TP – 1101 Dam Arch Foundation Investigations

Description

Foundation investigations for arch dams generally must be accomplished in more exacting detail than for other dam types because of the critical relationship of the dam to its foundation and to its abutments. This chapter will describe the procedures which are commonly followed in accomplishing each phase of these investigations including the foundation analysis. It is very important that these investigations employ the latest state-of-the-art techniques in geological and rock mechanics investigations. This work is usually accomplished in relatively discrete increments or phases with each leading to the succeeding one and building upon the previous one. These phases are described as separate sections in the following text and are covered in chronological order as they are normally accomplished. Usually, a considerable amount of geological information and data are available in the form of published literature, maps, remotely sensed imagery, etc. which should be assembled and studied prior to initiation of field investigations. This information is very useful in forming the basis for a very preliminary appraisal of site adequacy and also serves as the basis for initiation of the succeeding phase of the investigation.