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Comprehensive System Analysis and Design of Dams: A Case Study Approach

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Comprehensive System Analysis and Design of Dams: A Case Study Approach

Assignment on System Analysis and Design Pertaining to Dams

Inquiry

Objectives: This examination necessitates a critical analysis of the system design process of a project, using the theories and concepts examined throughout the course. This evaluation item pertains to course learning objectives 1 through 5.

Your group has already examined the conceptual design of a project in Assignment 1. This assignment necessitates the composition of a report that critically evaluates the preliminary and detailed design stages of the project addressed in Assignment 1. Special emphasis must be placed on the system testing, evaluation, and validation methods used, as well as any necessary optimizations. In the Introduction, you must concisely summarize the material addressed in Assignment 1.

The report must use pertinent sources such as journals, books, or esteemed trade periodicals to analyze the project, therefore showcasing your research abilities and comprehension. Additionally, you are required to provide the case study about the aforementioned two lifespan stages and assess the detailed design in relation to the specified needs and criteria. Twenty references are required.

Evaluation Standards

  • Preface
  • Initial design
  • Comprehensive design and development
  • System testing, assessment, validation, and optimization
  • Assessment
  • Research competencies
  • Syntax and orthography

Response

Executive Summary: Earth filling offers a cost-efficient method for the storage of substantial water quantities for livestock or irrigation purposes. In comparison to a dugout, the building cost for the dam might be much lower per gallon of water. This system analysis and design assignment indicates that both dams and poor water quality contribute significantly to excessive vapor loss. Successful dam planning requires thorough site study, design, construction, and maintenance. Without this care, the dam is at risk. There is no feasible category of dam building project. This assignment on system analysis and design includes critical evaluations of the preliminary and detailed design stages of the project. Special emphasis must be placed on the system testing, evaluation, and validation methods used, as well as any necessary optimizations.

Introduction: Early rock-fill and earth-fill embankments are often built as basic homogeneity systems with identical materials. Initially, there was little effort to partition the dam into distinct sections, each adorned with a meticulously placed cloth. The dam's weight induces the horizontal push of the water pressure to deflect downward toward the foundation. The pressure exerted on the Muse should not induce significant deformation, since this might primarily result in project failure, as elaborated in this system analysis and design assignment. The dam must be sturdy, and its slope must not erode or collapse. Furthermore, soil liquefaction must be prevented, and soil erosion caused by water overflow should be mitigated, along with the emergence of waves on the upstream surface or finer materials seeping through coarser textures. Similar to concrete dams, water infiltration via the reservoir under the Muse and the actual embankment should provide a degree of protection.

Initial design
Specifications for Design


Most dams possess a much greater surface area than shallow ponds and are less deep. Consequently, the dam experiences more evaporation loss compared to the refuge, and the water quality is substandard (Acosta et al., 2018).

Operational Standards
The dam site's features and background information are addressed in many public publications about mining activities, including operation, expansion, and closure (Ahmad, 2018). This section of the study concentrates on subjects directly associated with the preliminary design of the primary dam. This include bedrock characterisation and localized problems;

  • Characterization of overlays and permafrost;
  • Hydrogeology
  • Chronicle of the precarious terrain; and
  • Characteristics of tailings

Engineering design activities

                                             Source of Image: aboutcivil.org

The selection of the design cross section finalizes the comprehensive dam replacement evaluation to ascertain the optimal design cross section for preliminary engineering. The selection procedure entails generating a list of potential dam options, assessing each option, and then choosing a preferable alternative (Aniskin and Antonov, 2018). The preliminary evaluation involves comparing the merits and limitations of each dam proposal, assigning a low, medium, or high preference rating to each. The choice to get a low preference rating is deemed inappropriate for further evaluation. A medium or high priority dam alternative was designated for further assessment. This encompasses geosynthetic linings, fine-grained core dams, and their combinations. Liners effectively reduce leakage; yet, their efficacy requires substantial faith in the liner's integrity. The penetration of the fine core is contingent upon the permeability and integrity of the core. While both design options are appropriate, the combination of a liner and fine core dam is favored due to its provision of redundancy (Djarwadi et al., 2014). The favored dam section is shown in SRK-MD-06. Infiltration containment will be facilitated by a liner positioned upstream of the fine core embedded in the rock. Effective filtering and coupling will guarantee sufficient safeguarding of the liner and core. The LLDPE liner has been chosen as the ideal liner due to its superior strain capacity compared to other geosynthetics, considering the probable deformation from thawing, settling, and consolidation.

