN/m 2
2
tan ex=-
3
sec a.2 = 1 + tan 2 ex = 1 + = .!1
. 9 9
±
. . ·T3--·-·4------------- ·---~ ---··· ..
cr= 1587.6x9=58.9x9
= 2267 kN/m2 < 2500 kN/m2 (OK) Ans.
(iii) Intensity of shear stress on a horizontal plane near toe is given by equation
(19.20)
'to= [Pv<roe) - p'] tan ex
= 1587.6- 58.9) ~ = 1019.1 kN/m2• Ans.
STABILITY ANALYSIS
The stability of a gravity dam can be approximately and easily analysed by two
dimensional gravity method and can be precisely analysed by three dimensional methods
such as slab analogy method, trial load twist method, or by experimental studies on
models. Two dimensional gravity method is discussed below :
19.5. Gravity Method or Two Dimensional Stability Analysis
The preliminary analysis of all gravity dams can be made easily by isolating a
typical cross~section of the dam of a unit width. This section is assumed to behave
independently of the adjoining sections. In other words; the dam is considered to be
made up of a number of cantilevers of unit width each,. which act independently of e.ach
other. This assumption of independent functioning of each section, disregards the beam
action in the dam as a whole.
If the vertical transverse joints of the dam are not grouted or keyed together, this
assumption is nearly true. Hence, for wide 'U-shaped valleys, where transverse joints are
not generally grouted, this assumption is nearly satisfied. But for narrow V- shaped.
valleys, where the transverse joints are generally keyed together and the entire length
of the dam acts monolithically as a single body, this assumption may involve appreciable
errors. In such cases, preliminary designs may be done by gravhy method and· precise.
final designs may be carried out by any of the available three dimensional methods.
The description of the three dimensional methods is beyond the scope of this book,
and only the two dimensional analysis has been used for the design of gravity dams in
this chapter. ·
Assumptions. The various assumptions made in the two dimensional designs of
gravity dams are summarised below :
(i) The dam is considered to be composed of a number Of cantilevers,· each of
which is 1 m thick and each of which acts independent 6f the other ..
(ii) No loads are transferred to the abutments by beam action.
(iii) The foundation and the dam behave as a single unit ; the joint being perfect.
(iv) The materials in the foundation and body of the dam are isotropic and
homogeneous. ·
(v) The stresses developed in the foundation and body of the dam are within elastic
limits.
(vi) No movements of the foundations are caused due to transference of loads.
(vii) Small openings made in the body of the dam do not affect the general distribu- l
tion of stresses and they only produce local effects as per St. Venant's prin-
ciple. i
J
-··_.__. ·-Pr0-cedure-;-1'wo"'dimerrsional analysis can be carried out analytically or graphically~~·---~-[-
(a)
.
Analytical Method. The stability·
. .
of the dam can be analysed
.
in the following I
r
steps : · . · · . . /
. . . . I
(i) Consider unit length of the dam. ;j
(ii) Work out the magnitude and directions of all the vertical forces acting on the tl
dam and their algebraic sum, i.e. I:V. ;
(iii) Similarly, work out all the horizontal forces .and their algebraic sum, i.e. !H. I,,
,
:~
11
(iv) Determine the lever arm of all these forces about the toe.
(v) Determine the moments of all these forces about the tbe and find out the
algebraic sum of all those moments, i.e. LM. ·
(vi) Find out the location of the resultant force by determining i~s distance from
the toe,
- LM
x= I:V"
.(xii). Find out the eccentricity (e) of the resultant (R).usinge_= ~ - x. It must be less
than B/6 in order to ensure that no tension is developed anywhere in the dam.
(viii) Determine the vertical stresses at the toe and heel using Eq. (19.15), i.e.
Pv=~[l ± ~] ... (19.15)
Sometimes stresses are found by ignoring uplift.

(ix) Determine the maximum normal stresses, i.e. principal stresses at the toe and
the heel using equations (19.18) to (19.20). They should not exceed the max-
imum allowable values. The crushing strength of concrete varies between 1500
to 3000 kN/m2 depenting upon its grade M15 to M30.
(x) Determine the factor of safety against overturning as equal to
I: Stabilising moment(+) . . . .
~ . b' ( ) ; +ve sign is used for ant1-clockw1se moments and
~ D1stur mg moment -
-ve sign is used for clockwise moments.
(xi) Determine the factor of safety against sliding, using Sliding factor = 'W'·.
-. . . - .-.. -c:=---- -- ·- - ·-- -. -.- -- ---
H ---,=-f:LLV+ bq--
-----
Shear fnct10n factor (S.F.F.) - I:H .
Sliding factor must be greater than unity and S.F.F. must be greater than 3 to_
5-· The analysis should be carried out for reservoir full case as well as for
reservoir empty case. The entire procedure has been illustrated in example
19.2. -1·~H1~r--
(b) Graphical method. -- -- -- - - -- - --1--+~---t
--
In the graphical method, the
entire dam section is divided
into a number of horizontal Outer middle
third line
sections at some suitable in-
tervals, particularly at the Line of resultant
- Line cf resultant
force when the _
~--p~laces where the sfope clia:n- force when the ·- -r-e-servoTr'Ts-ruT1~--- -----
reservoir is empty
. ges, as shown in Fig. 19.13.
For each section, the sum of
the vertical forces (I:\!) and
the sum of all the horizontal
forces (LH) acting above that
particular section, are ~t------~ ---
worked out and the resuitant
Fig. 19.13
force (R) is drawn, graphi-
cally. This is done for each section and a line joining all the points where the individual
resultants cut the individual sections, is drawn. This line represents the resultant force
and should lie within the middle third, for no tension to develop. The procedure should
be carried out for reservoir full case as well as for reservoir empty case. The resultant
in both cases must show non-development of tension in the dam body.
19.6. Elementary Profile of a Gravity Dam
The elementary profile of a dam, subjected only to the external water pressure on
the upstream side, will be a right-angled triangle, having zero width at the water level
and a base width (B) at bottom i.e., the point where the maximum hydrostatic water
pressure acts. In other words, the shape of such a profile is similar to the shape of the
hydrostatic pressure distribution (Fig. 19.14).
TL __
H
P= External watar pressure or

Hydrostatic water pressure t r------..i
Toe
Li=Interncl wcte:r
pressure or uplift
I
~•~~~-B~~~~~
Fig. 19.14
When the reservoir is empty, the only single force acting on it is the self-weight
CW) of the dam and it acts at a distance B/3 from the heel. This is the maximum possible
innermost position of the resultant for no tension to develop. Hence, such a line of action
of Wis the most ideal, as it gives the maximum possible stabilising moment about the
toe without causing tension at toe, when the reservoir is empty. The vertical stress
distribution at the base, when the reservoir is empty, is given as :
Pmax/min= ~[l± ~]
Here I.V=W
B
e=6·
·- - - - .
· W[ 6·B]
Pmax/min =B 1±B. 6
2W
or Pmax=B
and Pmin=O.
2
Hence, the maximum vertical stress equal to ');' will act at the heel(": the resultant
is nearer the heel) and the vertical stress at toe will be zero.
4541;

When the reservoir is full, the bpse width is governed by·:
(i) The resultant of all .the forces, i.e .. P, Wand U (Fig. 19.14) passes through the
outer most middle third point (i.e. low.~r middle third point).
(ii) The dam is safe in sliding.
(i) For the 1st condition to be satisfied, we proceed as follows : Taking moments
of all the forces (Fig. 19.14) about the lower middle third point (i.e. the point through
which resultant is passing), we get
w(j)- u(j)-P~ =Rxo
B H
or (W-U)3-P3=0
1
But W= xBxBx 1 xScX"fw
2
where Sc= Sp. gravity of concrete, i.e . .that of the
material of the dam.
'Yw = unit wt. of water = 9 .81 kN/m 3
Let the uplift at the heel be C · 'Yw · H., where C is a constant which according to
U.S.B.R. recommendation is taken equal to 1.0 in calculation and will be equal to zero
when no uplift is considered.
and .
-
B H ·
:. Equation (W- U) 3'- P 3 = 0, becomes
l_ B. H. S ·"f _ l. C."' . H. B ·] !!.. _ 'Yw H2 . H = 0

[2 .C W 2 IW 3 2 3
3
B 1 YwH
or 3x2B · H· 'Yw ·[Sc-CJ = --
6
I or B2 (Sc - C) = H2
IB~~
_,J
I or ... (19 .22)
I
--H~-~~. if Bis ~ken equal to-or-greater tfiari~S1:_-C' ·noteh.sion will be developed
c
at the heel with full reservoir,
when C=l
H
B= ~Sc -1 ... (19.22 (a)]
If uplift is not considered, B =

.
4
'\/Sc
(·. · C = 0) ... (19.22 (b)]
(ii) For the II condition (i.e. dam is safe in sliding) to be satisfied ; the frictional
resistance µLV orµ (W - U) should be equal to or more than the horizontal forces
LH==P.
or ·
or
or
ot
or
Under limiting condition
or
IB~ µ(s7-CJ ... (19.23)
IfC==l B== H ... [19.23(a)]

µ(Sc - 1)
If C == 0, i.e. no uplift is considered, then
B > _!!_ ... [19.23(b)]
- µSc
The value of B chosen should be greater of the two values given by Equations
(19.22) and (19.23).
Using Sc= 2.4 andµ== 0.7-and C == 0, we get
B (by Equation 19.22) = -.J .:_

2 0
-.j~4
H H H
B (by Equation 19.23) = _ x (Z.4- O) = _ x .4 - _
07 07 2 1 68
But 1..H is
. less th an -.J H.4
68 2
:. For all practical purposes, the base width may be taken as _~

'i~c
The vertical stress distribution when reservoir is full is given as :
--·- -~--~---------:·~·1:V-[r+-6e_J
Pmax1mrn B - B
__: .-:---·--·· - --- - _________
· ~-
where l:V= W- U
. (l
= 2 B ·H · 1·S C
l
· vIW _ 2 C · '\IW
/ · H · B)
=21 B . Yw . H. [Sc - C]
B
e=-
6
1
2. B . 'Yw. H (Sc - C) [ 6B]
·• Pmax!min = B 1 ± 6B
maximum stress will occur at toe, because the resultant is near the toe.
1
~ .. Pmax at toe= l 'Yw · H (Sc - C) 2.0 ='Yw H (Sc - C)
J Pv at toe = 'Yw H (Sc - C) I ... (19.24)
Pmin at heel::: 0. - -
The principal stress near the toe (cr) which is the maximum normal stress in the
dam, is given by Equation (19.17)
cr = Pv sec2 a - p' tan2 a
when there is no tail water i.e., p' = 0
2
cr = Pv sec a
cr at toe, with full reservoir in elementary profile
= 'Yw H (Sc - C) sec2 a
= 'Yw H (Sc - C) [ 1 + tan2 a]
='Yw H (Sc - C) [ 1 + !:]

H
But B= .Ys _C from Eq. (19.22)
c
B2 1
or-=--
H2 Sc-C
~~'YwHCSc~C)[1+ s::-~Jc~ -
or /a=ywH(Sc-C+ 1) I ... (19.25)
when C= 1, Sc= 2.4

s(2.4-l+lj 2.4 H
cr = 'Yw 2.4- 1 j= 1.4 'Yw
= l.71 "fw H. -
The shear stress '.to at a horizontal plane near the toe is given by the equation (19 .20)
-~--'--as_: __ _
'to= <Pv - p') tan a

,
""1,/ If p'=O
I
'to = Pv tan a .
But Pv = 'Yw H (Sc- C) from Eq. (19.24)
'to= 'Yw H (Sc- C) tan a
B
or 'to= 'Yw · H (Sc - C) H
1
=ywHCSc-C) ~S -C
c
or ... (19.26)
19.7. High and Low Gravity Dams

