Stormwater and Dams
Stormwater and Dams
SEPTEMBER 2011
REVISION 0
SYNOPSIS :
This report covers the concept design of a new coal mine planned by Exxaro in the vicinity of
Belfast to be used as part of the water use license application for the Belfast Project,
Mpumalanga.
KEY WORDS :
Concept design report, storm water management, dam sizing and design, low level bridge,
lining design, pans, spillways, culverts, drains.
QUALITY VERIFICATION
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................. 1
ii
8.2 SEPARATION SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 14
8.3 DESIGN APPROACH .......................................................................................... 14
8.3.1 SYSTEM PERIMETER ............................................................................................................ 14
8.3.2 INNER SYSTEM ...................................................................................................................... 16
iii
12.8.1 GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION ....................................................................................... 36
12.8.2 DAM WALL DIMENSIONS ...................................................................................................... 37
12.8.3 SLOPE STABILITY ANALYSIS ............................................................................................... 37
12.8.4 CONSTRUCTION METHOD ................................................................................................... 39
12.8.5 CAUTION ................................................................................................................................. 39
iv
16.2.3 CONSTRUCTED REEDBED .................................................................................................. 56
17. CONCLUSIONS................................................................................................. 58
18. BIBLIOGRAPHY................................................................................................ 59
List of Annexures
Annexure A: SITE HYDROLOGY CALCULATIONS
Annexure B: DRAIN SIZING
Annexure C: PANS AND DAMS
Annexure D: CULVERT SIZING
Annexure E: LOW LEVEL STRUCTURE
Annexure F: GRASS BLOCK SYSTEM
Annexure G: GEOTECHNICAL REPORT
Annexure H: CONCEPT DESIGN DRAWINGS
List of Figures
Figure 1: Site Location ............................................................................................................. 1
Figure 2: General Topography and Vegetation on Site ............................................................ 6
Figure 3: Google Image of Site ................................................................................................ 7
Figure 4: Plant Area Limitations ............................................................................................... 8
Figure 5: Clean (Blue) and Dirty Water (Red) Catchment Areas ........................................... 15
Figure 6: Cut-Off Drains and Berms (Yellow lines) ................................................................ 15
Figure 7: Natural Pan Positions.............................................................................................. 17
Figure 8: Natural Pan East Balance Model ......................................................................... 18
Figure 9: Natural Pan West Undivided Balance Model ....................................................... 19
Figure 10: Natural Pan West Divided Balance Model ......................................................... 20
Figure 11: Silt Trap Incorporated into Dam(DWAF-A4, Aug 2007) ........................................ 22
Figure 12: Superelevated Sections of Haul Road (Yellow Lines) ........................................... 22
Figure 13: Dam Positions ....................................................................................................... 29
Figure 14: Stability analysis for the inside slope of the dam wall ........................................... 38
Figure 15: Stability analysis for the outside slope of the dam wall ......................................... 38
Figure 16: Dam Positions ....................................................................................................... 41
v
Figure 17: Typical Lined Dam (DWAF-A4, Aug 2007) ........................................................... 41
Figure 18: Hazardous Waste Lagoons: Minimum Requirements for Liner Design ................ 42
Figure 19: Alternative Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option A ............................ 43
Figure 20: Alternative Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option B ............................ 43
Figure 21: Proposed Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option C .............................. 44
Figure 22: Proposed Lining System for Storm water Dams ................................................... 46
Figure 23: Proposed Lining System for Emergency Slurry Dam ............................................ 47
Figure 24: Proposed Lining System for Biofilter Dam ............................................................ 47
Figure 25: Position of Leakage Detection Sumps (Purple) .................................................... 48
Figure 26: Seepage Collection System .................................................................................. 49
Figure 27: Lined Stockpile Areas (shaded orange) ................................................................ 50
Figure 28: Position of Low Level Stream Crossing ................................................................ 51
Figure 29: Result Of Pond Evaporation Modelling (1.5m Depth) ........................................... 55
List of Tables
Table 1: 24hr Rainfall depths ................................................................................................... 9
Table 2: Average Monthly Evaporation Rates .......................................................................... 9
Table 3: Typical Drain Sizes Implemented ............................................................................. 25
Table 4: Silt Trap Dimensions ................................................................................................ 26
Table 5: PCD Size Classification ............................................................................................ 27
Table 6: Hazard Potential Classification ................................................................................. 27
Table 7: Category Classification of Dams with a Safety Risk ................................................. 27
Table 8: Category Classification of Belfast Dams .................................................................. 28
Table 9: Simplified Practical Freeboard Guidelines ............................................................... 30
Table 10: Operational Requirements of Dams ....................................................................... 31
Table 11: Spillway Sizes ........................................................................................................ 33
Table 12: Lining of Dams ....................................................................................................... 33
Table 13: Subsurface Drainage Measures for Dams ............................................................. 34
Table 14: Dam Dimensions and Volumes .............................................................................. 36
Table 15: Summary of Strength Test Results ........................................................................ 37
Table 16: Dam Content .......................................................................................................... 40
Table 17: Low Level Crossing Flood Levels........................................................................... 52
vi
Table 18: Proposed Low Level Structure ............................................................................... 53
Table 19: Evaporation Data Used In The Modelling............................................................... 55
vii
1. INTRODUCTION
Exxaro Resources Limited (Exxaro) appointed Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd (J&G) to
undertake the conceptual design of a surface water runoff system for the proposed plant
area of the Belfast Project.
The Belfast Project is located in Mpumalanga and approximately 10km southwest of
Belfast on the farms Leeuwbank, Blyvooruitzicht and Zoekop.
Exxaro is evaluating the utilisation of its coal reserves at the site and has commissioned
several studies to this effect. The conceptual design of surface water runoff is specifically
required for the Water Use License Application (WULA) which would pave the way for
further and more detailed studies to commence. Refer to Figure 1.
Figure 1: Site Location
1
2. PROJECT OBJECTIVES
The objective can be summarised as the development and design of a storm water
drainage system in compliance with environmental and water management requirements
and legislation as applicable to the mining industry in order to ensure a successful Water
Use License Application (WULA).
The following main requirements must be met for compliance:
Unpolluted water to be confined to a clean water system.
Polluted water to be confined to a closed system (runoff and seepage).
Polluted and unpolluted systems not to spill over more than once in 50 years.
Systems to be fully serviceable for floods up to the 1:50 year.
No infrastructure within the 1:100 year flood-line or within 100m from a water
course, estuary etc.
Minimum freeboard of 800mm above full supply level applicable to dams (unless
otherwise specified in the relevant act).
The effect of any watercourse diversions and runoff reductions to be minimised.
To comply with Dam Safety Regulations.
To comply with regulations on the use of water for mining, Government Notice 704.
2
3. EXECUTION METHODOLOGY
The execution methodology followed is:
Gather available information:
Topography and digital terrain model (DTM).
Previous reports relating to surface water, water balance, hydrology etc.
Previous reports relating to environmental issues.
Relevant legislation.
Client specific requirements.
Confirm scope of work:
Determine the size and layout of clean and dirty water drains and specify
erosion protection.
Determine the size of Storm Water Dams, specify protection and design
spillways.
Design low level crossing and determine impact on flood-lines.
Propose sewerage treatment plant type and size.
Design and determine the size of a Biofilter Dam.
Design Pollution Control Dams (certified dam engineer where appropriate).
Design linings appropriate to hazard.
Write report and compile drawings.
Design of pumping systems is excluded.
Design recommendations for Discard Facility in compliance to WULA
regulations.
Stockpile design recommendations for compliance to WULA regulations.
Site visits.
Carry out geotechnical testing.
Confirm plant layout.
Provisional sizing and layout to be checked for space constraints and adjustments
to be made if required.
Design, drawings and report complete with options and recommendations.
