Factors affecting selection of dam type
- Topographical situation of the dam site:
- Foundation/Geological condition:
- The Availability of Construction materials
- The Earthquake zone
- The spillway size and its location
- Height of the Dam
- Other factors such as cost of construction and maintenance, life of dam, aesthetics etc.
1. Topographical situation of the dam site:
The topography of the dam site is the first criterion to be taken into consideration in the selection of the dam type.
2. Foundation/Geological condition:
The foundation condition of the dam site is not suitable for each dam type. All the forces acting on a dam, are finally transmitted to the foundation. So the selection of a dam type, mainly depends upon the type of foundation.
3. The Availability of Construction materials
In order to achieve economy in dam construction, the materials required must be available locally or at short distances from the construction site. It reduce the cost of construction of the dam.
4. The Earthquake zone
If a dam is to be constructed in an earthquake zone, the dam should be such which can resist the earthquake waves. Generally, in such areas, the earthfill or concrete gravity dams are constructed.
5. The spillway size and its location
spillway disposes the surplus river discharge. The capacity of the spillway will depend on the magnitude of the floods to be by-passed. The spillway is therefore much more important on rivers and streams with large flood potential.
6. Height of the Dam
Earthen dams are usually not provided for heights more than 30 m or so. For greater heights, gravity dams are generally preferred.