The principal stress calculated for an elementary profile is given by Equation
(19.25), i.e. cr = Yw H (Sc - C + 1). The value bf principal stress calculated above varies
only with H, as all other factors are fixed:
To avoid dam failure by crushing, the value of cr should be less than or at the most
equal to the maximum allowable compressive stress of dam material. If f represents the
allowable stress of the dam material, then the maximum height (Hmax) which can be
obtained in an elementary profile, without exceeding the allowable compressive stresses
of the dam material, is given as :
f ="fw H (Sc- C+ 1)
or H=--~-
'Yw (Sc- C+ 1)
The lowest value of H will be obtained when C =0, i.e. when uplift is neglected.
Hence, for determining the limiting height and to be on a safer side, uplift is neglected.
Hmax> i.e. maximum possible height is giveri as :
H =-~-- ... (19.27)

max Yw (Sc+ 1)
Hence, if the height of a dam having

an elementary profile of a triangle, is .. -r-- ~
more than that given by the Equation I
H ::\
,, I
(19.27), the .maximum compressive stress Hmax = >,·'· =Total .·:..~.·.- .. Hmax
.- .• · ..
generated will exceed the allowable __r_ ::;:>.:! height · i-'. _
.. 1
value. In order to keep it safe within rw(Ss+i) }:):>~·-
'Low dam
°Jd1~gh .:;·., <:·_.·,._ ofLimiting
:.::: point.
Low dam
hm.1ts, extra slopes on the upstream .as J_>)~.":·{:'.\.1 ;_:_:-. :·:· : .-;. . I
well as on the downstream below the · -;-:--- ---- -- t _ - --
limiting height will have to be given, as .:.::.-.·:;.;,:.\~ ~.':\". :-.
. p· 5 . , . . 1 '., ·, •.
sh ownm ig.19.1. :·:.-.~-.···. ··::":,'.:·:-. .
..
.~·::::-.~·..~· : .... ·-~.,- ..·, ,·.·.,:,,".
This limiting height (Hma:J given by
Low gravity dam High gravity dam
Equation (19.27), draws a dividing line Fig. 19.15
between a low gravity dam and a high
-----gravity dram, whicfi-are-pUrelYteclinicaneri:trs'-to-differentiate-between t:hem.·
Hence, a low gravity dam is the one whose height is less than that given by Equation
(19.27). If the height of the dam is more than this, it is known as a high gravity dam.
The limiting height of a low concrete gravity dam, constructed in concrete having
strength equal to 3000 kN/m2 is thus given :-
H = f
max 'Yw (Sc+ 1)
··· ..........

where Yw =9.81 kN/m3
Sc= 2.4
f = 3000 kN/m2
3000
H
max
= Yw (Sc+
f
1)
90m
9.81(2.4+1)
19.8. Profile of a Dam from Practical Considerations

The elementary profile of a gravity dam, (i.e. a triangle with maximum water surface
at apex) is only a theoretical profile. Certain changes will haye !Q_Q~_ ~acie in this profile in
order to cater to the practical needs. These needs are : (i) providing a straight top width, for
a road construction over the top of the dam ; (ii)
providing a free-board above the top water
surface, so that water may not spill over the
top of the dam due to wave action, etc.
The additions of these two provisions,
will cause the resultant force to shift towards
the heel. The resultant force, when the reser-
voir is empty; was earlier passing through the
inner middle third point. This will, therefore,
shift more towards the heel, crossing the inner
middle third point and consequently, tensiori
will be developed at the toe. In order to avoid
the development of this tension, some mason-
ry or concrete will have to be added to the -4,~1.. fsc
Ba -~-
upstream side, as shown in Fig. 19.16, which Fig.19.16.
shows the typical section along with the pos- Typical section of a low gravity dam.
sible dimensionsthat can be adopted for a low _ . .
gravity dam section. It should, however, be checked for stability analysis.
19.9. Design Considerations and Fixing the.Section of a Dam
The free-board and top width for roadway should be selected as follows :
(i) Freeboard. The margin between the maximum reservoir level ar:id top of the
dam is known as freeboard. This must be provided in order to avoid the possibility of
water spilling ove~ the dam top due to wave action. This can also help as a safety for
unforeseen flo<?ds, higher than the designed flood.
The freeboard is generally
. .
provided equal
.
to lhw.
2
where h;,_ is given by Equatidns
(19.11) and (19.12). However, these days, a free-board equal to 4 to 5% of the dam
height is provided.
_._.~-·--~-JiD T<!P~ '!iclth. The effects produced by the addition of top width at the apex of an
elementary dam profile; andT!lefr-renieafos are-expliiineaoelOw""':-' c.: - · _c.c.... --·-~-.
In Fig. 19.17, let AEF be the triangular profile of dam of height H 1• Let the element
ABQA be added at the apex for providing a top width a for a road construction. Let
,I M1 and M2 be the inner third and outer third points on base. Thus, AM1 and AM2 are the
inner third and outer third lines. The weight of the element (W1) will act through the
e.g. of this triangle, i.e. along C.M. Let CM andAM1 cross at H, and CM and AM2 cross
atK.
1008 . IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
Reservoir Empty Case. We know that in the

elementary profile, the resultant of the forces
passes through the inner third point when the
reservoir is empty. In such a case, the addition
of W1 above the plane GHD will shift this initial
resultant towards the downstream side because
W1 lies downstream to the earlier resultant.
Similarly, the addition of L1 W1 'below the plane I
GHD will shift this initial resultant towards the \

i
upstream side, causing tension on the I
\
downstream. Hence, an upstream batter GF' W1 I
will have to be added below the plane GHD as F' F M, Mz E

shown in Fig. 19.17. Fig. 19.17
The height Hi' below which this upstream batter is required can be worked out as
below:
The·.1.AGD, is governed by Equation (19.22), i.e.
H
B= ...JSc -C
But
Also GH=AC=±_a
3
2a H{
3= 3 . .Ysc - c .
or H 1' = 2a · .Ysc - C ... (19.28)
Thus, for height greater than H 1', uls batter is necessary.
Reservoir full case. When the reservoir is full, the resultant of all the forces acting
on the elementary profile passes through the outer third point. When W 1 is added to this
initial resultant at any plane below the plane "PKQ, final resultant will shift towards the
~- -u{fStream siaeoecauseW1liesup-stream.--of-tne-i:11i:tiirl--resulranc Iri--ordeno-bring ·the
resultant back to the outer third point from economy point of view, the slope of the d/s
face may be flattened from QE to QE.
Thus, an increases in top width, will increase the masonry in the added element and
incl)'ease it on u/s face, but shall reduce it on dis face. The most economical top width,
without considering earthquake forces has been found by Creager to be equal to 14%
of the dam height. Its useful value varies between 6 to 10 m and is generally taken
approximately equal to W, where H is the height of max. water level above the bed.
19.10. Design of Gravity Dams
The section of gravity dam should be chosen in such a way that it is the most
economical section and satisfies all the conditions and requirements of stability. Hence,
after the section of the dam has been arrived at, the stability analysis for the dam must
be carried out.
To Decide whether the Dam is Low or High. First of all, the height of the dam
to be constructed, should be checked so as to ensure whether it is a low gravity dam or
a high gravity dam. If the height of the dam is less than that given by
Yw (Sc+ 1)
(where/is the permissible compressive stress of the
dam material and Sc is the Sp. gravity of the dam
material) ;
then the dam will be a low gravity dam, otherwise it will be a high gravity dam.
Even for a high gravity dam, the upper height H 1 :::;: Yw (Sc+ l) can be designed as a
low gravity dam and the remaining lower portion can be designed as explained a little
later.
· Design of Low Dam. The economical sec-
B
1- 0 -l C
tion of low gravity dam of height H 1 after decid- --,--~~
A
ing the top width a and freeboard, can be drawn ''
as shown in Fig. 19.18. '' D
The base width B1 of the Li All can be
chosen as given by Equation (19.22) as :
B1 =
or by Equation (19.23),
H1
.Ys -c
~ : B = µ (S~~.
1 C)
1,
H1
i
'I
Th~ upstream face can be kept vertical up to -G~--'~-------__.,J
a height H1' to be determined by trial, and whose ---B1 ,=J~:-c-----.....il
approximate 1st value may be chosen by Equa-
tion (19.28), as : Fig. 19.18
H1' =2a · .Ysc -
C.
Below this height H{, the upstream face as well as the downstream face are sloped
in such a manner that no tension is developed any-where in the dam, and the resultant
forces remain as-close- to -the outer third and inner-third-points as possible,-for--r:eser-v.oit"---
full and reservoir empty cases, respectively. This is accomplished by hit and trial
method, and when it is so accomplished, all the stability requirements will be satisfied.
The final shape of the dam will then be ABCDEFGHA.
The dis face can be brought inward from the point D itself rather than from the point
E (explained earlier). In such a case, the final .dam shape will be ABCDE' FGHA.
Sometimes, in practical conservative designs, the d/s slbpe is not at all brought inward
and is kept the same as· is obtained in an elementary profile. The final dam sh~pe, in
such a case, will be ABCDEJGHA.
T
1010 IRRIGATION BNGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
Note. However; in most of the practical conservative designs, the low gravity dam
is designed as per the provision of Fig. 19.16 and the dis slope is not brought inward.
Design of High Dam. When the height of the dam exceeds H1 given by
-~--; then its upper height equal to H 1 can be designed as low grayity dam as
Yw (Sc- 1)
explained earlier, and its remain- Base portion upto
Umiting ht designed
ing height can be designed by as low dam
dividing it into a number of
suitable strips as shown in Fig.
19.19. The design of each strip Y,
can be carried out as per the for-
mulas given below. The basis of
these formula is that, the maxi-
mum normal stress (i.e. principal - - - - 83-----'"'
stress) should not exceed the al- Ill Strip
lowable value (j), and at the same
i . - - - - - - - - - - ' - - 84 - - - - - - - -
time, the section should be as
economical as possible. Fig. 19.19
Design of I Strip
The total base width required at the bottom of th,e lst strip (BiJ is given by
B2 = "1 H~ [I +fw ·Hi]

Yw ·
f 4·W~
... [19.29 (a)]
where B 1 =Base width of low dame, i.e. the base

width at top of ls.t strip
B2 = Base widtb required at the bottom of 1st
strip - -
H 2 =Height of dam portion from M.W.L. to
the bottom of I strip
Yw = Unit weight of water.
f =Allowable compressive stress of the dam
material
W1 = Total vertical weight of dam and water,
above·the top of I strip
W2 = Total wt. of dam portion and water above
the bottom of I strip.
The increase of base width required on the upstream side, at the bottom of I strip
_._._(say..X2},.is_gi:Y:en_ by the..equatioil-c- __ ----'-- ---'-'--'------- _-'-'- -'- ______ -'---------=-
Yw · Sc ·YI ·[3 · B12 - B22 + 6 · X2 (B + B ) + 2B B ]
24 1 2 1 2
Yw·X2
-12[H1 +H2][2 ·B2-3X2]-W1 [B2-B1
3
]
. -X2 =0 ... [19.30 (a)]
The increase in width required on u/s, i.e. X2 can be determined from this equation.
Total width B2 is already known. Hence, the increase required on dls can be calculated
as (B2 - Bi - X2).
Design of II Strip
Equation [19.29 (a)] for the I strip can be changed to Equation [19.29 (b)] for the
II strip by changing suffixes as below
B =A
3 . \fIYw f. Hj [i fw4 .ml
+ W~ ... [19.29 (b)]
where H3 = Height of the dam portion from M.W.L.

to the bottom of the II strip
· W3 = Total vertical. wt. of the dam and water
above the bottom of II strip.
Similarly, Equation [19.30 (a)] can be written as
3
J
Yw . Sc . Y2 [ 3 · B22 - B32 + 6 · X3, (B2 + B ) + 2 · B B
2 3
24
Yw · X3
----u-[H2+H3][2·B3-3X3]-W2
[B3 - B2 ]
-X3 =O ... [19.30(b)]
3
Total width B 3 required is known from Equation [19.29 (b)] and the increase
required on u/s (X3) is also known from equation [19.30 (b)]. The increase required on
dis can be worked out as equal .to (B 3 - B 2 ~ X3).
AH the remaining strips are designed in this way till the base of the dam is reached .
.Example 19.2. Fig. 19.20 (a)
shows the section of a gravity dam
built of concrete. Examine the
stability of this section at the base.
The earthquake forces may be
taken as equivalent_ to OJ g fQr. __
horizontal forces and 0.05 g for ver-
tical forces. The uplift may be taken
as equal to the hydrostatic pressure
at the ·either ends and is considered
to act over 60% .of the area of the
section.
A tail water depth of 6 m is as-
sumed to be present when the reser-
voir is full and there is-no tail water
when the reservoir is empty.
Also indicate the values of
various_ kinds of str.esses__ that are. . Fig. 19.20 (a)
developed at heel and toe. Assume
the itnit wt. of concrete· as 24 kN/m3 ; and unit wt. of water= JO kN/m3.
Solution. The stability analysis shall be carried out for both the cases, i.e. ( 1)
Reservoir Empty, and (2) Reservoir Full.
Case (I) Reservoir Empty. Consider 1 m length of the dam.
When the reservoir is empty, .the various forces are worked out in Table 19.2 (a)
with reference to Fig. 19.20 (b). Horizontal earthquake forces acting towards upstream
are considered. Stability is examined for two sub-cases, i.e. (a) When vertical earthquake
forces are additive to the weight of the dam ; (b). When vertical earthquake forces are
subtractive to the dam weight.
Earthquake inertia
force
-1;1~ .,. __6_9~6m-- :I .....
Fig. 19.20 (b). Reservoir empty case.