3
Internal review and submit to Exxaro.
Exxaro to exercise options.
Adjust, peer review and submit final documents to Exxaro.
4
4. LEGAL FRAMEWORK
The legal requirements as summarised in the Best Practice Guidelines issued by the
Directorate: Resource Protection & Waste of the Department: Water Affairs and Forestry
were referenced. The following sections of the Best Practice Guidelines are of specific
relevance:
G1 Storm Water Management, Section 5 (DWAF-G1, Aug 2006)
A2 Water Management for Mine Residue Deposits, Section 5 (DWAF-A2, Jul
2008)
A4 Pollution Control Dams, Section 5 (DWAF-A4, Aug 2007)
A5 Water Management for Surface Mines, Section 4 (DWAF-A5, Jul 2008)
Of the Acts referred to in the Guidelines, the following form the backbone of the framework:
National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998)
Government Notice No. 704, 4 June 1999 (Regulations on the use of water for
mining)
Government Notice R.1560 of 25 July 1986 (Dam Safety Regulations)
National Environment Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998)
5
5. SITE DESCRIPTION
5.1 TOPOGRAPHY
The plant is situated on the western banks of the Klein-Komatirivier with a Return Water
Dam on the eastern bank. The topography of the western bank slopes gently (<3%)
towards the river and the eastern bank is more steep (8%) but then flattening off above the
1770 contour at the dam site.
At the time of the site visit, July 2011, the majority of the area was used for cattle grazing.
The area is covered by grassland (Figure 2) and there is no evidence of recent crop
cultivation except in the Discard Facility area. Refer to Figure 3.
Plantations of wattle, blue gum and pine trees have been planted to the north and east of
the proposed site with portions of the Discard Facility and Plant areas occupied by stands
of trees. Refer to Figure 3.
Figure 2: General Topography and Vegetation on Site
6
Figure 3: Google Image of Site
5.2 CONSTRAINTS
The plant area is restricted by (Figure 4):
Coal reserves to the north and east (blast lines and mining operations).
Klein-Komatirivier to the west (the 1:50 and 1:100 flood-lines and a 100m clear zone
from the stream centre).
Property boundary to the east.
Provincial road to the south (building line restriction of 95m from the road centre
line).
Two pans to the west.
7
Figure 4: Plant Area Limitations
All the above is fixed with the exception of the building line. Following discussions with the
regional office of the Roads Department, the building line restriction for this class of road
can be relaxed to 16m measured from the edge of the road reserve. The road reserve for
road D1770 is 25m and the effective distance is now 28,5m. A formal application is in
process.
The original plant layout (Aurecon, Jun 2011) was revised to shift the plant layout as far as
possible away from the wetland and flood-lines. This updated layout (Drawing 002802-BP-
1) was used as the basis for the concept design.
8
6. SITE HYDROLOGY
A different method was applied by GCS in their report Glisa Hydrological Study (GCS, Jan
2011). Runoff data from the WR2005 database (WRC, 2008) was used in the report. The
Glisa colliery is also owned by Exxaro and is west of Belfast. The MAP for Glisa is slightly
higher at 714mm.
As the catchment area is in the headwaters of the Komati River and relatively small,
preference was given to the historic rainfall data.
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tot
Belfast Pan
Evaporation 138 138 156 164 140 138 104 91 75 81 102 124 1451
(mm)
Glisa Pan
Evaporation 189 169 163 122 106 88 93 129 175 195 185 200 1814
(mm)
9
6.3 HYDROLOGY
10
6.3.3 FLOOD VOLUME ESTIMATION
Flood volumes are most accurately determined from flow stations for bigger catchments.
Where not applicable, the unit hydrograph is recommended where the hydrograph shape is
of importance. The Rational and SDF methods assume a triangular hydrograph. These
methods are applicable to single storm events.
The requirements calls for 1:50 year 24hr runoff which is best calculated using statistical
data from the SAWS.
6.4 LIMITATIONS
All hydrology calculations are based upon contour information (0,5m intervals) and a Lidar
survey provided by Exxaro. No flow data is available close to this section of the Klein-
Komatirivier, and estimated Manning n values for the river and banks were used in the
calculations.
Topographical maps (1:50 000) of the Chief Directorate of Survey and Mapping were used
for areas outside that covered by the Lidar survey.
11
7. SURFACE GEOLOGY
The dam sites are underlain by rock units of the Dwyka Group of the Karoo Supergroup and
the area to the east is underlain by rock units of the Vryheid Formation.
Fieldwork was carried out in June 2011 and a detailed report can be found in Annexure G.
12
7.2 PROBLEMATIC SOILS
7.2.3 AGGRESSIVENESS
Soils were found to be highly aggressive towards concrete and highly corrosive towards
metals. This nature of the soil must be taken into account in the design of any buried
structures.
13
8. CLEAN AND DIRTY WATER SEPARATION
14
Figure 5: Clean (Blue) and Dirty Water (Red) Catchment Areas
15
8.3.2 INNER SYSTEM
The inner system need not be designed for the 1:50 year recurrence as it is contained
within the outer perimeter. The inner system design is a function of safety, operational and
maintenance requirements.
The minimum recurrence interval used for the design is 10 years although a lower figure
can be used. This recurrence interval is deemed appropriate as maintenance requirements
necessitate bigger culverts and drains, and the additional cost is minimal.
During detail design, these assumptions should be revisited as critical areas may require
adjustments. Critical areas include high value, high operational risk as well as areas where
safety can be an issue.
16
9. CLEAN WATER SYSTEM
9.1 PANS
The clean water system incorporates two Natural Pans located to the west of the plant
(Figure 7) referred to as Natural Pan East and Natural Pan West. Refer to Drawing
002802-BP- 2 to see the pans in relation to the clean and dirty water areas as well as the
Mining Area.
Figure 7: Natural Pan Positions
17
Figure 8: Natural Pan East Balance Model
1775.0
1774.5
1774.0
1773.5
1773.0
May 01
Sep 01
Jan 02
May 02
Sep 02
Jan 03
May 03
Sep 03
Jan 04
May 04
Sep 04
9.1.2 NATURAL PAN WEST
The Natural Pan West is intersected by the property boundary as well as the mining
perimeter as evident on Figure 7. There are neighbouring mining related activities taking
place to the west of the pan. To mitigate his clash, the Mining Area can be reduced or the
pan can be divided by a wall.
A modelling was carried out for the two scenarios:
a) Undivided
The first scenario is the reduction of the Mining Area. The pan will remain in its natural
state but coal reserves will be sterilized.
From Figure 9 it is clear that the pan will not overflow even if there is no infiltration. No
overflow structure is required for this scenario.
The possibility of retaining the Natural Pan West was investigated, but this will result in
the sterilization of coal reserves. Given the impact on the reserves and the
neighbouring mining activities, this scenario is not regarded as desirable.
18
Figure 9: Natural Pan West Undivided Balance Model
1786.5
1786.0
1785.5
1785.0
1784.5
Jan 02
Jan 03
Jan 04
May 01
Sep 01
May 02
Sep 02
May 03
Sep 03
May 04
Sep 04
b) Divided
The second scenario is of the pan being divided by a wall on the property boundary.
The eastern half will then fall in the Mining Area.
The model in Figure 10 confirms that the pan may be at the overflow level at the onset
of the 1:50 year event (assuming infiltration is less than 5%) and an overflow should be
provided.
19
Figure 10: Natural Pan West Divided Balance Model
1787.0
1786.5
1786.0
1785.5
1785.0
1784.5
Natural Overflow Level
1784.0
Infiltration 0%
1783.5 Infiltration 5%
Infiltration 10%
1783.0
Sep 03
Sep 04
Jan 01
Sep 01
Sep 02
Jan 02
Jan 03
Jan 04
May 01
May 02
May 03
May 04
Scenario b) was assumed for the concept design. This entails the construction of a wall
with a freeboard of 800mm minimum and a spillway and drain to cater for a 1:50 year event.