Comprehensive design
Upon completion of the preliminary system analysis and design assignment, and identification of the appropriate location, the subsequent stage is to do a comprehensive survey of the site and reservoir area to precisely quantify and provide the necessary data for the design work (Jing and Yongbiao, 2012). This system analysis and design project aims to illustrate the reservoir's contour map on paper until the maximum flood level is attained and surpassed, while also offering comprehensive details on the positioning of an embankment, spillway, and spout. The reservoir's capacity may be determined from the contour map to suit varying dam heights. The depth-capacity curve can be plotted to offer dam designers a swift and straightforward method for selecting the optimal full supply level on extensive sites. Contour maps can be generated at suitable design intervals, typically 0.5 m for smaller dams. Aerial photography and satellite imagery, utilizing specific stereo mapping and digitization techniques, although costly, can be justified for their time-saving benefits (Lach and Opyrcha?, 2017). Nonetheless, if this is unfeasible (often in a smaller area), one of the following three terrestrial survey techniques is necessary:

  • Grid survey: It is an easy but time-consuming approach. If a place is verdant and physically inaccessible, it may be unfeasible.
  • A cross-sectional survey was performed along several lines inside the valley, using previously established baselines.
  • Point height: This is particularly appropriate for expansive regions. Construct a reference circuit and measure the azimuth, distance, and elevation of each station (Luo et al., 2014).

Dam design: To ensure stability, the upstream slope must have a ratio of at least 3:1. Corrosion prevention is necessary to safeguard the dam against wave damage. This protection may be achieved by amalgamating small and big rocks (or other suitable materials) and can be realized via the use of floating log booms for little projects. Downstream slopes need a gradient of at least 2:1, and natural grass is cultivated to mitigate surface erosion. To regulate road traffic and minimize the risk of corrosion, the crest of the dam should be a minimum of 10 feet broad, ideally 15 feet. The peak height must exceed the reservoir's full water supply (FSL) by a minimum of 3 feet. Dams should be restricted to avoid cattle movement, since this traffic may significantly contribute to deterioration (Sainov and Anisimov, 2017).

                      Source of Image: smalldamsguidelines.water.go.ke

Spillway design is a critical component of dam building. An inadequately built spillway will result in the stove overflowing during significant runoff or serious degradation of the spillway. Besides the expense of dam repairs, these situations may lead to significant water damage, possible flooding, and downstream destruction. The intake spillway construction of little irrigation dams is prohibitively costly. The cutting or natural spillway is the most prevalent kind. The spillway must be engineered with a wide base and a gradual slope to mitigate water flow and soil erosion. The base and the periphery of the spillway should also be sodded with grass. To avert spillway erosion, if the foundation slopes of the spillway are vertical, it may be essential to use a revetment (a layer of loose stones) or in conjunction with geotextile fabric. The cutting spillway slope must be no less than 2:1, with a preference for a 4:1 slope. The spillway must be far from the dam's packing, avoiding direct proximity or packing (Song, Song, and Kwon, 2005). Culverts are often used in spline designs, and if they are undersized, they restrict spillway flow and result in engineering failure.

The completed dam should be constructed using indigenous clay material. A basic field test involves assessing the suitability of a material by introducing a tiny quantity of moisture and thereafter evaluating its impact on the stability of the band. Subsequently, attempt to manipulate the substance by rolling it between the hands (Wang, 2014). If the material can be spun within a diameter of about 6 inches and then looped without separation, it exhibits favorable compaction characteristics.