Table 19.2 (a)
.s" ~
~ 2 <:l Moments about the toe
Name of "<:l Magnitude offorce in kN. .... i:: anti-clockwise ( +ve) in
the force
-~~ "'
;:,
kN.m.
"'
i:::i "'
~
-~---
-- Venical Horizontal· --
--- - -- ------ - ---- ---~- ------
Downward W1 (+) ~ x 6 x 60 x 24 = 4,320 65.0 (+) 2,80,400
wt. of dam
W2 (+) 7x90x24=15,110 59.5 (+) 8,99,000
W3 (+) ~ x 56 x 80 x 24= 53700 37.33 (+) 20,00,000
!:Vi= 73,130 !:M1 = (+) 31,79,400

Horizontal P,.;1 0.1 W1=0.lx4320 20.0 (+) 8640
earthquake ~432
forces
Pwi 0.1W2=0.lx1,511 45.0 (+) 68000
= 1511
_Pw3 - . --- --- -- -
(). !__1V3_::_Q.l x 5,_370 --"--- _26.67- c.:cW_-_-_.-1A1.2_QQ_-_-
=5370
!:H=7313 !:M2 = 2,19,840
Vertical !:Vi= 0.05 x !:V1 !:M2 = 0.05 X !:MI
earthquake = 0.05 x 73130 = 3,657 = 0.05 x 31,79,400
forces = 1,58,970
Case.(I). (a) Reservoir empty and vertical earthquake forces are acting downward.
From table 19.2 (a), we have LM =IM1 + LM2 + LM3
= 31,79,400+ 2,19,840+ 1,58,970= 35,58,210kN · m
Also, LV=LV1 +LV2 =73,130+3,657=76,787kN
- =IM= 35,58,210 = 47 3
x LV 76,787 . m
B - 69 B .
e =2-x=2-46.3 = 34.5-46.3 =-11.8 m > 6' i.e. 11.5 m.
Resultant acts near the heel and slight tension will develop at toe.
Pmaxlmin= ~[1 ± ~]
76 87
.. Pmaxlmin = 6~ [ 1± 6 x6~1. 8 ]=1114 [1±1.026]
Pv at heel= 1114 x 2.026 = 2260 kN/m 2; which is~ 3000 (safe)
Pv at toe= 1114 x (- 0.026) = - 29 kN/m 2 ; which is< 420 (safe)
Average vertical stress
LV 76787 . · 2 ·
=s=~= 1114kN/m ; which is< 3000(safe)
P~incipal stress at toe,

cr = Pv sec2 a; (tan a= 0.7)
= - 29 (1 + 0.49) = - 29 x 1.49 = - 43 kN/m2 ; which is< 420 (safe)
Principle stress at heel
' 2th
0"1 = Pv. (heel) sec 't' where tan <j> = 0.1
or sec2 <!> = 1 + tan2 <j> = 1 + 0.01 = 1.01.
2
or cr 1 = 2260 x 1.01=2280 kN/m ; which is< 3000 (safe).
Shear stress at toe
= Pv(toe) tan a
'to(toe)
= - 29 x 0.7 = - 20.3 kN/m 2 ; which is< 420 (safe)
Shear stress at heel
'to(hee[) = Pv. (heel) tan <!>
= 2260 x 0.1=226 kN/m2 ; which is< 3000 (safe).
Case I. (b) Resavoir empty and vertical earthquake forces are acting upward.
Then LV = LV1 - LV3
= 73,130- 3657 = 69473 kN.
IM~-LM
1 +IM;...:.LM"; -- -- - - --
= 31,79,400+ 2,19,840-1,58,970= 32,40,270kN · m.
- = IM= 32,40,270 = ·
x LV 69473 4 6 .7 m.
e= 1-x = 34.5- 46.7 = (-) 12.2 rri < ~

[- ve sign shows that resultant lies near the heel and,
therefore; tension will develop at toe.]

= 1:V = 69,473= 1004 kN/m2
B 69 ·
Pmaxlmin= ~[1 ± ~]
= 696~73 [ 1±6x6~2.2]=1004 [1±1.06]
Pv at heel= 1004 x 2.06 = 2070 kN/m2 < 3000 (safe)
Pv at toe = (-) 1004 x 0.06 = - 60.3 kN/m2 < 420 (safe)
Principal stress at toe
2
= cr = Pv(toe) sec a
= - 60.3 (1 + 0.49) = - 60.3 x 1.49 = 90 kN/m 2
Shear stress at toe
='to= Pv(toe) tan a= - 60.3 x 0.7
= - 42.21 kN/m2 ; which is< 420 (safe)
stresses at heel remain critical in this 1st case. .I
Case II. When the reservoir is full
Horizontal earthquake moving towards the reservoir causing upstream acceleration,
and thus producing horizontal forces towards downstream is considered, as it is the worst
case for this condition. Similarly, a vertical earthquake moving downward and thus,
producing forces upward, i.e. subtractive to the weight of the dam is considered.
The uplift coefficient C is taken as equal to 0.6, as given in the equation, and thus
uplift pressure diagram as shown in Fig. 19.20 (c), is developed.
·-·· --!7m !-- _ _ ::::·.--·- _ _ ..... .
Pe
80rn
p
~W3 =0·1W3
---·+-- _____ _ :_ ______ ---------- - /·4·2m+---
W3
p'
60'/,x860
516 kN/rn.2
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF GRAVITY DAMS 1-015
The various forces acting in this case are :
(i) Hydrostatic pressures P and P'.
(ii) Hydrodynamic pressure Pe. (Pe' is neglected as it is very small and neglection
is on conservative side.)
(iii) Uplift forces U1 and U2
(iv) Weight of the dam, W1, W2 and W 3 •
(v) Horizontal inertial earthquake forces acting towards downstream, equal to 0.1
W1, 0.1 W2 and 0.1 W 3 at c.gs. of these weights W1, W2 and W 3 respectively.
(vi) A vertical force equal to 0.05 W or (0.05 LV1) acting upward.
Calculation of Pe
Pe and the moment due to this hydrodynamic force is calculated, and then all the ..
forces and their moments are tabulated in Table 19.2 (b).
Calculation of Pe from Zanger's formulas
... (19.3)
where Pe= Cm· Kh · Yw · H ... (19.4)
and cm= 0.735 9~0
n
Since the u/s inclined face is extended for more than half the depth,
the overall slope up to the whole height may be taken.
86
.. tan8=6= 14.33
I
8= 81.9° 86m
.. cm= 0.735 x 81.9°

900 =0.668.
Pe= 0.668 x 0.1x10 x 86 = 57.5
P. = 0.726x 57.5x 86= 3580kN.
Me= 0.412 ·Pe· H = 0.412 X 3580 X 86 = 1,26,500 kN.m.
,J
-lsmf-
Fig. 19.20 (d)
Case 2 (a) Reservoir full with all forces including uplift
rM = [31,79,400+ 2,23,380- 8,47,500- l,58,970-10,59,730
- 1,26,500- 2,19,840]
= 34,02,780- 24,12,540= 9,90,240kN/m.
LV = 73130 + 3486 - 19030- 3657 = 53929 kN
- = rM = 9,90,240 = 18 36
x LV 53,929 . m
--- --·-B ________ C"_____ , ____ ---- -- '-----B----~'
e=2.:0..x=34.5-18.36= 16.14>6
The resultant is nearer the toe and tension is developed at the heel.
53
= ~= :~ 9 = 782 kN/m2.
B 1 -+6e]
Pmax/min -_LV[ B
Table 19.2 (b)
Magnitude offorce in kN
<:l
2 t:
~ -~ Moments abouttoe
inkN.
Name of
~
"'
.::;: Vertical forces Horizontal forces E
<:l Anticlockwise ( +ve)
force Downward= +ve Towards Upstream= +ve ..,... and clockwise (- ve)
..,"'
.!:fl Upward=-ve Towards Downstream= -ve :::. inkN.m
.'.:j
c:i"' ... ..
..
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Weight of
Dam
W1 (+) t x 6 x 60 x 1 x 24 = 4320 65.0 (+) 2,80,400
W2 (+) 7x 90x I x24= 15,110 59.5 (+) 8,99,000
W3 (+) ~ x 56 x 80 x 1x24= 53,700 37.33 (+) 20,00.000·
1:V1=(+)73,130 ™1=31,79,400
Weight of - (+) 26x6x I xlO= 1560 66.0 (+) 1,02,800
water
supported on - (+) ix60x6xlxl0=1800 67.0 (+) 1,10,400
u/s slope I .
water on dis - (+) 2x 6 x4.2x 1x10= 126 1.4 (+) 180
slope.
1:Vz = (+) 3486 ™2 = (+) 2,23,380

Uplift forces U1· (-) 69 x 3.6 x 10 = 2,480 34.5 (-) 85,500
U2 (-) ~x 69 x48 x 10= 16,550 46.0 (-) 7,62,000
1:V3 = (-) 19,030 ... LM3= (-) 8,47,500

Upward 1:V4 = (-) 0.05 · 1:V1 =(-)0.05 ·1:M 1
vertical
earthquake = (-) 0.05x73,130 = (-) 0.05 x 31,79,400
forces =(-) 3,657 LM4=(-) 1,58,970
0.05 w
Horizontal
hydrostatic
p
(-)~xlOx86x86xl 28.67 (-) 10,60,090
pressure =(-) 36,980

P' 2.0 (-) 360
(+)~x 10x6x6x I=(+) 180
1:H1 = (-) 36,800 LM5=(-) 10,59,730

Horizontal Pe Calculated separately earlier : ™· = (·) 1,26,500
hydro- = (-) 3,580 (calculated separate!y
dynamic --------- ------- -- .-- ~~------
·-·· Hfr=-(-)·3;sso--- ~-------
. . . ·····earlier···· -----
pressure
Horizontal PW1 (-) 0.1 W1 =(-)432. 20,0 (-) 8,640
inertia
forces due to Pw2 (-) 0.1 Wz = (-) 1,511 45.0 (-) 68,000
earthquake
Pw3 (-) 0.1 W3 = (-) 5,370 26.67 (-) 1,43,200
. ·i
• I
1:H3=(-)7,313 LM7 = (-) 2,19,840
LH=1:H1 +LH2 +LH3 = (-)36,800-3580-7313 = (-) 47,693

= 53:929 [1±6 x6~.32]= 782 [1 ±.1.595) ..·

Pv (at toe)= 782 x 2.595 = 2030.kN/m2 ; which is< 3000 kN/m 2 (:. Safe)
Pv (at heel)= - 782 X 0.405
= - 316. 7 kN/m2 ; which is < 420 kN/m2 ( :. Safe)
Since the tensile stress developed is less than the safe allowable value,. the dam is
safe even when examined with seismic forces, under reservoir full condition.
= <J = Pv · sec2 a-p' tan 2 a i.e. Eq. (19.17)
where tan a= 0. 7, p' = 60 kN/m 2 ; p, "". 2030 kN/m 2
cr = 2030 (1 + tan2 a) - p' tan2 .a
= 2030 (1 + 0.49) - 60 x 0.49 = 2030 x 1.49 -29
= 3025 - 29 =2996 kN/m2 : which is< 3000 (just Safe)
Principal stress at heel is
2
<J 1 = Pv(heel)sec 2 - (p + pe) tan i.e. Eq. (19.19)
where is the angle which the upstream face
makes with the vertical
tan$= 0.1
2
<J1 = - 316.7 [1 + (0.1)21- (860 + 57.5) (0.1)
. /
=- 316.7x1.01-917.5 x 0.01=-319.9-9.2
= - 329.1 kN/m2 ; which is< 420 kN/m 2 (Hence, safe)
-Shear stress at toe
'to(toe) =(pv(toe) --: p') tan a.= (2030- 60) 0. 7
=1970x o.7= 1379 kNim 2
•
Shear Stress at heel

= - [pv(heel) - (p + J? e)] tan' 
. 'to(Mel) .. .
= ,[-329.1-(860+ 57.5)] 0.1 . .
=.,. [-329.1-917.5] 6.1=+1246.6xo.1=124.7k.N/n?
Factor of safety against overturning
...:. IM(+}_ .34,02,780 . · l . h" h. (Hence, Unsafe)
--: kAf (-)- 24,12,540 1. 4 'W IC IS< 1. 5
· . Factor oj-safety against sliding
_µ·l:V
-w
where µ=0.7
l:V=53,929
W=l:H,+W2+W3
=.:_ 36800- 3580-7313 =-47,693 kN
.d. o.7 x 53929 · h. h. · (Hence, Unsafe)