It has the advantage of not sterilizing coal reserves and any overflow would be diverted as
clean water to the Klein-Komatirivier.
9.1.3 DISCHARGE
The runoff from the clean water areas is conveyed by a system of drains and culverts
through or around the dirty areas.
Where clean water has to be diverted through the dirty areas, it is protected by a berm on
all sides of sufficient height to prevent cross contamination for a 50 year recurrence event.
Refer to nodes C4, C5a up to C5b on Drawing 002802-BP- 1.
20
10. DIRTY WATER SYSTEM
10.1 DIVISIONS
Given the topography of the area and to reduce risk, the dirty water system is divided into
three separate areas:
Hard and Soft Stockpile Area (D1)
Discard Facility (D2)
Plant Area (D5)
Refer to Figure 5 for the clean and dirty water catchment areas. More detail can be found
on Drawing 002802-BP- 2. Points D1, D2 and D5 indicate dams for collecting runoff.
10.2 SEDIMENTATION
A network of open drains collects water from the dirty areas and discharges the runoff into
the Storm Water Dams.
To protect Storm Water Dams from sedimentation, silt traps are located as close as
possible to the source of contamination. Some drainage lines may pass through more than
one silt trap.
Silt traps are also provided next to all Storm Water Dams with a side overflow into the
dams. Alternative arrangements can be considered during detailed design e.g. Figure 11
(DWAF-A4, Aug 2007).
21
Figure 11: Silt Trap Incorporated into Dam(DWAF-A4, Aug 2007)
22
11. DRAIN AND CULVERT DESIGNS
11.1 DRAINS
23
Two sizes of grass blocks were considered:
Type 140 weight of 140kg/m2 and can be used for velocities up to 3m/s.
Type 180 weight of 180kg/m2 and can be used for velocities up to 6m/s
The disadvantage of grass blocks is that it is more difficult to maintain where
sedimentation may take place. For this reason, its use should rather be restricted to
clean water systems or where water is not highly polluted with sediment.
More detail on a commercial product can be found in Annexure F.
d) Concrete
Concrete lined drains can be designed to withstand velocities of up to 8m/s (SANRAL,
2006) if heavily reinforced. Thin linings (60mm) can be used up to 2,5 m/s, but this is
not practical in a mining environment. A maximum velocity of 5m/s was used.
e) Gabion Mattresses
These mattresses are not normally used for the lining of drains as they are expensive
and difficult to clean when silted up. Their most appropriate application is for protection
of banks, stilling basins, retaining walls, spillways etc.
They have been used in combination with the other linings, especially concrete, to
dissipate energy.
Safe velocities for gabions are determined by their thickness and size of stone used.
This should be addressed during the detail design phase.
24
The types are indicated on Drawing 002802-BP- 4 and their positions on Drawing 002802-
BP- 1 and Drawing 002802-BP- 3.
Table 3: Typical Drain Sizes Implemented
11.2 CULVERTS
25
The calculations are attached in Annexure D. These calculations are cross-referenced to
the catchment areas presented in Annexure A. Pipe sizes are indicated for comparison
only, and they are not recommended.
26
12. DAM DESIGNS
All dams under consideration are classified as small as their wall height is less than 12m.
The Hazard Potential Classification of the two biggest dams (Return Water Dam East and
27
Return Water Dam West) is Significant based upon the potential economic loss for the
proposed mining operation. The Hazard Potential Classification of the other dams is
Minimal.
Although only the Return Water Dams must be designed by an Approved Professional
Person, it is recommended that all the dams be checked by such a person.
The Category Classification for the PCDs can be found in Table 8. Capacity calculation is
dealt with under Section 12.7 and Freeboard determination under Section 12.2.
Table 8: Category Classification of Belfast Dams
1 2 3
No. PCD Type Volume Required Wall Height Freeboard Classification
3
D2 Storm Water Dam 17 100 m 3.3m 0.8m Category I
3
D6 Biofilter Dam 30 000m max 2.3m 0.8m Category I
3
D7 Return Water Dam 230 000m 9.0m 1.5m Category II
1 2
No. Clean Water Types Volume Required Wall Height Classification
3
PW Divided Pan 64 800m 2.0m 0.8m Category I
1
Excluding freeboard.
2
Measured from crest to invert, including free board.
3
Minimum Freeboard requirement.
Refer to Figure 13 for the position of the dams (more detail on Drawing 002802-BP- 1).
28
Figure 13: Dam Positions
29
Flood Surges will have a minimal impact on Freeboard. The remaining dams are
small (Table 8) and do not pose a safety risk w.r.t. freeboard.
The Interim Guidelines present a practical and simplified table for the circumstances
explained above. The relevant data is reflected in Table 9.
Table 9: Simplified Practical Freeboard Guidelines
1
Category and Type of Dam Total Freeboard
1
Measured between design water level and non-overspill crest.
Refer to Table 8 for a summary of Freeboard requirements for the Belfast dams.
30
12.3 OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The operational requirements as summarised in Table 10 were used as the basis for the
design.
Table 10: Operational Requirements of Dams
Emergency Slurry Dam D4 Evaporate excess fluid and remove to dump / discard
facility.
Source: Plant processing.
Return Water Dams D7,D8 Operate at level to accommodate dirty water inflow,
less outflow and losses and maintain at required
operational level. Operational level provides for direct
rain collection and freeboard.
Source: Pumped from Mining Areas
Natural Pan PE None. Pan will overflow naturally and follow clean
water path and drain.
Source: Clean storm water runoff.
31
12.4 SPILLWAYS
The dams are discussed below:
a) Storm Water Dams (D1, D2, D5)
These are provided with spillways to accommodate 1:100 year 24hr events as the
timing of the event cannot be predicted or managed. The minimum freeboard is 0.8m
as per Table 8. Dam D1 is to be provided with a gabion lined overflow.
b) Process Water Dam (D3)
This dam is similar in operation to the Return Water Dams discussed below. The
spillway and volume has been designed to accommodate the 1:100 year events.
c) Emergency Slurry Dam (D4)
This facility should be maintained at a low level and no spillway is provided.
d) Biofilter Dam (D6)
A spillway is provided and sized to accommodate a 1:100 year event. The minimum
freeboard is 0.8m as per Table 8.
e) Return Water Dams (D7, D8)
A combination of float valves and level sensors can be installed to shut-off pumps at a
preset level. The dams are elevated above ground level so no storm water runoff can
enter the dam. Provision has to be made for rainfall collected over the dam surface.
The spillway has been designed to allow for a 1:100 year peak flow event combined
with the peak rate of inflow from the pumps. The minimum freeboard is 1.5m as per
Table 8. These are the only Category II dams.
f) Natural Pan East (PE)
No spillway is provided for the Natural Pan East as it will not overflow for a 1:50 or even
a 1:100 recurrence interval (refer to section 9.1.1). The outflow will follow its natural
path up to the diversion though the plant area.
g) Natural Pan West (PW)
An overflow is provided for the Natural Pan West Divided as it is likely to overflow
(refer to section 9.1.2). The overflow is designed for a 1:100 year event and
constructed from gabions.
The spillway sizes are summarised in Table 11 below. The spillway calculation and sizes
can be found in Annexure D and more detail can be seen on Drawing 002802-BP- 7.
