Protecting embankment dams with concrete block systems

Journal Article · Mon Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1991 · Hydro Review; (United States)

OSTI ID:5536867

Clopper, P E ^[1]

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1. Simons, Li Associates, Inc., Fort Collins, CO (United States)

Dam owners are frequently confronted with the costly and difficult task of retrofitting existing embankment dams and associated outlet works to accommodate current estimates of the probable maximum flood (PMF). Searching for a cost-effective retrofit, engineers have recently considered placing a protective overlay on the embankment and allowing limited overtopping. This armoring of the embankment protects against damaging and potentially catastrophic erosion caused by steep-slope, high-velocity flow. Embankment armoring is an alternative to the more costly and time-consuming methods of enlarging flood control spillways, raising embankments, or extending outlet control structures. Structural (reinforced) concrete and, more recently, roller-compacted concrete traditionally have been used for embankment armoring to achieve the desired level of performance and stability. However, articulated concrete block revetments (a series of individual blocks placed together to form an overlay) now offer another viable armoring option. An articulated concrete block revetment may be the method that can achieve the desired level of stability for the least cost. Advantages of the method are its low cost compared to conventional protection techniques and its applicability to a wide range of hydraulic conditions.

• OSTI ID: 5536867
• Journal Information: Hydro Review; (United States), Journal Name: Hydro Review; (United States) Vol. 10:2; ISSN HYREE8; ISSN 0884-0385
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

13 HYDRO ENERGY
130300* -- Hydro Energy-- Plant Design & Operation
BUILDING MATERIALS
CONCRETE BLOCKS
COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
DAMS
DISASTERS
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
ECONOMICS
EMBANKMENTS
EROSION
FLOODS
FLUID FLOW
MATERIALS
SAFETY