Sl z mg factor= = 0 .79 , w IC IS< 1
47693
Shear friction factor
....=µ·I:V+B·q
SFF m
0.7 x 53929 + 69 x 1400
= 47693
= 2.81 ; which is less than 3 (Hence, slightly unsafe)
Case 2 (b ). Reservoir full, without uplift
Sometimes, values of stresses at toe and heel are worked out when there is no uplift,
as the vertical downward forces. are maximum in this case. For this case, we shall
calculate 2:M and I:V by ignoring' the corresponding values of 2:V3 and 2:M3 caused by
uplift.
2:M = 2:M1 + 2:M2 + 2:M4 + r.Ms + 2:M6 + ™1
= 3,1,79,400+ 2,23,380- 1,58,970- 10,59,730- 1,26,500- 2,19,840
= 34,02,780- 15,65,040= 18,37,740 .
I:V= I:Vi + 2:V2 +2:V4 = 73130+ 3486- 3657 = 72,959 kN
- = 2:M = 18,37,740 .25 19 .
x I:V 72,959 · . . m
e =2B -x=. 34.5-25.9= 9.31 m > 6B 69

i.e. 6= 11.5 m
Resultant is nearer the toe and no tension is developed any where.
Pmax/min = ~ [ 1 ± ~]
= 726:59[1±6x~:31]=1057[1±0.81,] ..
Pv at toe= 1057 x 1.81 = 1913 kN/m2 < 3000 (.';Safe)

2
Pv at heel= 1057 X 0.19 = 201 kN/ni < 3000 (:. Safe)
2 2
Principal stress at toe = cr = Pv · sec ex - p' tan ex ... (19.17)
p' = 60, tan ex= 0.7
cr = 1913 (1+0.49)- 60 x 0.49= 1913 x 1.49- 29 = 2821kN/m2 <3000
(Hence, Unsafe)
Principal stress at heel
2
0'1 =pv(heeosec <P-:-(p+ p~) tan <j> _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ~:Q~j9)
2
~where-ian -~-;-0: r
0'1 = 201(1+0.01) - (860 + 57.5) x 0.01
= 203 - 9 = 194 kN/m2 < 420 (Safe)
Shear stress at toe
'to= <Pv - p') tan ex i.e. Eq. (19.20)
= (1913- 60) 0.7
= 1853 x 0.7 = 1297 kN/m 2 < 1400 (:. safe)
·~ -
I.

Note. Shear friction factor, etc. are not worked out here as they were more critical
in the 1st case, i.e. in 'Reservoir full with uplift' case. '
Conclusion. The dam is unsafe only in sliding and S.F.F., for which shear key etc.
can be provided.
Example 19.3. Examine the stability of the dam section given in the previous
example, if there are no seismic forces acting on the dam. Also state the magnitude of
maximum compressive stress and maximum shear stress that may develop under any
conditions oftoading in the dam and also state whether tension is developed anywhere
or not.
Solution. The figures calculated earlier in Table 19.2 (a) and (b) shall be used here.
Case I. When the reservoir is empty
LV= LV1 from Table 10.2 (a)= 73130
LM= LM1 from Table 19.2 (b) = 3179400
_ LM 3179400
·· x= :EV= 73130 = 43 .4m
, B .
e =1-x= 34.5-43.4=- 8.9 m
-ve sign means that the resultant is towards left side, i.e. nearer to the heel, and since
e < ~, no tension is develoned
Pmaxlmin -
_:_ I:V[
BI -
+ 6e]
B
= 73130 [1 + 6 x 8.9]
69 - 69
= 1060 [1±0.774]
Pv at heel= 1060(1+0.774)::: 1060xJ.174=1880 kN/:Q'l.2
Pv at toe= 1060(1 - 0.774) = 1060 x 0.226 = 239 kN/m2
:::: :EV= 73130= 1060 kNlm2
B 69
2
C5 = Pv(toe) sec a
= 239(1 + 0.49) = 239 x ! ·19 = 357_1cJ'l/n{
Principal stress at heel,
a = Pv(heeO sec2 <!>
where tan<!>= 0.1
= 1880(1+0.01) = 1880x1.01=1896 kN/m2
Shear stress at toe
'to= Pv(toe) tan a
= 239 x 0.7 = 167.3 kN/m 2
1020 IRRIGATION ENGINEJ;IRING AND HYDRA{JLIC STRCTURES

= Pv(!.•. ·~ tan 
'tO(heel)
= 1880x0.1=188 kN/m2•
Case II (a). When the reservoir is full with full uplift
The ".alues of forces, and moments etc. shall be used from th.e already calculated
values in table 19.Z (b). · ·
:LV=:EV1 -t1:.V2 + l:V3
(Seismi~ fo~ces absent mean l:V4 and l:M4 are zero)
=73l30+3486-19039=;76616-19030=575S'6kN
.·.r.Ni:.r.M1
. .
+l:M2+W3+LMs
.
=31,79,400+ 2,23,380- 8,47,500- i0,59,730
:::: 34,02,780- 19;07,230=·14,95,550kN-m.
. "fH = l:H1 = - 36800.kN
- _ IM_ 14,95,550 _
x- .r.v - 57,586 ·..., 26 m
~- :X = 34.5 - 26 = 8.5 m
The resultant is nearer the toe and e is less than ~· and hence, no tension is
developed anywhere ·
PmaX!min =LI[ ± ;J 1
= 57:986 [ 1 ± 6 ~:·5] = ~35[1 ± o.738] .
. Pv at toe= 835(1 + 0.738) ~ 835 x 1.738 = 1451 kN/m2

Pv atheel = 835(1 - 0.738) = 835 x 0.262 = 219 kN/m2
. 2 ·· I 2 .
G =. Pv<toe) sec p tan cx
{l. -. . •.. (19.17)
= 1451(1+0.49)- 60 x0.49=1451x1.49- 29
=2162- 29 = 2133 kN/m2•
-i-----· =-P'-"ri=ncipal
.
str<!_~s_
.
~t heel
-- -----·-.·-2
· · .
· ·· ·-
--.-:------I~-'-'--'- --~--- ..:.--'-.c.::.--'--~- .
. <11 = Pv(heel) sec - p tan 

I · ·· where sec = O.J
I . cr 1 :: 219 x (1+0.01) - (860) x 0.01 =.221.:i- 8.6 = 2i2~6 kN/ni2•.
II · Note. This is the minor principal· stress and major prin~ipal stress. is. equal to
p, i.e. 860 kN/m2 • · · · ·
Shear stress at toe

'to= [Pveioe) - p'] tan ex= (1451- 60) 0.7 = 974 kN/m2:
'to(heel) =- (pv - p) tan qi·
=- (219 - 8-60)0.l ::d 541 x.0.1 = 54.1 kN/m2;
FciCtor of safety against overturning
.:... L\((+.)-' 3402780 _ . . ·.
- IM(-) - 1907230- 1.?S >LS (:. Safe)
Fqcto.r of safety against sliding
·-~-
- r..H -0.7x. ~- .
368QQ-_1.l0>1 ( :. Safe)
Shear friction factor
= µLV+ B · q = 0.7 x 57586+ 69 x 1400
S.FF
.. r..H 36800
=3.72<4to5 {:. Unsafe)
Case II (b). When the reservoir is full without uplift
r..v = :i.v1 +r..v2=73130+ 3486 =76616 i<N
r..M='LM1 +r..M2 +r..M5 = 3179400+223380-1059730
= 3402780 ·- 1059730 = 2343050 kN-m
LH='ill1 =(-)36800kN .
__, r..M 2343050
· x= r..v = 76616 = 30·6 m
e=~- x= 34.5 - 30.6 = 3.9 m
Resultant is nearer the toe and e < ~ ; hence, no tension is developed anywhere
Pmaxlmin = ~[ 1 ± ~]
. =76616[ 1 +6.x3.9]
. 69 - 69 .
= 1110 [1±0.339]
Pv at toe= 1110 X 1.339 = 1490 kN/m2
1
-Pv at heel = 1110 X 0.661=734 kN/m2

= l:V = 76619 = lUO kN/m2
B 69 .
Principal Stress at toe,~- - ------ -~-
2 I 2
cr = Pv(toe) sec a - p tan a
= 1490 (1+0.49) - 60 x 0.49
=2220 - 29 =2191 kN/m2
Principal stress at heel,
<J1 =Pv(heel) sec2 - p tan2 
1022 iRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
= 734 (1+0.01) -- 860 x 0,01

= 742-9 = 733 kN/m2
Shear stress .at toe
tan a
'to = [pv(toe) - p']
= (1490- 60) 0.7 = 1430x Q.7 = 1001 kN/m 2
= - [pv(heel) - P] tan <!>
=- [734- 860] x 0:1-:=12.6 x 0.7= 8S.2kN/m2
Conclusions. We find that the dam is safe throughout except that the S.F.F. is equal
to 3.72, while generally it should be between 4 to 5. The dam thus remains slightly
unsafe in S.F.F. even when the seismic forces are not considered.
The results of stability analysis are given below :
The maximum shear stress developed in dam = 1001 kN/m2• ,
2
Maximum compressive stress developed in da;m= 2191 kN/m
No tension is developed anywhere. Ans.
Factor of safety against sliding = 1.10
S.F.F. . = 3.72
Factor of safety against overturning = 1.78
Example 19.4. Design a concrete gravity dam for the following data :
Maximum allowable compressive stress in concrete= 3000 kN/m2•
Maximum reservoir level = 200.0 m.
R.L of bqf!_om of dam = 100. 0 m
Specific gravity of concrete = 2.4.
Unit wt. of water = 10 kN!m 3•
Solution. The practical profile of dam will have a freeboard of about say 3 to 4%
of dam height. Use 3 m as freeboard . .The freeboard cannot be calculated as the wave
height, etc. are not given.
The R.L. of the top of the dam
= 200.0 + 3.0 = 203.0.m.
The height of the low gravity dam
=H1= f ... (19.26)

'Yw (Sc+ 1)
---- - ---- ------- -
In this question,
·f= 3000 kN/m2 (i.e. 30 kg/cm2)
'Yw= 10kN/m3
Sc=2.4
3000 .
H1 = l0( .4+ l) =88.2m, <He1ghtofdam.
2
Therefore, it is a high gravity dam.
Hence, the dam from RL 200.0 m to RL 200 - 88.2 = 111.8 m shall be designed as
a low gravity dam, and the remaining ·bottom height of the dam from RL 111.8 in to
100.0 m shall be designed on the principles of high gravity dam.
Design of low dam between RL 200.0 m to RL 111.8
A section for this dam can be chosen as per the provisions of Fig. 19 .16.
1
Top width required
.
=a=~=~=..../26.9
3.28. . 3.28
=5.18m
H . . ; .4 88 2
Base w1"dth require
. d =Ts= · = 56 ·8 m.
2
The upstream projection from the vertical face required
a 5.18
=-=-=033m(say)
16 16 .
Total base width (B 1) provided
= 56.8+ 0.33 =57.13 m.
The u/s: batter starts at a depth of
. .
2a {f;
.
= 2 x 5.18 x ..../2.4 = 16.1 m.
from below the M.W.L. and it ends at a depth of
3.1a{f;=3.1x5.18 ..../2.4 = 24.9 m
below the M.W.L. The section of this portion of dam is shown in Fig. 19.21 (a).
5·18
M.W.L. i._
RL=fOQ:,. _--\'!!. .'
. I ~ ,
. . 16·1~:. ~-,
249m +i
8·8m I
-+---'--!:
88·2m
63·3m
I
I
I
I
R.L. 111'8m...,'_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _---a
0·33~....l~·-----~--6~~~mm-------·-----·~:/
Fig. 19.21 (a). Low dam portion from RL 200 to RL Bl.8.
Design of the Dam from RL 111.8 m to RL 100 m
Let us divide this length of 11.8 m into 3 strips. Let the depth of the I strip be 3:8.
m and the depths of II and III strips be 4.0 m each.
Design of the 1st strip
!022 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
= 734 (1+0.01) -- 860 x 0.01

= 742 - 9 = 733 kN/m2
Shear stress at toe
'to = [pv(toe) - p'] tan a
= (1490-60) 0.7=1430xQ.7 = 1001 kN/m 2
= - [pv(heel) - P] tan 
=- [734- 860] x Of= 126 x 0.7= 88.2kN/m 2-
Conclusions. We find that the dam is safe throughout except that the S.F.F. is equal
to 3.72, while generally it should be between 4 to 5. The dam thus remains slightly
unsafe in S.F.F. even when the seismic forces are not considered.
The results of stability analysis are given below :
The maximum shear stress developed in dam = 1001 kN/m2.
Maximum compressive stress developed in da;m= 2191 kN/m2
No tension is developed anywhere. Ans.
Factor of safety against sliding = 1.10
S.F.F. =3.72
Factor of safety against overturning = 1.78
Example 19 .4. Design a concrete gravity dam for the following data :
Maximum allowable compressive stress in concrete= 3000 kN/m2.
Maximum reservoir level = 200.0 m.
RL of !Jq~t~'!l of dam = 100.0 m
Specific gravity of concrete = 2.4.
Unit wt. ofwater =10kN!m3•
Solution. The practical profile of dam will haVe a freeboard of about say 3 to 4%
of dam height. Use 3 m as freeboard .. The freeboard cannot be calculated as the wave
height, etc. are not given ..
The R.L. of the top of the dam
= 200.0+ 3.0= 203.0m.
The height of the low gravity dam
... (19.26)
In this question,
-J= 3000 kN/m2 (i.e. 30 kg/cm2)
Yw= 10kN/m3
Sc= 2.4
3000 .
H1 = 10 (2 .4 + l) = 88.2 m, <Height of dam.
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF ORAVITY DAMS 1023
Therefore, it is a high gravity dam.
Hence, the dam from RL 200.0 m to RL 200 - 88 .2 = 111.8 m shall be designed as
a low gravity dam, and the remaining ·bottom height of the dam from RL 111.8 m to
100.0 m shall be designed on the principles of high gravity dam.
Design of low dam between RL 200.0 m to RL 111.8
A section for this dam can be chosen as per the provisions of Fig. 19 .16.
lop width required= a==~==~=

3.28. . 3.28
.,/26.9 = 5.18 m
Base width required = ~= ~~-·~ = 56.8 m.