32
Table 11: Spillway Sizes
Storm Water 3
D1 Gabion overflow 20m 1:100 5.4 m /s 0.31m
Hard and Soft
Storm Water 3
D2 Side decanting 20m 1:100 8.95m /s 0.44m
Discard and Plant
3
D3 Process Water Side decanting 5m 1:100 1.0 m /s 0.26m
3
D4 Emergency Slurry Side decanting 2m 1:100 0.2m /s 0.16m
Storm Water 3
D5 Side decanting 40m 1:100 15.03m /s 0.39m
Discard and Plant
3
D6 Biofilter Side decanting 5m 1:100 1.58m /s 0.35m
3
PWb Pan Divided. Gabion overflow 20m 1:100 8.0m /s 0.41m
33
Cut-off vertical drains, deep trench drains (normally around the perimeter)
Layer subsurface drainage (permeable layer in a geotextile blanket)
Based upon the geotechnical investigation, the following measures are envisaged for the
dams:
Table 13: Subsurface Drainage Measures for Dams
1
Dam Envisaged Conditions Wall and Lining Sub surface Drainage Method
D6 Soft to Intermediate to hard, Earth, HDPE lining Blanket layer, shallow trench
groundwater and vertical cut-off drains
1
Refer to section 13 for lining designs
The subsurface drains discharge into a collection sump from where it should be pumped by
means of automated level control. These sumps can also be used for water quality
monitoring and can be an indication of possible lining leakage. The sizing of pumps and
automation are to be part of the detail design phase.
34
b) Process Water Dam (D3)
Capacity requirement of 15 000m3 as per information provided (Aurecon, Jun 2011).
The 1:50 year 24hr event over the surface area of the dam was added to the given
capacity. Freeboard added to this level and flood level for 1:100 year peak runoff
checked (overflow).
c) Emergency Slurry Dam (D4)
No capacity specified. It is an emergency facility linked to operational requirements.
The maximum reasonable volume for the available space was calculated.
d) Biofilter Dam (D6)
A detailed discussion on sewage treatment and the sizing of the dam can be found in
section 16.
e) Return Water Dams (D7, D8)
Capacity requirement of 230 000m3 each as per information provided (Aurecon, Jun
2011). The 1:50 year 24hr event over the surface area of the dam was added to the
given capacity. Freeboard added to this level and flood level for 1:100 year peak runoff
checked (overflow).
f) Natural Pan East (PE)
For the modelling done in section 9.1.1, a depth-volume relationship was calculated
from the available contours. The volume reflected is at the estimated overflow level.
g) Natural Pan West (PW)
For the modelling done in section 9.1.2, a depth-volume relationship was calculated
from the available contours. This relationship was adjusted to reflect the division of the
pan with a wall. The volume reflected is at the estimated overflow level for the divided
pan.
The calculations can be found in Annexure C and a summary in Table 14.
35
Table 14: Dam Dimensions and Volumes
1
Measured between insides of crest
2
Measured from invert to crest (inclusive of freeboard)
36
Table 15: Summary of Strength Test Results
1 1
Test Depth Sample Angle of Internal Friction (Phi) Cohesion (C)
Position m Preparation Degrees kPa
1
Angle of internal friction (Phi), Effective Strength
37
drainage beneath the dam to accommodate the high in-situ water table and to prevent
water seepage into the embankment.
The plots of Stability analysis for the inner wall are presented in Figure 14 and that of the
outer wall in
Figure 15.
Figure 14: Stability analysis for the inside slope of the dam wall
Figure 15: Stability analysis for the outside slope of the dam wall
38
Figure 15, the factors of safety against failure are 3.6 for the inside slope and 1.8 for the
outside slope. Both values are above the recommended minimum value of 1.5.
12.8.5 CAUTION
Cognisance should be taken of the fact that the in situ soils that were tested in the
laboratory are classified as Very Highly Corrosive, and concrete structure in contact with
these soils will need to be designed accordingly.
39
13. LINING DESIGNS
13.1 INTRODUCTION
A number of dams are proposed for the Belfast Project and they are listed in Table 16 with
regards to content (refer to Table 10 for more detailed operational requirements). Their
positions are shown on Figure 16.
Table 16: Dam Content
D1 Storm Water from Hard and Soft Keep empty, evaporate, release
Stockpile Are Could be dirty.
D6 Biofilter Dam downstream of a package Evaporate. Not suitable for release into clean water
sewage treatment plant system.
PW Divided pan with clean storm water Evaporate, infiltrate, over flow
Clean water system.
The lining systems will be specifically designed and installed to prevent contamination from
entering into the underlying groundwater and to facilitate the storage, handling, re-use or
disposal of the contained liquids.
The selection of the lining systems needs to take into account regulatory requirements, cost
considerations, availability of materials, functional requirements, lifespan in terms of
operating, chemical and climatic conditions, ease of installation and serviceability, i.e.
posing the least risk in terms of short to long term leakage.
Existing site conditions such as the geology and nature of the soils associated with the site,
the capacity and physical characteristics of the dams (e.g. magnitude of side slopes, depth
of contained liquids) and the nature of the contained liquids also need to be assessed in the
selection and design of the lining systems.
40
Figure 16: Dam Positions
41
13.2 RETURN WATER AND PROCESS WATER DAMS (D3, D7 AND D8)
The two proposed Return Water Dams (East and West, 230,000m3 each) are intended to
store process water to be re-used in the mining operations. The depth of water stored will
be approximately 7.5m with the dams maintained close to their full capacity for most of the
time.
It is envisaged that the process water will generally have a low pH value which is reported
could be as low as 2. Chemical results of water samples taken from other similar mines
indicate that elevated total dissolved solids (TDS), sulphates and manganese could be
expected (GCS, Jan 2011).
Employing the LC50 eco-toxicity criteria, i.e. the concentration at which a substance will kill
50% of aquatic animals tested, a liquid with a pH of less than 6 can be regarded as a
hazardous liquid and a storage dam or lagoon should be effectively lined so as to contain
the liquid in order to prevent environmental contamination. The anticipated low pH
characteristic will classify the liquid as a moderate to high-risk substance, and the proposed
liner design is accordingly based on the Department of Water Affairs Minimum
Requirements for the design of Hazardous Waste Lagoons (DWA, 2005), (DWAF-A2, Jul
2008). The diagram below indicates the design criteria set out in the Minimum
Requirements:
Figure 18: Hazardous Waste Lagoons: Minimum Requirements for Liner Design
Note: It may be possible to treat the mine water through a process of blending and/or pH
control and thus delist the liquid to a low-hazard classification which in turn may result in a
reduced acceptable design standard. For purposes of this report, a precautionary approach
has been adopted and a moderate-high hazard classification is assumed.
42
Taking the DWA Minimum Standards as the basis for the liner design, three options were
designed (Figure 19,
Figure 20 and
Figure 21). Subsurface drainage measures are not reflected on these figures.
Option A is proposed where there is sufficient and suitable clay material in the area.
For this project, there is uncertainty as to the quantity of clay available.
Option B proposes the replacement of clay with a geosynthetic clay (mineral) liner
(GCL), while still having a 300mm ballast layer on top of it to provide a confining
pressure on the GCL.
Option C excludes the 300mm ballast layer on top of the GCL as these dams will be
operated at operational level all the time. Sufficient pressure from water.
