ANALYSIS OF RIGID DAM FOUNDATIONS WITH FAULT

Abstract

The pattern of stress distribution and deformations in the foundation mass are of great concern in thr.. case of gravity dam. A l.a.rge area of the t.Jestern and Central India is covered by geological formations known as Deccan Tray, which mainly consist of basalt rocks. These rocks provide excellent foundation from the point of view- of both per-meability and strength. Several dams were successfully cons-tructed and are being planned at present on these formations. However many foundations now explored have faults With highly deformable material distintegrating under exposure to air and water. This situation poses a serious problem to dam designer. Due to large size of the dam and reservoir loads, high stress-es are developed in the dam, which m-)y ultimately lead to its cracking and failure.