The upstream projection from the vertical face required
a 5.18
=16-=- 16= 0 .33m(say)
Total base width (B 1) provided
= 56.8 + 0.33 = 57.13 m.
The u/s. batter starts at a depth of
. .
2a iS; = 2 x 5.18 x .,/2.4 = 16.1 m.
from below the M.W.L. and it ends at a depth of
3.1aiS;=3.1x5.18 .,/2.4 = 24.9 m
below the M.W.L. The section of this portion of dam is shown in Fig. 19.21 (a).
5·18
M.W.L. i_ R L of top=-203·0m
RL=200.~ 3m -------
. - --(;
6
-}:-:->., .c- ~~3_m c- c-c.- .-
24"9m
8·8m
88·2m
63·3m
I
I
I
RL. 111"8m ' "'!---~~~~~~~~~~ ..
0·33;{'""-l·~=-"'.=._;-.:;_-;;;;_-_s_~~~~m-
Fig. 19.21 (a). Low dam portion from RL 200 to RL 11'1.8.
Design of the Dam from RL 111.8 m to RL 100 m
Let us divide this length of 11.8 m into 3 strips. Let the depth of the I strip be 3:8.
m and the depths of II and III strips be4.0 m each.
Design of the 1st strip
1024 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC S>TRCTURES
Weight of dam section up to RL 111.8 m. (i.e. weight of low daR!.)

. = 24 x 1 [ix 8.8 x 033 + 63;3 x 0.33 . . . .
·.·· · · ·- · · +i+56.8x 88.2+3x5.18+~x8.03x5.18]

.. = 24 [1.5+ 20.9 + 2,505 + 15.5 + 20.8]
= 24 (2,563. 7]:: 61,600 kN.
Approximate width ·Of bottom
of 1st strip (say B2') is obtained by .
dra\Ving a h,orizo11tal line at RL 108
m and. by producing the already
provided dis face and ills face ~f
low dam, as stlowri in Fig. 19~21 (b).
. '
i
·.. ·. B/= 57.13 56 · 8 x3.8 ·
2 ' ... 88.;2 .....·
= 57.13+ 2.45 =59.58m
Approximate weight of 1st strip
Fig. 19.21 (b)
= 24x 1 [ 57.13; 59.58]x 3.8
= 24 x 58.35 x 3.8 = 5320 kN

Weight of water resting on the u/s face
= lOx 1 [ 16~1 x0.3~~2.·x~8.8x0,33

I J
=10 x o.33 x 20.5;dt(/t7 ;·~~f(;s'·RN-·:
Total weight of dam and water att~p of Ht strip, i.e. at base of small dam
=W1 =61,600+ 68 = 61,668 kN; Say 61670 kN
Total approximate weight of darri and water ~t base of 1st strip
:: W2 =61,670 + App; weight of 1st strip
= 61,670 + 5320 ='66,990 kN.
The; correct base width B2, which shall keep the maximum compressive stresses
within the allowable limits is given by equation [19.29 (a)], i.e.
Yw · H~ + Tw · Hi
B2= 1
f 4·W~
· -'wnere'H2= 92m
W2 =66,990 kN
f =3000 kN/m2
. 3
Ywr= 10 kN Im.
Substituting, we get
10 x (92)3 102 . (92) 4
B2 = 3000 l + 4 x (66,990) 2
=../2596 (1.4) = ../3,634 =60.4 m
Now let us find out the projection X2 of base B1 on the u/s side. It is given by
equation [19.30 (a)], i~e.
Yw . s~ . YI [ 2 - 2 _- .
3Bi-B2 + 6X2 (B 1 + B2) + 2B 1B2
J
24
_--u
Yw · X2
[H1 + H2H2B2 - 3X2] - W1
[B2 - Bi -X2] = 0.
3
where y1 =3.8 m
B1 =57.13m
Bi~60.4m
Hi= 88.2m
H2=92m
W1 = 61,670 kN
Substituting, we get-
10x24X38 - - - -
- :2 --- . · [3{57.13)2 - (60.4)2 + 6X2 {57 .13+ 60.4) + 2 x 57 .13 x 60.4]
4
· X [88.2+ 92] [2 x 60.4- 3X2] - 61,670[ 0.4~ · -x2]= 0.

10 2 6 57 13
-
12
or 3.8 [9,780- 3,640+ 705X2 + 6,900] - 10X2 [1,815- 45X2] - 61,670 [1.09 - X2 ]
or 4.960+ 268X2 - l,815X2 + 45X~ - 6,720+ 6,167X2 = 0
or 45X~ + 4,620X2 - 1,760= 0
·Solving this equation, we get
X 2 = 0.37 m (say).
Hence, out of 60.4 m base width at base of 1st strip, 0.37 m shall be pI:ovided on
u/s side as shown in Fig. 19.21 (b).-Thiswi-11 ensure that the resultant shall pass through _
the inner third point when th~ reservoir is empty and no tension will develop at toe.
Design of II Strip. It shall be designed on the same- lines on which 1st strip has
been designed.
Corrected weight of 1st strip
= 24 x i[57 13 6
· ; ci.4l
3.8 = 1.2 x 117.53 x 3.8 = 5370 kN.
Weight of water resting on the u/s fa~e of first strip
= 10. [ 88.2 x 0.37 + ~ x 3.8 x 0.37]

= 3'°-7__ [8~:2 + J .9] = 383 kN
-- ---- - ------- --- - -~-"--------~
Total corrected weight at the base of 1st strip

W2 = 6};670+ 5370+ 383
= 67,423 kN. Say 67,420 kN.
Depth of II strip = y2 = 4.0 m.
Approximate base width B3' of the bottom of II strip
56 8
= 60 .4 + 88.2 °·
37
· x 4 .0 + 3.8 x 4 .0
-------- ---- ----
1026 IRRIGATION.ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
=60.4 + 2.58 + 0.39:::: 63.37; say 63.4 m.

Approximate weight of II strip
= 24 x 1 [ 60 ·4 ; 63
.4] x 4 =5940 kN
Approximate weight of water resting on the u/s face of II strip, if the u/s slope given
to 1st strip is extended in the II strip
=[ 92 +2 96 x 0.39]
- -
.10 =370 kN
Hence, the total approximate weight of dam and water at base Of II strip
= W3 = 67,420 +.5940 + 370 =73,730 kN
The corrected base width B3 at bottom of II strip
B3 = /iw .Hj [.1 +iw-m]

_ ..\J-- - ·
. f 4W~ ·
3 2 4
B
3
= 10 x(96) l + 10 (96)
3000 4 x (73,730) 2
= "12,949 (1 + 0.39) = .Y4, 100 = 64.0 m.
Now X3 is obtained from the equation [19.30 (b)], i.e.
Yw · Ss. · Y2 [-
.
2 2
_ 3B2 - B3 + 6X3 (B,2 +)~3) + 2B2B3
J
24
Yw · X3 [H2 + H3] [2B3 -
- ----U- 3X3)- W2
[B3 - B2 ]
- X3 = 0
3
wh~re_y 2 :=_4·9~. · _____________ _
B2=60.4m
B3=64.0m
H2=92m
H3 =96m
W2 = 6,742 tonnes
Yw= 10kNim3
Substituting, we get
10 x 2.4 x 4.0 [ - 2 2 ,1
3 (60.4) - (64.0) + 6 · X3 (60.4 +64.0) + 2 + 60.4 x 64.0J
24
~-~------- - --- ·-- _ 101.2~3[924:_96J[22S{)4.0~-~!3J-=f'1·~~9[64.0~60.4 _x3J=Q

or 0.4 [10,920-4,100+ 747X3 + 7,750]-X3[2010; 47*'3] =6,742 [L20-X3] =0.
or 5,828+299X3 -2,010X3 +47Xj-8,091+6;742X3 =0 - •· -
or 4 7X~ + 5,031X3 - 2,263 = 0
or X~ + 107X3 - 48.2 = 0
Solving this equation, we get, X3 = 0.45 m
I
Hence, out of 64.2 m of base width the the base of II strip, 0.45 m shall be provided
I
on uls side as shown in Fig. 19.21 (c).
I
I
Design of last, i.e. third strip
Corrected weight of II strip
6 64 0
= 24 x 1 [ 0.4; · ] x 4.0 = 5980 kN
.. Weight of water resting on the u/s face of II strip
= 10[92 x 0.45+ t x 4 x 0.45] = 500 kN.
Total corrected v.:~ight at tI:!e base of II S!r!p

W 3 = 67 ,420 + 5980 + 500 = 73,900 kN
Depth of III strip = 4.0 m.
Approximate base width B4' at the bottom of III strip
= 64.0+ ~~:~ - 4,0 j- 0.45

·= 64.0+ 2.58+ 0.45 = 67.03 m.
Approximate weight of III strip
64 0 67 03
= 24 x l [ · ~
· ] x 4.0 = 6280 kN
Approximate weight of water resting on the u/s face of III strip if the u/s slope given
to II strip is extended in Iil strip
96
= 10 [ +2 lOO x 0.45] = 442 kN
Hence; the total approximate weight of dam and water at base of III strip,
= W4 = 73,980 + 6280 + 442 = 80,620 kN
The corrected base width B4 at the bottom of Ill stilp is ·given by ·
B2= ,Yrw·H~[1+
f
fw·~i··
4W:i .
where/= 3000kN/m2
H4= lOOm
W4 ='80,620kN.
3 2 4
B
4
= 10x(100) l+ 10 x(100)
3000 4 x (80620) 2
= "13,333 [1+0.385] = °'13,333 (1.385) = "14,620 = 68.0 m.
~ -Now x4 is obtai;;I·£~~~-ih~ equatio~---_._..,,____c..:..c. · · ···-
Yw · Ss · Y3 [ 3B23 - B24 + 6X4 (B3 + B4) - 2 B3B4 J

24
~·~ +H
--u[H 3 4] ]-W [~-~
[2B 4 -3X4 3
3
]
-X4 =0,
where y3 = 4.0 m
B3=64.0m
1028 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND _HYDRAULIC STRCTURES
114 =68.0m
H3 =96m
H 4 = lOOm
W3 = 7,390 tonnes.
Substituting, we get -
1Qx2.4x4.0[
_ .
2· 2
3 (64.0) - (68.0) + 6 · X4 (64.0 + 68.0) + 2. x 64.0 x 68.0
J
24
10 · X4 [ 96+100][2x68.0-3X J-73,900
-12 - [68.0- 64.0----X ] =0
- -- ---
4 3 4
or 4 [12,288- 4,624+ 792X4 + 8.704]- 10X4[2,220-49X4] - 73,900 [1.33-X4] = 0