Cost estimation for dam construction: The expense of the dam may now be determined based on the cost of a previously constructed dam in the same vicinity or the rates offered by local contractors and/or government agencies. A list of amounts may thereafter be constructed in accordance with the directives provided in Table 3. When finalizing a dam design and cost plan with the private sector, it is crucial to maintain the confidentiality of the costing parameters in Table 3 and any engineer's estimations, using them only as a reference for assessing bids. Additional recommendations for constructing a dam are included in Annex 1 (Yang, 2013).

The dam is the primary component, necessitating adherence to certain design and construction guidelines: the upstream slope must not exceed 1:2, while the downstream slope should be 1:1.75. If the dam is constructed from inferior materials or is susceptible to assaults by bulls or waves, the slope should be less steep to address the circumstances at hand.

Filters and drain filters are costly and often do not need minor dams. All "filter" drains are engineered to diminish the surface of the embankment to inhibit water from flowing out of the downstream slope (Zhang et al., 2016). Corrosion and absorption may lead to material failure, jeopardizing the integrity of the whole structure.

Processes of system testing, assessment, validation, and optimization
Identify the appropriate materials for constructing earth and concrete dams in both field and laboratory settings. Standardized testing methodologies have been delineated to assess soil characteristics and strength. They are used for architectural reasons to assess soil compatibility and to identify the optimal moisture content for achieving maximum density and shear strength. The unethical quarterly shear strength tests were conducted on compacted materials. Sand and gravel samples were analyzed to ascertain the appropriate proportions for the concrete mixture. Porosity and permeability assessments were performed to evaluate the appropriateness of semi-fertilizer at the source of the filled dam (Zhou et al., 2011). The strength of rock and concrete may be assessed using randomized impact testing on the sample.

Testing and validation: Identify the appropriate materials for the building of earth and concrete dams in both field and laboratory settings. Standardized testing methodologies have been delineated to ascertain soil characteristics and strength. They are used for architectural reasons to assess soil compatibility and identify the optimal moisture content for achieving maximum density and shear strength. The unethical quarterly shear strength tests were conducted on compacted materials. Sand and gravel samples were categorized to ascertain the appropriate ratio for the concrete mixture (Acosta et al., 2018). Porosity and permeability experiments were performed to assess the appropriateness of semi-fertilizer at the origin of the filled dam. Strength measurements of rock and concrete may also be ascertained using randomized impact testing on the sample.

Optimization: The dam is a critical and costly civil engineering construction, significantly impacting the national budget (Ahmad, 2018). The expense of constructing a dam is directly proportional to the magnitude of the earthwork necessary for its construction, which is contingent upon the dam's cross-section. Consequently, smaller dam segments are proportionately linked to less earthworks and diminished building expenses. The conventional approach to dam design makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to achieve the optimal dam section that satisfies stability and performance criteria while minimizing earthwork volume. This system analysis and design project focused on evaluating the impact of using the bee colony algorithm to optimize the earthwork volume of the dam (Aniskin and Antonov, 2018). Consequently, we have established several platforms to create distinct instances in the construction of dam sections, thereby significantly minimizing the extent of earthworks. The compilation of findings shown as a linear graph will satisfy the design specifications for various dam types, considering the primary circumstances of the issue. Refer to the relevant table to assess the volume of earthwork necessary for various dam heights and ascertain the confidence levels associated with particular standard heights. Individuals may get the requisite information based on the material used in the dam by consulting the relevant chart (Djarwadi et al., 2014).

Assessment: In the planning phase, if the problem remains ambiguous, the owner should consult a skilled and experienced specialist. Ultimately, this may save substantial financial resources and time. Accurately read and comprehend the stipulations of the dam project permit subsequent to its approval. If clarification is needed, consult a qualified and experienced expert (Jing and Yongbiao, 2012). Dams must be erected in compliance with the requirements stipulated by the dam project to ensure safety. The Water Management Act of 1999 gives the agency the ability to undertake different measures and impose penalties for noncompliance with dam permission requirements. The license holder of the dam project must provide the contractor with pertinent drawings and blueprints for the project proposal. The information in these drawings and plans must align with the dam's size, complexity, and danger categories, as outlined in the relevant ANCOLD document, and must be completed by trained staff. This stipulation is included in the licensing terms (Lach and Opyrcha?, 2017).