Figure 19: Alternative Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option A
2mm HDPE
GCL
Cuspated Drain (bonded geotextile on slopes)
1mm LLDPE (textures both sides on slopes)
Figure 20: Alternative Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option B
2mm HDPE
GCL
Cuspated Drain (bonded geotextile on slopes)
1mm LLDPE (textures both sides on slopes)
GCL
43
Figure 21: Proposed Lining for Moderate to High Risk Liquid Option C
2mm HDPE
GCL
The layers as proposed in the three options are discussed below (layers from formation
level):
b) A Base Preparation Layer free from particles that may cause mechanical damage to
the overlying liner.
c) Compacted Clay Layers (CCLs). This layer should serve as a protection layer to the
LLDPE liner (particle size that does not cause mechanical damage) and as a
preparation layer for the primary and secondary lining layers that follow. The
permeability (water-tightness) of the two CCL layers is not considered a critical
requirement in the context of the total lining design, and from a practical construction
perspective, CCLs will always have limitations in achieving permeability
requirements, irrespective of the average quality of the clay used.
d) A Geosynthetic Clay (mineral) Liner (GCL) consists of two layers of geotextiles with a
thin layer of bentonite powder or granules sandwiched between the geotextiles and
with the geotextiles needle-punched together to contain the bentonite. Normally, a
300mm ballast layer is placed on top of the GCL to provide a confining pressure to
the GCL. The PH of the polluted water is not as important as the Ca content where
bentonite is used. This is not considered a major concern based upon the available
information(GCS, Jan 2011).
e) The LLDPE geosynthetic secondary liner should be textured on both sides where
placed on the sloping embankments, and smooth on both sides where placed on the
basin floor. Full manufacturing and construction quality assurance should be
implemented.
44
f) The HDPE cuspated drain layer is a leakage collection layer and consists of a
bonded geotextile applied to both sides where used on the sloping embankments.
This layer should be drained by pipes to a collection sump for monitoring. Bigger
dams, especially where there is no alternative storage, can be divided into section
each with its own collection sump.
h) Geotextile protection layer protects against migration of particles, damage and can
act as a drainage layer.
i) The top ballast layer protects the integrity of the primary liner. It is recommended that
the ballast layer comprise of a 150mm layer of crushed stone aggregate on the
sloping sides. Consideration can be made to using an alternative ballast material for
the basin floor, such as motor car tyres. Consideration should be given regarding the
low pH of the contained liquid when deciding on a suitable ballast material. Should it
be required to periodically remove accumulated solids from the basin floor, a hyson-
cell or similar cellular layer could be considered. The infill material to the cellular
layer should take into account potential chemical attack from the low pH liquid.
45
Figure 22: Proposed Lining System for Storm water Dams
1.5mm HDPE
Protection Geotextile
Note: Additional subsurface drainage layers may be required where groundwater is expected. Placement
would be between Protection Geotextile and Dam Formation Level.
46
Figure 23: Proposed Lining System for Emergency Slurry Dam
1.5mm HDPE
Protection Geotextile
Note: Additional subsurface drainage layers may be required where groundwater is expected. Placement
would be between Protection Geotextile and Dam Formation Level.
1.5mm HDPE
Protection Geotextile
Note: Additional subsurface drainage layers may be required where groundwater is expected. Placement
would be between Protection Geotextile and Dam Formation Level.
47
13.8 INSTALLATION
The design of the geosynthetc layers (for all proposed dams) must incorporate proper
anchorage detailing for the prevention of slip and rupture failure on the side slopes. The
quality of the materials used in the lining layers as well as the quality of the construction
and installation of the lining layers is critical and the requirements of the accepted industry
standards and specifications as well as any special requirements of the regulatory
authorities should be strictly applied.
48
14. DISCARD DUMP AND STOCKPILE SEEPAGE PREVENTION
Stockpile / Discard
Protection Geotextile
Protection Geotextile
1.5mm HDPE
Note: Additional subsurface drainage layers may be required where groundwater is expected. Placement
would be between 1.5mm HDPE and In Situ Material.
Figure 27 indicates the lined areas (shaded orange) for collection of seepage before
contamination of groundwater. It includes the Discard Facility, Export Stockpile, Middlings
Stockpile, Emergency Stockpiles and Export and Discard Bin areas. Refer to Drawing
002802-BP- 1 for the exact location.
49
Figure 26 (Section 13.10) and sumps S1 and S5 refer. S1 serves the Discard Facility Area
and S5 the Middling and Export Stockpile Areas.
Figure 27: Lined Stockpile Areas (shaded orange)
50
15. LOW LEVEL STREAM CROSSING
The haul road crosses the Klein-Komatirivier northwest of the plant area (refer to Figure 28
for position). This position is close to and will replace an existing river crossing. The
Surface Water Assessment Report (Golder and Associates, 2009) presents a flood-line
modelling of this section of river before and after a proposed a low level structure consisting
of 5/2mx1.8m (barrels / width x height) pre-cast culverts (Figures 8 and 9 of the said report).
Figure 28: Position of Low Level Stream Crossing
51
can get blocked easily with debris from these size storms. The flood levels immediately
upstream of the structure were calculated as follows (refer to Annexure E for detailed
calculations):
Table 17: Low Level Crossing Flood Levels
1
Culvert Road Overflow Width 1:50 Level 1:100 Level
1
Barrels/widthxheight
From the above it can be seen that the flood levels for the 5/2.0mx1.8m is much higher than
the other two options. The reason for this is the confinement of flow through a narrow but
high opening.
The flood level is more sensitive to the number of barrels than road overflow width, as the
total deck thickness is estimated to be 500mm. This deck thickness is due to structural
strength requirements of the design haul vehicles. The deck thickness increases the
headwater depth at the inlet forcing more water through the culvert.
At the position of the proposed low level crossing, the 100m clear zone restriction from the
river is more critical than the 1:100 year flood-line level. The footprint of storm water dam
D1 is therefore well away from the flood line and any possible undermining.
52
Table 18: Proposed Low Level Structure
1
Average Through Velocity 2.1m/s 2.0m/s 1.96m/s 1.8m/s
1
.Note: The Average Through Velocity takes the headwater build-up into account as well, and is not the outlet
velocity! The outlet velocity is to be reduced by energy dissipation to pre-development velocities as discussed
in the section below.
53
16. SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT AND BIOFILTER DAM
54
Table 19: Evaporation Data Used In The Modelling
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Tot
Pan
Evaporation 189 169 163 122 106 88 93 129 175 195 185 200 1814
(mm)
Precipitation
138 87 71 43 12 6 4 7 25 72 125 124 714
(mm)
Net
Evaporation 51 82 92 79 94 82 89 122 150 123 60 76 1100
(mm)
The evaporation from the pond was modelled over a 4 year period using the average
evaporation data and a consistent flow of 63m3/d. It was determined that an evaporation
pond of 2.0ha will be adequate assuming an average depth of 1.5m. The results of the
evaporation modelling on the dam volume are given in Figure 29.
2000
1800
1600
PondVolume(m3)
1400
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
2011 2012 2013 2014
55
effluent is to be evaporated or irrigated, the General Limit effluent standard would be more
than sufficient to comply with the standards set by the Department of Water Affairs.
It is therefore recommended that a package plant based on the extended aeration activated
sludge process be used. The package plant should have facilities to store and possibly
digest sludge in order to minimise the maintenance required by the mine.
56
effluent would however have to be disinfected before irrigation takes place. The septic tank
would be sized for at least 24 hours hydraulic retention and it would be advisable to
construct 2 x 32 m3 parallel tanks so that one tank can be cleaned without shutting down
the entire tank. Either a 2 or 3 compartment septic tank would be required, and a manual
raked screen should be considered. Sludge would have to be removed from the septic tank
once a year.
57
17. CONCLUSIONS
It is possible, as demonstrated, to comply with the requirements of the regulations without
altering the plant layout dramatically. A slight rotation of the plant as well as a relaxation of
the building line requirements improved the storm water management system.
Further in investigations need to be carried out such as:
Surface geotechnical investigation where access was restricted.
Borrow area identification (e.g. source of clay)
Topographical survey
Structures (steel and concrete) in contact with the ground need to be designed to withstand
the corrosive soil conditions.
Lining requirements may be relaxed once more accurate data is available as to the
chemical composition and acidity of water in the area. The consumptions made are
conservative.
Minor adjustments to the layouts may be required once more detailed information is
available.
-oOo-
58
18. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alexander, W. (2002). The Standard Design Flood. Journal of the South African Institution
of Civil Engineering, 44(1) , 26-30.