-t
or 65,470+ 3170X4 - 22,200X4 490X~ - 98,530+ 73,900X4 = 0
or 6,547 + 317x4 - 2,220X4 + 49X~ - 9,853 + 7,390X4 = 0
or 49X~ + 5,487X4 - 3,406 =0
or X~ + 112x4 ,... 69.5 = O
Solving, we get X4 = 0.62 m.
Hence, out of base width of 68.0 m, at the base of III strip, 0.62 m shall be provided
on the u/s side, and the remaining shall be provided on dis side as shown in Fig; 19.21
(c).
The design of all the bottom strips is shown in Fig. 19.21 (c).
Portion of dam
shown in fig.19·21(a)
fr-',._,..--57-13m---+--
l st strip
____,__ _ 60·4 m - - + - - - - - '
Ilnd strip
---~64·Qm --1-----~
4·0m
!II rd Strip
Fig. 19.21 (c)
CONSTRUeTl6N-OF-6-R*VITYBAMS--
19.11. Diversion Problem in Dams Construction
Before the actual construction of a dam can start in a river channel, the water of the
river channel must be temporarily diverted. It is advantageous to schedule the construc-
tion orthe lower portion of the dam during normal periods of low flow so as to minimise
the diversion problem. The diversion of river water can be accomplished in either of the
following two ways :
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF ORAVITY DAMS 1029
(i) Provision of a Diversion Diversion tunnel or
Tunnel •. If geological and. div.izrsfon chann·11:1
topographical conditions are
favourable, a diversion tunnel or.
a diversion open channel may be
constructed to carry the· entire
flow around the dam site as Construction zone
-shown in Fig. 19 .22. The area in for Dam
which construction work has to _ . ~~+--->,"""-.;:.;_-'-'-~--'-,--~~~.J...:.L->,.,~~~~
take place, is closed by coffer- U/S Coffer-dam

dams. The diversion tunnel or PLAN
channel will start from upstream Fig. i9.22
of the upstream cof.fer-dam and
will join the river again on the downstream of the downstream coffer-dam, as shown in
Fig. 19.22.
(ii) By constructing the dam in two stages. The dam is sometimes constructed in
two stages. In such a case, the flow is, first of all, diverted and confined to one srde of
the channel by constructing a selTli-
circular type of a coffer-dam as
shown in Fig. 19.23. The construction
work can be taken up in the water-
Cofkr dam free zone. When the work on the
lower portion of the dam on half of its
length in one side of the channel gets
Fig. 19.23
completed, the remaining half width
of the channel is closed by a coffer-dam, as shown in Fig. 19.24. The flow is diverted
\
River Cottizr dam
Ut5 D/s
Completed portion
Flow through ·of the dam
sluice way or
over the d<lm
Fig. 19.24 ·
through the dam outlets or sometimes it may even be allowed to overtop the already
constructed portion of the dam. The work will continue in the water-free zone.
19.12. Construction ofGalleries-in~Gravity'-Dams ~'- "--- - -- -- - - ·
Galleries are the horizontal or sloping openings or passages left in the body of the
dam. They may run longitudinally (i.e. parallel to dam ax.is) or transversely (i.e. normal
to dam axis) and are provided at various elevations. All the galleries are interconnected
by steeply sloping passages or by vertical shafts fitted with stairs or mechanical lifts.
The size of a gallery will depend upon the size of the dam and the function of the gallery.
Functions and Types of Galleries in Dams '
(1) Foundation Gallery. A gallery provided in a dam may serve one particular
purpose or more than one purpose. For example, a gallery provided near the rock
-I
foundations, serves to drain off the water which percolates through the foundations. This
gallery is called a foundation gallery or a drainage gallery. It runs longitudinally and
is quite near to the upstream face of the dam. Its size usually varies from I .5 m x 2.2 m
to 1.8 m x 2.4 m. Drain holes are drilled from the floor of this gallery after the foundation
grouting has been completed. Seep<ige is collected through these drain holes. The size
of the gallery should be sufficient to accommodate atleast a drilling machine. Besides
draining off seepage water, it m·ay be helpful for drilling and grouting of the foundations,
when this can not be done from the surface of the dam.
(2) Inspection Galleries. The water which seeps through the body of the dam.is·
collected by means of a system of galleries provided at various elevations' (say at heights
of 15 m or so) and interconnected by vertical shafts, etc. All these galleries, besides
draining off seepage water, serve inspection purposes. They provide access to the
interior of the dam and are, therefore, called Inspection galleries. However, galleries in
dams are seldom provided for purely inspection purposes. They generally serve other
purposes along with this purpose. Their main functions are summarised below :
(i) They intercept and drain off the water seeping through the dain oody.
(ii) They provide access to dam interior for observing and controlling the behaviour
of the dam.
(iii) They provide enough space for carrying pipes, etc. during artificial cooling of
concrete, (see next article).
(iv) They provide access for grouting the contraction joints when this cannot be
done from the face of the dam.
(v) They provide access to all the outlets and spillway gates, valves, etc. by housing
their electrical and mechanical controls. All these gates, valves, etc. can hence, be easily
controlled by men, from inside the dam itself.
0
(vi) They provide space for drilling and grouting of the foundations,--then it cannot be
done fromthe surface-of-the.dam. Generally, thefoundation gallery is used for this purpose.
Foundation gallery is generally differently named from inspection galleries, al-
though strictly speaking, it can also be used for inspection purposes and may be called
as inspection gallery.
19.12.1. Cross-sections of Dam Galleries. Dam galleries are formed as the con-
crete is placed and its size depends upon the function of the gallery and also upon the
size of the dam. Certain important shapes of the commonly used galleries are shown
below in Fig. 19.25.
The provision of a gallery in a dam body·, changes the normal pattern of stresses in
the body of the dam. Stress concentration may, therefore, occur at corners, and hence,
in order to minimise
this stress c6ncentra-
--tions, the·cori:J.ersmast-- --------- - -----
be rounded smoothly. Drainage
Tension and compres- troug.h
sion zones may be (
worked out and proper Concrete laid
Rectangular afterwards
reinforcements, etc. are gallery
provided to. counteract Circular gallery
Paint
them. Oval-shaped
gallery
Fig. 19.25. Various Types of Dam Galleries.
.-.-
19.13. Cracking of Concrete in Concrete Gravity Dams

When concrete sets, a tremendous amount of heat is liberated (due to heat of
hydration of cement), which will raise the temperature inside the body of the dam. But
the temperature outside the dam remains equal to the atmospheric temperature. Due to
these temperature differences; temperature stresses get developed in the dam body.
Besides, due to shrinkage of concrete as it cools, shrinkage stresses get developed.
These temperature stresses and shrinkage stresses will cause the concrete to crack unless
remedial measures are undertaken. Various measures, generally adopted in concrete
gravity dams, to _axo_id_this crack,ing are :
(i) Using minimum amount of cement in a given mix of specified strength. The
quantity of cement can be decreased by better grading the aggregates. -
(ii) 'Low lifts' should be used for concrete. When concrete is poured, it is poured
up to a certain height in the first attempt. This height is called 'lift'. Generally, 1.5 m
lift is used in modern dams. If this -lift is reduced, more horizontal joints will get
developed and also sufficient cooling time between two successive pours shall be
obtained, thus reducing cracking.
(iii) By providing suitably spaced contraction joints, in addition to the normal
construction joints.
((v) Special low heat cements may be used.
(v) The materials which go into the concrete, may be cooled before mixing.
(vi) Further cooling is accomplished by circulating cold water through pipes em-
bedded in concrete. This is quite an expens~ve measure and is adopted only for large
gravity dams.
19.14. Joints in a Gravity Dam
The_ concreting of the dam is usually placed in_ blQcks. _The size_ oLblocks will-
depend upon the size of dam and necessity of contra,ction joints required from the
considerations of cracking of concrete. Their width is usliall_y not more than 15 m or so,
in large dams. Maximum height of a single pour of concrete {called 'lift')- is usually
about 1.5 m or so. The alternate blocks of the very first layer which is laid immediately
over the rock foundation is taken as 0.75 m deep, as shown in Fig. 19.26. Dam sections
. are poured alternately so that each block is perni.itted to stand serveral days before
another layer is poured on top of the first. Care must be taken to protect the individual
dam se.ctions from the drying action of air by ensuring full-fledged curing. After the
shutterings are removed, the lateral surfaces of each section are painted with an asphaltic
emulsion paint so as to prevent its adherence to the adjoining sections and thus to serve
as construction joints to reduce cracking in concrete. The Vertical joints so developed
____ are called tbetrn11s'\'er_se joints and they_1JmJhr_o_ugh_the__entire_beighLand_extend_
through the full width of the dam section. Transverse joints will thus divide the dam
length into a number of vertical cantilevers each of which is independent of the other ;
justifying the two dimensional analysis of gravity dams.
The horizantal joints called longitudinal joints are developed at each lift height
and will extend through the entire width of the dam section. They shall run through the
entire length of the dam but shall be staggered between transverse joints, as shown in
Fig. 19.26.
Ho~1zontal longit~dinal joints
staggered between two Vertical o• transverse joints'
15 -30m apart ·
transverse jointf
/ ~' .---TOP OF OAM
r
/ /
I---
J,
,____
,/
/ u
·' /
" ...__
...__
I
0·75m '
.___
l1·50m
Height 075m- '---
..___
of dam
>------:;:,..
..___
-
!t·Sm
"
--
. ...__
.1.0·7Sm
--
-
f'---
-,- .r/",.:::Y
'T' ~' "/ ~~
' // // " . //
"''
-.t5-30m~ ROCK FOUNDATION,
I:
. . , _ - - - - - - - - - - - - - L E l ) l G T H OF DAM ------~---------i
Fig. 19.26. U/S face of rlam in elevation showing dam joints.

