STRUCTURAL BEHAVIOUR OF ARCH DAMS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO IDUKKI ARCH DAM

Abstract

Analysis of the behaviour of massive structures is an extremely complex problem on account of various uncertainties in the material properties and external loads on the structure. A sophisticated measurement prooramme is required for deter-mination of the structural behaviour. The knowledge of the structural behaviour is of vital importance to the enaineer, since this enables him to understand the development of the st-resses and strains in the structure and evaluate its safety. This knowledge can very profitably be used for future design and performance analysis more accurately. Measurements of movements and displacements other than stresses and strains are also important in the sense they help to detect the behaviour in zones where stress or strain measurements are not easily possible.