Aurecon. (Jun 2011). Drawing 106233-CIV-GEN-101 Rev I. Pretoria: Aurecon.
DWA. (2005). Minimum Requirements for Waste Disposal by Landfill, Third Edition.
Pretoria: DWA.
DWAF-A2. (Jul 2008). Best Practice Guideline A2: Water Management for Mine Residue
Deposits. Pretoria: DWAF.
DWAF-A4. (Aug 2007). Best Practice Guideline A4: Pollution Control Dams. Pretoria:
DWAF.
DWAF-A5. (Jul 2008). Best Practice Guideline A5: Water Management for Surface Mines.
Pretoria: DWAF.
DWAF-G1. (Aug 2006). Best Practice Guideline G1: Storm Water Management. Pretoria:
DWAF.
GCS. (Jan 2011). Glisa Hydrological Study, Project 10-296.
Golder and Associates. (2009). Surface Water Assessment Report No 12433-9312-1.
SANCOLD. (Aug 1990). Safety Evaluation of Dams: Interim Guidelines on Freeboard for
Dams, Report No. 3. Pretoria: South African Committee on Large Dams.
SANRAL. (2006). Drainage Manual, 5th Edition. Pretoria: SANRAL.
Webber, N. (1985). Fluid Mechanics for Civil Engineers. Bristol, England: J.W. Arrowsmith.
Witwatersrand, U. o. (1972). Design Flood Detemination in South Africa. Hydrological
Research Unit.
WRC. (2008). Surface Water Resources of South Africa: WR2005, Report No. TT382/08.
Water Research Commission.
- oOo -
59
Annexure A:
SITE HYDROLOGY CALCULATIONS
CATCHMENT HYDROLOGY
Project Number: 002802
Project Title: Belfast Stormwater
Done by: CCLR
Date: 23 July 2011
Spreadsheet by RLR
Ref Catchment No PW-50 PW-100 PE-50 PE-100 C2-50 C3-50 C4-50 C5-50 D1-50 D1-100 D2-50 D2-100 D3-50 D3-100 D4-50 D4-100 D5-10 D5-50 D5-100 D6-50
1 Approx. Culvert km km
2 SUMMARY
3 Rational Method m/sec 7.959 11.806 8.650 12.830 7.917 0.915 8.730 12.130 4.485 5.396 6.474 8.947 0.841 1.035 0.154 0.190 4.521 10.136 15.034 1.286
4 SDF Method m/sec 9.461 12.183 10.249 13.198 8.981 1.062 9.903 13.356 4.206 5.416 6.236 8.385 0.317 0.408 0.058 0.075 3.971 9.075 11.686 0.485
5 Empirical Method m/sec 11.959 15.106 12.604 15.921 11.466 2.109 12.398 15.671 6.608 8.347 8.276 10.666 n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. 8.194 13.194 16.666 n.a.
Steps Empirical Method Calculations (no limit on area size - prefer larger areas)
5 Veld Type 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a 4&5a
6 Catchment Parameters (C ) 0.240 0.240 0.234 0.234 0.104 0.020 0.114 0.071 0.091 0.091 0.111 0.123 - - - - 0.069 0.069 0.069 -
7 Kovacs Region K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5 K5
9 Constant Value for (Kt) 0.950 1.200 0.950 1.200 0.950 0.950 0.950 0.950 0.950 1.200 0.950 1.200 0.950 1.200 0.950 1.200 0.590 0.950 1.200 0.950
10 Peak Flow (Midgley & Pitman) (Qt) m/sec 11.959 15.106 12.604 15.921 11.466 2.109 12.398 15.671 6.608 8.347 8.276 10.666 - - - - 8.194 13.194 16.666 -
11a Peak Flow (Qrmf Kovacs factor 1) 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100
11b Peak Flow (Qrmf Kovacs factor 2) 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500
11 Peak Flow (Kovacs) (Qrmf) m/sec 6.928 6.928 7.266 7.266 7.694 2.466 8.080 10.643 4.964 4.964 5.797 5.797 1.144 1.144 0.490 0.490 9.261 9.261 9.261 1.414
12 Qt/Qrmf ratios 1.726 2.180 1.735 2.191 1.490 0.855 1.535 1.472 1.331 1.682 1.428 1.840 - - - - 0.885 1.425 1.800 -
12 Peak Flow (Qt) m/sec 11.959 15.106 12.604 15.921 11.466 2.109 12.398 15.671 6.608 8.347 8.276 10.666 - - - - 8.194 13.194 16.666 -
Ref Catchment No D6-100 D7,8-50 D7,8-100 C10-50 C14-50 LL-2 LL-5 LL-10 LL-20 LL-50 LL-100 LL-200
1 Approx. Culvert km km
2 SUMMARY
3 Rational Method m/sec 1.583 4.372 5.382 5.397 2.370 21.611 29.906 38.614 50.632 75.959 105.691 130.120
4 SDF Method m/sec 0.624 1.648 2.122 6.164 2.812 2.906 17.272 31.069 46.954 71.002 91.426 113.224
5 Empirical Method m/sec n.a. n.a. n.a. 8.230 4.424 #N/A #N/A 44.748 51.574 72.052 91.013 91.013
Ground Flow Manning Lining Flow Wetted Wetted Hydraulic Flow Peak Freeb Drain
Traffic
Notes
w y x Type k V
Slope depth n n-k Width Area Perim. Radius, R Q Flow Straight Depth
(m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m2) (m) (m3/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m) (m)
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.34 0.032 0.156 7.03 2.040 7.144 0.286 4.787 2.347 0.102 0.441
dissipation rqd dissipation rqd dissipation rqd dissipation rqd dissipation rqd
Armorflex 140 Armorflex 140 Armorflex 140
Trapezoidal
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.45 0.032 0.174 7.71 2.873 7.859 0.366 7.950 2.767 0.136 0.588
C1-C30
Energy
None
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.57 0.032 0.188 8.39 3.783 8.573 0.441 11.866 11.806 3.137 0.170 0.735
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.68 0.032 0.200 9.07 4.769 9.288 0.513 16.552 3.471 0.203 0.881
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.79 0.032 0.210 9.75 5.832 10.003 0.583 22.031 3.778 0.237 1.028
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.29 0.032 0.145 6.71 1.674 6.808 0.246 3.557 2.125 0.086 0.372
Trapezoidal
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.38 0.032 0.163 7.29 2.341 7.410 0.316 5.878 2.511 0.114 0.495
C2-C5A
Energy
None
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.48 0.032 0.177 7.86 3.063 8.013 0.382 8.730 8.730 2.851 0.143 0.619
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.57 0.032 0.189 8.43 3.838 8.615 0.446 12.119 3.157 0.171 0.743
5.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.67 0.032 0.199 9.00 4.669 9.218 0.506 16.057 3.439 0.200 0.867
8.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.27 0.032 0.145 9.62 2.381 9.709 0.245 5.048 2.121 0.081 0.351
Trapezoidal
C5A-C5B
8.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.36 0.032 0.163 10.16 3.272 10.279 0.318 8.256 2.523 0.108 0.468
Energy
None
8.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.45 0.032 0.178 10.70 4.211 10.848 0.388 12.130 12.130 2.880 0.135 0.585
8.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.54 0.032 0.190 11.24 5.200 11.418 0.455 16.659 3.204 0.162 0.703
8.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.63 0.032 0.201 11.78 6.237 11.988 0.520 21.836 3.501 0.189 0.820
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.13 0.032 0.098 2.79 0.316 2.835 0.112 0.397 1.254 0.040 0.172
Grass Short
Trapezoidal
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.18 0.032 0.112 3.06 0.445 3.113 0.143 0.658 1.480 0.053 0.229
Energy
C3-C2
None
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.22 0.032 0.123 3.32 0.585 3.391 0.173 0.982 0.915 1.678 0.066 0.286
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.26 0.032 0.132 3.58 0.737 3.670 0.201 1.368 1.856 0.079 0.343
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.31 0.032 0.140 3.85 0.901 3.948 0.228 1.820 2.021 0.092 0.400
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.13 0.032 0.098 2.79 0.316 2.835 0.112 0.397 1.254 0.040 0.172
Armorflex 140
Trapezoidal
Alternative
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.18 0.032 0.112 3.06 0.445 3.113 0.143 0.658 1.480 0.053 0.229
Energy
C3-C2
None
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.22 0.032 0.123 3.32 0.585 3.391 0.173 0.982 0.915 1.678 0.066 0.286