Construction joints and Contraction joints. Truly speaking, every joint which-
soever is left in the dam, shall be a construc-
tion joint and every construction joint will Transverse jo'intin plan
(horizontal joint in section)
oppose contraction stresses, and hence will
be a contraction joint. Therefore, there U/S
should be no difference between the two. But face ., . , .-- • : . .. . ·: D/S face
whether the joint left was needed from the con- :· :. ~:<_:: ~ -.· ~ '. ·":"~;:~ (triangular key}
.. - ..
siderations of practical difficulties in laying the
concrete in a single stretch or it was left inten-
~~~a!~m!~~a:~~i~~e~:~~,is!~:e~%e:~:~:!: U/S. >~:~-~-!~-\-)':. :~~:~/.

-·-o/S fqce" -
the limits of these two terms. In other words, face ;-_;, -, - ::. :.··.:.-.•:(Rectangular
horizontal joints which were a must from con- ·· :_ :,,.: .~ .' :·;. ·, :_-.-;..:-.· -~:; key) ·
siderations of lift, are sometimes called thC? .
construction joints ; while the joints which are
mainly left for shrinkage of concrete are called (Triangular
the contraction joints. Although most of the key)
times, these two terms are used to· mean one
and the same thing.
19.14.1. Shear Keys or Key ways.
Where foundation conditions are such that·
undesirable differential settlements or dis-
---. ·-pfa-cemen+s-"between-ad~acenLco.n.cu_te~_
blocks may occur, shear keys are formed in
transverse vertical joints between sections to
carry the shear from one section to the ad- .
jacent one and make the dam act as a
monolithic structure. These shear. keys be-
tween the transverse joints are seldom
provided on good foundations and in U-
shaped valleys, as they will unjustify the two·
Fig. 19.27. Various types of key-ways.
dimensional design of the dam.
Shear keys are however, always provided between the horizontal- longitudinal joints in
order to transmit vertical shearing stresses across the section. After the concrete has under-
gone its shrinkage, these longitudinal horizontal joints are grouted through pipes embedded
in the blocks before hand. The transverse vertical joints may also be keyed and grouted if
the monolithic behaviour is desired as is generally done on poor foundations and in narrow
V-shaped gorges. Various types of key ways used these days are shown in Fig. 19.27.
19.14.2. Wat.er Stops. Water stops or water bars, as used in R.C.C. aqueducts
(discussed in article 14.6), are also required to be provided in the transverse as well as
horizontal joints in concrete adjacent to the upstream face of dam. The openings of the
vertical transverse joints as well as of the longitudinal horizontal joints in a dam body
(Fig. 19 .26), if not sealed properly with water stops, will provide passage for seepage
of water through the dam body. To stop this leakage, water stops consisting of metal
strips, rubber or PVC are installed across the joints adjacent to the upstream face.
Asphalt water stops are used as secondary water stops to the metal and rubber/PVC
water stops.
In metal water stops, copper or stainless steel strips' of not less than 1.5 mm
thickness and 300 mm width are used. Z-shape and M-shape metal stops, as shown in
Fig. 19.28 (a) and (b), are generally used.
Rubber water stops are made from natural rubber confirming to the requirements
given in table 19.3. The shape of such water stops may vary, depending upon the water
head, etc. The usual minimum width of rubber water stops for dams is 300 mm.
.~===250~~~
..
11 J
,,,J ~1
i. 250~ k-,,~
===1-===:JJ; ,
(a) Details of z-shaped metal water stop (b) Details of M-shaped metal water stop
Fig. 19.28. Various types of metal waterstops.
PVC waters.tops should be fabriCated from plastic compounds, the basin resin of
which shall be polyvinyl chloride. The compound shall .contain any additional resins,
plasticizers, infiibitors or other material such that when the material is compounded, it
shall meet the requirements given in table 19.3.
Table 19.3. Performance Requirements of Rubber or PVC Water Stops
S.No. Characteristics Unit Values
(i) Tensile strength N/mm2 11.5, min
(ii) Ultimate strength % 80,min
(iii) Tear resistance N/mm 2 4.9,min
(iv) Stiffness in flexure - --·_,,,NJ mm~ 2.46, min
(v) Accelerated extraction
(a) Tensile strength N/mm2 10.5, min
(b) Ultimate alongation % 250, min
(vi) Effect of alkali : _7 days
(a) Weight increase % 0.10,max
(b) Weight decrease % 0.10, max.
( c) Hardness change, Point ±5
(vii) Effect of alkali : 28 days
(a) Weight increase % 0.40, max
(b) Weight decrease % 0.90, max
(c) Dimension chan11:e % +!
'11 11
Certain typical shapes in which rubber/PVC water stops, suitable for concrete gravity
dams, may be ma,de are shown in Fig. 19.29. The shape recomn:ended by IS :J2200-1987
for dams is shown in Fig. 19.30.
~
~
"'
·/ ., c
0 ~
"'"'., ~
~
Shape of PVC or R~ubblr
~ ~ ""
~ ...:: .~
Safe Stability
<> ~
Watersto[Y E;. "" ~
8 ~ ~
E:
-~
(i) 230XA Dumb Bell 230 10 50 Used where large movement
with Central due to expansion/contraction
• 0 • Bulb is expected. Also for

settlement joints and
.
crumple sections
(ii) 230G Serrated with 230 4-5 25 For thicker concrete walls
Cintra! bulb and with lower.hydrostatic·
•• I • 0 I I
•f f
• --- - -----
pressures for expansi.on
joints.
(iii) 240H Serrated with 240 8-10 50 For thicker concrete wan ·and
Central bulb for higher hydrostatic
t I II II c I .• I I I t pressure for expansion and
construction joints.
(iv) 240RS Ribbed and 240 5 25 For construction joints
~I 11 1111 11 Ill~ !I II ii 14 serrated
(v) 305F Serrated with 305 8-12 60 For very high hydrostatic
Central bulb pressure and where higher
grading of concrete
I
-----··:-
I
-~ • • I aggregates used for
expansion joints in Dams
etc.
(vi) 300N Ribbed with 300 10-.12 60 Same as 305F but slightly
I
(vii)
I
• e I I I ---- -Central bulb- -----
230KD Kicker 230

-· -
25
_ thicker,.. specially __designed
for Narmada Project.
Externally placed where
• • • •
(viii) 230KE Kicker with 230 5 25
re-inforcement in R.C.C .
elements congested. Used
for construction joints.
Externally placed in R.C.C.
I a
(ix)
I
• I
I IE -
I I
320KZ
Central bulb
Kicker 320 5 25
elements c;ongested. Used
for movement joints.
Surface waterstops. ·used for
construction joints of long
lengths.·
Fig. 19.29. Certiiin typical shapes in which rubber/PVC waterstops
may be made to suit individual dam project.
~--1oi--~-45~~~,__~-
' fB-+--j---i+ 0,:.,-t---$--

All Dimensions in mm
Fig. 19.30. Detailed dimensions ofa rubber/PVC waterstop recommended by IS: 12200-1987.
. . .
Metal and rubber/PVC water stops are often used together to reduce leakage through
the joints in a da,m as shown .in Fi~. 19.31 to 19.34. ·
An Asphalt water stop is CGnstructed by forming a well of square opening across the
contraction joints and filling the opening with asphaltic compound. The well may be
fitt~d in advance with a steam pipe or an electrical heat conductor for reliquefying the
asphalt. The asphalt to be used should confirm to the specifications shown in table 19.4
bclow. :
Table 19.4. Recommended Specifications of Asphalt
as per IS : 12200-1987 for Asphalt Joints
S.No. Prooertv Recommended Value
1. Density 1015-1065 kg/m,
2. Penetration at 2S°C 200-300mm
3. Softening point (Ring and ball test) s0-90°C
4. Brittleness test on 22 mm2 specimen at 5°C, (energy absorbed) 0;97kgm
The location, shape and dimensions of an asphalt water stop (square hole filled with
asphalic compound) are shown within a typical sectional plan of a contraction joint in
Fig. 19.31. .
I
~ ~ ~*Alldimensionsinmm
- -- -- - - -- - - - - - -- 1·*14.For masonry dams only
4>20 MS/cp16 Torsteel 1
no blockout is roquired
¢10 MS or 8¢ Tor I f~r concrete dams
St eel, 500 Lon.ii hooked a1 one end
(Concrete & bra zed 1o sealing strip @ 1 m c/c
Fae~ blockout ""
of dam (1850x800)
\... . . .
600 100 ¢ 209 Formed frap ·
dram I
Z/M Type coppczr or 50
-
F low
stainless stizel seiii'1ng
strip 1·Smm·thick
.' / 1 ·.I Rubper/PVC Watczr stop
I
'.f. ~
11A~~~lt
Contraction 250 {>$' : I 300
l_ __ J·~~~+- _L __ ---- --
Jo.inf
l i
f.
-r ---------
SOOhczating piP,\ : To galle.r.y floor
\_Concrete*)
blockout
. '<- 1 drain
~-·-(1-8-SO_x_B_OO_) __ '""'(Md 1
-----~ --
- -~--= --- ------:- - -:-- -~---J_
All dimension·s in f!lm
Fig. 19.31. Sectional plan at a contractionjm*(square ho!~ shows Iocationof asphjlt water stop)
Note : Dowel bars between concrete/masonry face of the.blockout not-shown. . ,
19.14.2.1. Installation of water stops

( 1) The metal waters tops shall be erected with the help of anchor rods.
(2) In the case of masonry dams, the surface adjacent to tbe blockouts (shown by
dotted lines in Fig. 19.30) shall be irregular and the joints in the masonry shall
be raked out when mortar is green, with some stone protruding beyond dotted
lines regularly in both directions. No such blockouts shall be provided in
concrete dams where concreting oh either side of the water seals is done along
with the concreting oftheresLof thj concreting bloc}(.
(3) 25 mm dia dowel bars, 1500 mm hmg (500 mm in concrete and 1000 mm in
masonry) 500 mm c/c in both directions shall be provided at the con-
. crete/masonry interface of the blockout in case of a masonry dam to prevent
shrinkage crack at the interface.
(4) The blockout may be concreted in lifts not more than 1.5 m. Minimum grade
of concrete to be used in the blockout shall be M20.
(5) The blockout of one block may be concreted first and the joint face given a
coat of coaltar black paint conforming to IS : 290-1961 and then only the
blockout of the second blo~k sho.uld be concreted, so as to have a clear
contraction joint.
(6) Typical details of waterstop arrangement ,(at contraction joints between two
rnonol'.ths of a dam) near the top of a non-overflow section are shown in Fig.
19.32 ; near the crest of an overflow section in Fig. 19.33 and near the bottom
of the dam in Fig. 19.34.
Counter
sunLplug
Top of dam
U/S Face 300 4>200 Steel pipe
of dam .._..'"rl"H'..,..
125x125 Formed
ho!iz fillizd with
asphalt _ _..,,
600
.------t-- PVC I Rubber
Z-type Water stop
Copper/
Mone I stnp..+-:----i"i-",l
· t12 Asphalt ~
heating pipes
All Dimensions in mm
Fig. 19.32. Typical waterstop details near the top of
non-overflow section of a dam.
*IS code on "Methods of Testing Plastics".

-
.-.
1037
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF ORAVITY DAMS
'· Metal sealing strip
See Detail 'A
Rubber/PVC
Water st?P
(a) (b) Details at 'K
Crest profile
Axis of Dam
~----+--~...,----!- 250 "250 Steel plate

U/S Face wizlded to q, 200
of dam Steel pipe
i-------4-- PVC/Rubber
water stop
90
-
¢12 Asphalt
600 Steam heating pipes
connected .to
:: -=-- = --=--===- gallery
- -::..- -=-
125x125 Formed
hole filled with
Asphalt -~-~--~--11-74-____..,..i 11
cp 12
Asphalt
heating pipes
(c) Details at 'B'

All dimensions .in mm
Fig. 19.33. Typical waterstop details near the
crest of o~erflow section (spillway). ·
1038 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND HYDRA1JLIC STRCTURES
125 x 125 Formizd holiz

fill<Zd with asphalt
u/s Face of dam <;b200 Steel pipe

connected to
foundation gallery
drain
Z, Typ<Z-
Copp<Zr/Monizl
strip
600 150
---+-----;--<#> 200 Trap dra·in
t+------+--PVC/ Rubber'
Water stop
r
Accepta_ble--dcim
undat1on
vat ion
r7r.""'<"<rl
cp 12
Asphalt
h<Zating pip<Zs
j___ ...il
1 2 0 0 - - - -.. '
All dimensions in mm
Fig. 19.34. Typical waterstop details near the bottom of the dam.
Rubber/PVC waterstops shall be provided around galleries/adits at the contraction
joints between two monoliths of a dam, as shown in Fig. 19.35.
19.15. Foundation Treatment for Gravity Dams
,1 The material underl)'.ing the base of a dam, i.e. the foundatio.n.s of the dam, must be
1
strong enough and capable to withstand the foundation pressure exerted on it under
1
·,1- - - -vru.--i0us-conclit-i0ns 0H0aclingand in-dry-as-weH-as-wet-'-e0nditi0n. Most of t-he -failures
of the dams have occurred because of the failure of their underlying strata. A concrete
gravity dam.of California called St. Francis-dam was 'about 62 m high and about_ 210 m
: long and failed 'soon after its completion. The cause of failure was found to. be the
-----·--
Rubb er /PVC Wat er stop

[
I
..
Jsoo
. - - .
500 500
Gallery /Adit
-
500
Fig. 19.35. Rubber/PVC waterstop around

Dam Gallery/Adit at con~_actionjoints.
pr;~encec-<Jtcpr:glom_gJlJLii:t __ q!}~_abl!!IIlel!~· which was weakened after exposure to

moisture from the reservoir. -Sfoiifarly, the ffillure'ofa 60 m' high-arc1iaarieiY1 Fra:nce·-
(called Malpasset dam) was attributed to the presence of a clay seam in the rock at one
of the abutments. Austin Dam on the Colorado river in Texas failed in the year 1900,
because large cavities had been dissolved in its limestone foundation. _
All these examples have been quoted just to stress upon the readers and the desig-
ners, the importance of foundations and the need for their thorough· investigation and
remedial treatrnent, _if any thing special is found adverse. Besides the special remedial
measures in particular cases, the foundation treatment commonly adopted for all foun-
dations can be divi~ed into two steps :
(1) Prepari'(lg the suiface ; and
_________ __J2) Grouting _the foundatiOns.
The~~ t~~;t~;nt~-;;:~~-briefly-discussed below_:_
1
(1) Preparing the Surface. The surface preparation con.sis ts in removing the entire
loose soil till a sound bed rock Is exposed. The excavation should be carried out in such