Final Assessment
Numerous efforts may be undertaken to get the appropriate humidity for the test. The construction materials extracted from adjacent hills or excavated in the reservoir region must be maintained horizontally in a 6-inch filler layer and should be consolidated. If the material is dry, moisture must be supplied, and the suitable compaction mechanism should be used to get the desired component. To assess adequate compaction, position the edges of the rigid sole on a basic test filler and apply substantial pressure. If just a single mark remains, the composition is deemed good. If the heel is immersed, then the compaction is inadequate. Rocks over 6 inches in diameter should not be retained in the filling. The creation of design pictures is essential for delivering thorough and functional visuals for engineering implementation and final bidding and contract awards. Standardization of these images is essential, along with sufficient data on the document to elucidate the design, a listing of the primary quantities, and comprehensive information on the location. Our engineering assignment assistance specialists from prestigious colleges are preparing system analysis and design tasks, enabling us to provide you dependable assignment support services.
References
Acosta, L., de Lacy, M., Ramos, M., Cano, J., Herrera, A., Avilés, M. and Gil, A. (2018). Displacements Study of an Earth Fill Dam Based on High Precision Geodetic Monitoring and Numerical Modeling. Sensors, 18(5), p.1369.

Ahmad, A. (2018). Which software used in Designing of small earthfill Dams?. [online] Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/post/Which_software_used_in_Designing_of_small_earthfill_Dams [Accessed 25 Sep. 2018].

Aniskin, N. and Antonov, A. (2018). Spatial seepage mathematical model of the earth-fill dam in complicated topographic and engineering-geological conditions. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 365, p.042084.

Aniskin, N. and Antonov, A. (2018). Spatial seepage mathematical model of the earth-fill dam in complicated topographic and engineering-geological conditions. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 365, p.042084.

Jing, T. and Yongbiao, L. (2012). Penalty Function Element Free Method to Solve Complex Seepage Field of Earth Fill Dam. IERI Procedia, 1, pp.117-123.

Lach, S. and Opyrcha?, L. (2017). Using the modified scalar product approach for testing the direction of seepage through the earth-fill dam in Pieczyska. Journal of Water and Land Development, 33(1), pp.89-98.

Luo, Y., Chen, L., Xu, M. and Huang, J. (2014). Breaking mode of the cohesive homogeneous earth-rock-fill dam by overtopping flow. Natural Hazards, 74(2), pp.527-540.

Sainov, M. and Anisimov, O. (2017). Stress-strain state of seepage-control wall constructed for repairs of earth rock-fill dam. Magazine of Civil Engineering, 68(08), pp.3-17.

Song, S., Song, Y. and Kwon, B. (2005). Application of hydrogeological and geophysical methods to delineate leakage pathways in an earth-fill dam. Exploration Geophysics, 36(1), p.92.

Wang, J. (2014). Hydraulic fracturing in earth-rock fill dams. Singapore: Wiley.

Yang, H. (2013). A New Approach to Quality Detecting and Measuring of Earth-Fill Dam. Applied Mechanics and Materials, 303-306, pp.421-425.

Zhang, X., Zhao, M., Wang, K., Liu, P. and Liu, H. (2016). Application of 3D Electrical Resistivity Tomography for Diagnosing Leakage in Earth Rock-Fill Dam. Engineering, 08(05), pp.269-275.

Zhou, G., Zhao, J., Wen, Y. and Yang, Z. (2011). Study on Seismic Permanent Deformation of Earth Rock Fill Dam. Applied Mechanics and Materials, 105-107, pp.1452-1455.

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