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.26 0.032 0.132 3.58 0.737 3.670 0.201 1.368 1.856 0.079 0.343
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.31 0.032 0.140 3.85 0.901 3.948 0.228 1.820 2.021 0.092 0.400
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.10 0.032 0.087 2.62 0.237 2.650 0.089 0.257 1.083 0.031 0.134
Grass Short
Trapezoidal
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.14 0.032 0.100 2.82 0.330 2.866 0.115 0.423 1.282 0.041 0.178
C29-C6
None
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.17 0.032 0.110 3.03 0.430 3.083 0.140 0.627 0.627 1.457 0.051 0.223
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.21 0.032 0.119 3.23 0.538 3.300 0.163 0.868 1.615 0.062 0.267
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.030 0.24 0.032 0.127 3.44 0.652 3.516 0.185 1.147 1.760 0.072 0.312
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.008 0.31 0.030 0.114 3.86 0.909 3.962 0.229 0.983 1.082 0.074 0.384
Armorflex 140
Trapezoidal
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.008 0.41 0.030 0.126 4.48 1.340 4.615 0.290 1.696 1.266 0.099 0.513
C6-D5
None
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.008 0.52 0.030 0.135 5.10 1.835 5.269 0.348 2.623 2.623 1.429 0.124 0.641
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.008 0.62 0.030 0.143 5.72 2.395 5.923 0.404 3.780 1.578 0.149 0.770
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.008 0.72 0.030 0.150 6.34 3.018 6.577 0.459 5.184 1.718 0.175 0.899
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.008 0.23 0.015 0.004 2.91 0.561 3.022 0.186 1.055 1.880 0.069 0.297
pation rqd
pezoidal
rnative)
oncrete
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.008 0.30 0.015 0.004 3.22 0.795 3.362 0.236 1.754 2.207 0.091 0.396
nergy
C6-D5
None
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.008 0.38 0.015 0.004 3.52 1.052 3.703 0.284 2.623 2.623 2.494 0.114 0.495
Ground Flow Manning Lining Flow Wetted Wetted Hydraulic Flow Peak Freeb Drain
Traffic
Notes
w y x Type k V
Slope depth n n-k Width Area Perim. Radius, R Q Flow Straight Depth
(m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m2) (m) (m3/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m) (m)
En
05) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0140-0.005) (0.0320-0.200) (0.014
N
Trap
dissip
C
Co
Alte
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.008 0.46 0.015 0.004 3.83 1.331 4.043 0.329 3.666 2.753 0.137 0.594
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.008 0.53 0.015 0.004 4.13 1.635 4.384 0.373 4.889 2.991 0.160 0.693
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.016 0.15 0.032 0.103 2.88 0.357 2.926 0.122 0.347 0.972 0.039 0.185
Grass Short
Trapezoidal
C18-C16
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.016 0.20 0.032 0.117 3.17 0.505 3.234 0.156 0.578 1.146 0.052 0.248
None
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.016 0.24 0.032 0.128 3.46 0.666 3.543 0.188 0.865 0.865 1.298 0.066 0.310
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.016 0.29 0.032 0.138 3.76 0.843 3.851 0.219 1.209 1.435 0.080 0.372
2.00 3.00 3.00 0.016 0.34 0.032 0.146 4.05 1.033 4.160 0.248 1.613 1.562 0.093 0.435
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.05 0.015 0.004 1.96 0.071 1.965 0.036 0.066 0.922 0.014 0.062
Middlings-C23
Trapezoidal
Concrete
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.06 0.015 0.004 2.28 0.105 2.286 0.046 0.113 1.081 0.019 0.083
Yes
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.08 0.015 0.004 2.60 0.144 2.608 0.055 0.176 0.176 1.223 0.024 0.104
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.10 0.015 0.004 2.92 0.188 2.930 0.064 0.254 1.352 0.029 0.125
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.11 0.015 0.004 3.24 0.237 3.251 0.073 0.350 1.473 0.034 0.146
0.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.09 0.015 0.004 0.92 0.042 0.937 0.045 0.045 1.068 0.028 0.119
Middlings-C23 Middlings-C23
Alternative
Concrete
0.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.12 0.015 0.004 1.23 0.075 1.249 0.060 0.097 1.293 0.037 0.159
V-drain
Yes
0.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.15 0.015 0.004 1.53 0.117 1.562 0.075 0.176 0.176 1.501 0.046 0.199
0.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.18 0.015 0.004 1.84 0.169 1.874 0.090 0.286 1.695 0.055 0.239
0.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.21 0.015 0.004 2.14 0.230 2.186 0.105 0.432 1.878 0.064 0.279
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.05 0.015 0.004 1.53 0.067 1.539 0.043 0.070 1.042 0.016 0.069
Trapezoidal
Alternative
Concrete
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.07 0.015 0.004 1.70 0.095 1.719 0.055 0.117 1.226 0.021 0.092
Yes
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.09 0.015 0.004 1.88 0.127 1.899 0.067 0.176 0.176 1.389 0.026 0.115
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.11 0.015 0.004 2.06 0.162 2.078 0.078 0.248 1.536 0.032 0.137
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.016 0.12 0.015 0.004 2.23 0.199 2.258 0.088 0.334 1.672 0.037 0.160
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.15 0.015 0.004 1.60 0.195 1.672 0.117 0.394 2.016 0.045 0.195
dissipation rqd
Trapezoidal
Concrete
C23-P25
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.20 0.015 0.004 1.80 0.281 1.896 0.148 0.662 2.359 0.060 0.260
Energy
Yes
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.25 0.015 0.004 2.00 0.376 2.120 0.177 1.000 1.000 2.661 0.075 0.326
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.30 0.015 0.004 2.20 0.481 2.344 0.205 1.412 2.934 0.090 0.391
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.35 0.015 0.004 2.40 0.596 2.568 0.232 1.900 3.186 0.105 0.456
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.005 0.06 0.015 0.004 2.15 0.090 2.154 0.042 0.051 0.569 0.015 0.072
Trapezoidal
Emer-C24
Concrete
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.005 0.08 0.015 0.004 2.53 0.135 2.538 0.053 0.090 0.667 0.020 0.096
Yes
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.005 0.10 0.015 0.004 2.91 0.187 2.923 0.064 0.141 0.141 0.755 0.025 0.121
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.005 0.11 0.015 0.004 3.30 0.247 3.307 0.075 0.206 0.835 0.030 0.145
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.005 0.13 0.015 0.004 3.68 0.313 3.692 0.085 0.285 0.910 0.035 0.169
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.19 0.015 0.004 1.77 0.268 1.865 0.144 0.621 2.315 0.058 0.251
dissipation rqd
Trapezoidal
Concrete
P25-C11
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.26 0.015 0.004 2.03 0.391 2.153 0.182 1.057 2.703 0.077 0.335
Energy
None
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.32 0.015 0.004 2.29 0.530 2.441 0.217 1.615 1.615 3.046 0.097 0.419
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.39 0.015 0.004 2.55 0.686 2.730 0.251 2.303 3.358 0.116 0.503