a way that the underlying rock is not ,~amaged. The final surface obtained above- is
stepped, so as to increase the frictiohal resistance of· the dam against sliding. The.
stepping of the foundation and provision of a shear key is shown in Fig. 19.36. The
shear key may sometimes be provided in the centre but is generally provided at the heel.
........
U/5 face
of dam
... " - D/S face
of dam
Fig. 19.36. Stepping of dam foundation and provision of shear key.

. '
If faults, seams, or shattered rock zones are detected in the exploratory geological
investigations, special steps and remedies must be taken to ensure their removal. They
may have to be entirely excavated and back-filled with coqcrete grouting. The treatment .
will depend upon the specific needs.
The top foundation surface is thoroughly cleaned with wet sand blasting and wash-
ing before the concreting for dam section is started to be laid.
(2) Grouting the Foundation. The foundation grouting can be divided into :
(a) Consolidation grouting ; and
(b) Curtain grouting.
(a) Consolidation grouting. The entire foundation of the dam is consolidated by
. grouting~ For this purpose, shallow holes (called B holes) are drilled through the.foun-
dation tock. The depths of these holes generally vary between 10 to 15 m. They are
situated at abou!. 5 to 20 m apart, in the general area of .the heel of the dam. After the .
h1 1
h~l_es~ ~v e-c-~~e11__ ~~il2:~~f~~t~r~- .of .::~; nt~~ n~- ~~tTlier_~c-~lle~ ~~~ut~ _i~-~ao~c=-~~i~~-~-~~~--
o es at ow pressure o auout 30 ·to "t i'I ·cm . 0 1 1
IS IS accomp Ishe , ue1ore any·
concreting for the dam section is laid. This low pressure grouting will result in a general
consolidation of the foundations. These low pressure grout holes will later serve the
purpose .of a cut-off against leakage of high pressure gr9ut! whic_h is to_ b~ _used afte!_
some concreting of the dam has taken· taken place.
(b) Curtain Grouting. It helps in forming the principal barrier or a curtain against
the seepage through the foundations, and thus reduce the uplift pressures. To accomplish
this high pressure grouting, relatively deeper holes (called A holes) are drilled near the
heel of the dam. The spacing of the holes may vary from 1.2 to 1.5 m. Holes are first
of all, drilled and grouted at about 10 to 12 m apart, and then the intermediate holes are
drilled and grouted. The depths of the holes vary from 30 to 40% of the total upstream
water head for stro]!g_roc]c_ fQl!ndations, ,and may be as. Il!l!~ll. a.s_JO%_.,_(lf t~.e-wll.te~~~ag
for poor rocks. After the holes have been drilled, a mixture of cement and water (i.e.
grout) is forced into the holes under high pressure. The grouting pressure may be kept
as
ashigh- possible without lifting the foundation strata. Usually, the foundatiocn pressure
used in this high pressure grouting is equal 'to 2.5 D N/cm2, where D is the depth of
grouting in metres below the surface·. This grouting is generally done in stages of depth
: equal to 15 m or so, and carried out only after some portion of the dam section has been
laid. .
This grouting may have to be accomplished from the foundation gallery or from
other galleries within the dam. It may also be done from the upstream face of the dam,
if possible. In certain special cases, this grouting may have to be accomplished from
tunnels driven into the foundation rock below the dam.
PROBLEMS
1. (a) What is meant by gravity dams ? -·------ -- - -·--
(b) What are the main points to be considered while selecting a site for a gravity dam construction?
(Madras University. 1975)
· (c) Explain briefly with neat sketches the differ~nt forces that may act on a gravity dam. Indicate
their magnitudes, directions and locations. (Madras University. 1974)
2. (a) Explain in details the various forces causing instability in a gravity dam.
(Madras University, 1974)
(b) What is meant by the elementary profile of a gravity dam; and how is it deduced? What should
be the maximum depth of elementary profile of a dam if the safe limit of stress on the masonry should
2
not exceed 1500 kN perm ? (Madras University, 1975)
[Ans. 44 m, assuming unit weight of masonry = 24 kN/m 3]
3. Explain briefly how grout curtain and drainage affect uplift pressures in gravity dams.
Fig. 19.37 shows the section of a gravity dam (non-overflow portion) built of concrete. Calculate
(neglecting earthquake effects):
MwLl 5m t:"__ !H-~=_5_82·00

R.L.=580·00 R.L.: 575·00
Tail water
R.L. 506·00
____.it_--·
R.L.=500·00
--- ---- --~ ..sm ~ 56~
Fig. 19.37
(i) The maximum vertical stresses at the heel and toe of the dam.
(ii) The major principal stress at the toe of the dam.
(iii) The intensity of shear stress on a horizontal plane near the toe.
3
-··Assume
I .
weight of concrete = .24 kN/m . - - - ---- ---· - - - - -
[Hint: Follow example 19.1]

4. (a) What do you mean by the elementary profile of a gravity dam ? (Madras University, 1976)
(b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of a gravity dam over the other types ?
(Madras University, 1976)
(c) What are the methods adopted to reduce uplift in masonry dams ? (Madras University, 1976)
5. (a) What is _meant by the term 'low dam' ? Determine the dimensions of the elementary profile
of a low gravity dam. (Madras University, 1973)
(b) Explain the criteria that ·govern the design of a high gravity dam in different zones of its
cross-section. · (Madras University, 1976)
6. (a) What is meant'by1<'coilcrete gravity dams" ? Draw a neat typical cross-section of such a dam.
Name the highest dam of the>~orld as well as that of India. .
{b) What are the differe~tways by which a concrete gravity dam may fail, and how will you ensure
it-s safety against each type of failure ?
7. (a) Differentiate between a 'low gravity dam' and.a 'high gravity dam'. '
- (b) How does the practical profile of a low gravity dam differs from that of the theoretical one, and
why? ,,.-.
(c) Discuss step by step the analytical procedure that.you will adopt for analysing the stability (two
dimensional analysis) of gravity dams. · - - · ·· · ·
8. Write detailed notes on any two of the following :
(i) Forces acting on gravity darns •.
(ii) Stability analysis of gravity darns.
(iii) Elementary profile of a gravity darn.
(iv) Design considerations and fixing the section of a gravity dam.
(v) Design criteria for .the design of high gravity darns: . ·
9. Write short notes on :
(i) Uplift force.
(ii) Drainage gallery.
(iii) Grout curtain.
(iv) Construction joint.
(v) Earthquake forces on dams. (Madras University, 1973)
10. (a) Derive an expression for the limiting height of a low darn. (Madra~ University, 1974)
(b) Briefly explain the functions of the following :
(i) Drainage gallery.
(ii) Construction jciintS in a darn.
(iii) Ogee spillway.. (Madrc;s .University, 1974)
[Hint: For (iii) Please refer chapter 21]
11. A concrete dam can ·be assumed to be trapezoidal in section having a top width of 2 m and
bottom width of 10 m. Its height is .12 m and the upstream face has a batter of 1 : 10. Give an analysis
of the stability of the dam for the base section for overturning and sliding in the full reservoir condition
assuming no free-board allowance but allowing for uplift pressures. Assume uplift intensity factor as
100%. Also determine the compressive stresses at the toe and the heel, and major principal and shear
3
stress developed at. the. toe. Assume weight of concrete to be 24 kN/m ; unit shear strength of.concrete
3
to be 1400 kN/m , and the coefficient of friction between concrete and foundation soil to be 0.7.
I , 12. The following data refer to the non-overflow section of a gravity dam :
I R.L. of top of the dam =·315 m
I' R.L. of bottom of the dam = 260 m
I I Full reservoir level = 312 m
, . . Top width of the dam = 12 m.
-l-'
1,--.---Tfpstrearr; face is vertical: Downstream f.ace is·-vertical·upto'-RL:'304 m-; and thereafte1~:..:.the _
[I ' downstream face slopes at 0.7 (H): 1 (V) up to base.
' Drainage holes are located 8 m away from the upstream face~
3
Unit weight of masonry = 23 kN/m
Reduction of uplift at drainage hole = 50%
Coefficient of friction between masonry and foundation material = 0.8.
Determine (i) factor of safety agairnit overturning ; (ii) factor of safety against sliding ; (iii)
maximum pressure on foundation, and (iv) maximum principal stress in the masonry of the dam, at the
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF GRAVITY DAMS
1043
base. Consider op.ly the forces due to water thrust, uplift, earthquake (inertial forces due to weight of
masonry only) and the self-weight.
13. (a) Discuss the evolution of the final profile of a gravity dam from its elementary triangular
profile, and explain the main principles of its design.
(b) Write ·a brief note on the netessity and method of foundation treatment of dams.
14. (a) Explain how uplift consideratiohs affect the design of gravity dams. What measures can be
adopted to reduce the undesirable effects due to uplift in such cases ?
(b) Write short notes on :
(i) Darn galleries.
(ii) Cracking of concrete during the construction of concrete gravity dams, and remedi.al measures.
(iii) Provision of keyways in concrete gravity darns.
15. (a) Differentiate between rigid dams and non-rigid dams .
.(b) How are pore pressures and uplift pressures controlled in rigid dams?
(c) Describe briefly the investigations that are necessary, and the treatment which is commonly
given to the foundations of gravity dams, so as to avoid their failures in general.
16. The cross-section of a low gravity darn is shown in Fig. 19.38.
Assuming the reservoir to be full, determine
40m
--~7·5
m i::::::. Line of drain hole
Fig. 19.38
(i) The normal stress ;
(ii) The principal stress ;
(iii) The shear friction factor at base.
Count full uplift as per U.S.B.R. recommendations. Neglect earthquake forces, wave pressure and
---·- -'silt-pressure.
17. Design the practical profile of a gt°a~ity dam made ofstone masonry 'giventhe-fo116wlng-da:ti:---
l R.L. of base of dam ···
R.L. of HFL of reservoir
= 198 m.
= 228 m.
I Specific gravity of masonry = 2.4.
Safe compressive stress in masonry = 1200 kN/m 2.
18. Fig. 19.39 shows the section of a concrete gravity dam. Check the stability of this dam section
~t the base. Assume any data not given and needed.
t-Sm-1,
~--L.
MWL
20m
l
I
I
I
I
f:2·~ 2 :l • I. 1om==:J"
,__--1-t--17m,
·
""t
I I
r-~ of drainage
i gallery
! 1
I
Fig. 19.39
·\

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_19

Design and Construction of Gravity Dams

(3) Pressure due to earthquake forces

Fig. 19.2 (b)

lninaia,tfie entire country has. been divided il~fo five-sel.smlC-zones-depending upon_____ \_

W Uy (i.e. force= Mass x Acceleration)

:. The net effective weight of the dam= W- W ·av.

\ (i) Hydrodynamic pressures. Horizontal acceleration acting towards the reservoir

(2) Rook-fill dams.

17. 4. Selection of the Type of Dam and Their Classifications

DAMS IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR 893

STORIES OF A FEW IMPORTANT DAMS

Fig. 17.3. Photo view of Hoover Dam ..

• Fig. 17.4 (b) Downstream view of Bhakra Dam.

Fig. 17.4. Photoviews of Bhakra Dam.

DAM.S IN GENERAL AND A FEW DAMS IN PARTICULAR 897

(a) Excavation for foundations ... + 42.07 M. cft

(b) Diameter ... 27 ft

CON TROLLED OUT FLOW

<':'.<:~: E:XCESS WATER STORED IN RE~,ERVOIR

Fig. 18.2. A typical contour map of a dam site.

The area at 200.5 m contour is

= [./A;+ ~:~ (i4; - ./A;)] ... [18.1 (a)]

=[./A;+~:~ (..JA; -./A;)r ... [18.1 (b)]

Similarly, the area at 204.5 m contour

=[1A; + ~:~ (~ -1A°;)J ... [18.l (c)]

where A 1, A2 and A 3 are the areas of succeeding con-

- Water spread area in m.sq.m

> or Capacity curve

Fig. 18.3. Area elevation curve and Capacity elevation curve.

RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESbRVOIRS 907

A2 = ci + p· Y2 + Y· Y22 + .. ·Tl · Y2n - I

. Thus, we get n simultaneous equations to determine n number of constants

fAy · ay;, f (a+ p.y +Y,y +·~: .1f.j'- )ay

=[cx.y + p. i2 + \'Y. i3 + ... Tl . ~]·

J8.3. Storage Zones of a Reservoir

Fig. 18.5. Storage zones of a reservoir.

910 IRRIGATION ENGINEERING AND.HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES

DESIGNING RESERVOIR CAPACITY

RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 911

1968 76 1986 122

(iz) Order No. for 50% dependability = ~ x N =

Hence, Annual flow with 50% dependability = 1460.54 M m 3 Ans.

18.4.1.1. Converting the dependa6le rairifaffvalue into the dependable yield

RESERVOIRS AND PLANNING FOR DAM RESERVOIRS 917.

25 50 75 100 125 150

3. Continuous down pour 1.5 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8

. Y;eld (Q) = [I+ 3 ~d ... (18.5)

where m ·= a constant, called monsoon duration Jae-

cal reservoir regulation effect on ·75 ''

(c) Dead Storage Level= FSL of canal at hea.dworks

Month Inflow at dam site in Pan evaporation Precipitation Demand in

I .Table 18.1~. Solution Table for Example 18.6

t 12p.5 101.l 40.2 120.6 33.5 283.1 116.49 308.21 ;d

Fig. 18.9 (a) Fig. 18.9 (b).

Determining Reservoir Capacity for a Given Demand

Run<!ffa.~ volume in Cumulative runoff as vo/i11ne

A1 B 1) will, in this plot, evidently, .;::, Max. storage

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

o: :(~,~s~,)h'.~(J~~r}: 6·6: :;::w:~:~,~L c ~.