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.016 0.45 0.015 0.004 2.80 0.858 3.018 0.284 3.131 3.647 0.135 0.587
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.05 0.015 0.004 2.01 0.076 2.011 0.038 0.072 0.946 0.015 0.065
al
Ground Flow Manning Lining Flow Wetted Wetted Hydraulic Flow Peak Freeb Drain
Traffic
Notes
w y x Type k V
Slope depth n n-k Width Area Perim. Radius, R Q Flow Straight Depth
(m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m2) (m) (m3/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m) (m)
Trapezoida
Yes
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.08 0.015 0.004 2.68 0.154 2.685 0.057 0.193 0.193 1.255 0.025 0.109
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.10 0.015 0.004 3.01 0.202 3.022 0.067 0.280 1.388 0.030 0.131
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.016 0.12 0.015 0.004 3.35 0.255 3.359 0.076 0.386 1.512 0.035 0.153
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.014 0.09 0.015 0.004 2.84 0.176 2.847 0.062 0.218 1.235 0.028 0.119
Trapezoidal
Stack-C13
Concrete
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.014 0.12 0.015 0.004 3.45 0.273 3.463 0.079 0.395 1.449 0.037 0.159
Yes
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.014 0.15 0.015 0.004 4.06 0.388 4.078 0.095 0.637 0.637 1.643 0.046 0.199
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.014 0.18 0.015 0.004 4.68 0.522 4.694 0.111 0.951 1.823 0.055 0.239
1.00 10.00 10.00 0.014 0.21 0.015 0.004 5.29 0.674 5.310 0.127 1.343 1.993 0.064 0.279
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.014 0.14 0.015 0.004 1.57 0.183 1.637 0.112 0.335 1.831 0.043 0.185
Concrete
C13-C12
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.014 0.19 0.015 0.004 1.76 0.262 1.850 0.142 0.563 2.145 0.057 0.247
Energy
None
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.014 0.24 0.015 0.004 1.95 0.350 2.062 0.170 0.848 0.848 2.420 0.071 0.309
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.014 0.29 0.015 0.004 2.14 0.448 2.275 0.197 1.194 2.668 0.086 0.371
1.00 2.00 2.00 0.014 0.33 0.015 0.004 2.33 0.554 2.487 0.223 1.605 2.898 0.100 0.432
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.014 0.12 0.015 0.004 2.22 0.197 2.247 0.088 0.307 1.557 0.037 0.159
Trapezoidal
Alternative
Concrete
C13-C12
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.014 0.16 0.015 0.004 2.63 0.296 2.663 0.111 0.540 1.823 0.049 0.212
Energy
Yes
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.014 0.20 0.015 0.004 3.04 0.411 3.078 0.134 0.848 0.848 2.062 0.061 0.265
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.014 0.24 0.015 0.004 3.45 0.544 3.494 0.156 1.240 2.282 0.073 0.318
1.00 5.00 5.00 0.014 0.29 0.015 0.004 3.85 0.692 3.909 0.177 1.722 2.487 0.086 0.371
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.030 0.21 0.015 0.004 2.82 0.495 2.918 0.170 1.749 3.537 0.062 0.267
C11,12-C9-D5
Trapezoidal
Concrete
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.030 0.27 0.015 0.004 3.09 0.697 3.224 0.216 2.899 4.159 0.082 0.356
Energy
None
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.030 0.34 0.015 0.004 3.37 0.918 3.529 0.260 4.319 4.309 4.705 0.103 0.445
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.030 0.41 0.015 0.004 3.64 1.158 3.835 0.302 6.015 5.196 0.123 0.534
2.00 2.00 2.00 0.030 0.48 0.015 0.004 3.92 1.416 4.141 0.342 7.996 5.646 0.144 0.622
5.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.60 0.014 0.002 8.01 3.902 8.659 0.451 2.749 0.705 0.125 0.725
D5 STILLING
Trapezoidal
Min. Size
Concrete
Cleaning
5.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.80 0.014 0.002 9.01 5.603 9.879 0.567 4.603 0.821 0.167 0.967
5.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.00 0.014 0.002 10.01 7.505 11.099 0.676 6.932 6.932 0.924 0.209 1.209
5.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.20 0.014 0.002 11.01 9.607 12.319 0.780 9.759 1.016 0.251 1.451
5.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.40 0.014 0.001 12.01 11.910 13.539 0.880 13.110 1.101 0.292 1.692
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.60 0.032 0.181 6.01 2.702 6.659 0.406 0.607 0.225 0.121 0.721
12 STILLING P27 STILLING
Trapezoidal
Min. Size
Concrete
Cleaning
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.80 0.032 0.199 7.01 4.003 7.879 0.508 1.045 0.261 0.161 0.961
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.00 0.032 0.213 8.01 5.505 9.099 0.605 1.615 1.615 0.293 0.201 1.201
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.20 0.032 0.224 9.01 7.207 10.319 0.698 2.327 0.323 0.241 1.441
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.40 0.032 0.234 10.01 9.110 11.539 0.789 3.191 0.350 0.281 1.681
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.60 0.032 0.181 6.01 2.702 6.659 0.406 0.319 0.118 0.120 0.720
Trapezoidal
Min. Size
Concrete
Cleaning
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 0.80 0.032 0.199 7.01 4.003 7.879 0.508 0.549 0.137 0.160 0.960
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.00 0.032 0.213 8.01 5.505 9.099 0.605 0.848 0.848 0.154 0.200 1.200
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.20 0.032 0.224 9.01 7.207 10.319 0.698 1.222 0.170 0.240 1.440
Ground Flow Manning Lining Flow Wetted Wetted Hydraulic Flow Peak Freeb Drain
Traffic
Notes
w y x Type k V
Slope depth n n-k Width Area Perim. Radius, R Q Flow Straight Depth
(m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m) (m2) (m) (m3/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m) (m)
C1
(0.
3.00 0.01 5.00 0.000 1.40 0.032 0.234 10.01 9.110 11.539 0.789 1.677 0.184 0.280 1.680
1785.516 1785.516
1785.544
1786.000
NaturalPanWest
1785.544
1786.000 122000.000 244000.000
Undivided
1787.5
0.000 244000.000 0.000 122000.000
1787.204 1787.204
Offset 1787.0 0 10800 40800 129600 244000 Volume
0.0 43200.0 76800.0 100800.0 128000.0 Area
1786.5 1,784 1,785 1,785 1,786 1,787 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1786.0 0 10800 40800 129600 244000 Volume
Level(m)
50
100
150
200
250
300
#REF!
Thousands
Volume(m3)
1788.729 1788.729
1788.763
1786.000
1788.763
1786.000
NaturalPanWest
138600.000 277200.000
Divided
1790.0
0.000 277200.000 0.000 138600.000
1787.207 1787.207
Offset 1789.0 0 5400 20400 64800 277200 Volume
0.0 21600.0 38400.0 50400.0 91200.0 Area
1788.0 1,784 1,785 1,785 1,786 1,789 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
0 5400 20400 64800 277200 Volume
Level(m)
1787.0
vol 33116.3
Lookup Lev1786.0 1785.286
Lookup Area 41836.828 Overflow
1785.0 WallLevel
Area 62528.0
Lookup
L k L Lev 1786.892
1786 892 1:100NoInfiltration
Lookup vol 1784.0 127936.941
1:50NoInfiltration
1783.0
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
Thousands
Volume(m3)
1776.5
0.000 224600.000
Area 39457.0 N
NaturalOverflow
l O fl
1773.5
Lookup Lev 1773.586 1:100NoInfiltration(Wall)
Lookup vol 1773.0 12885.347
1:50NoInfiltration(Wall)
1772.5
100
150
200
250
0
50
#REF!
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1762.296
1761.982
1762.296
1761.982 Dam1
1767.0
1763.096 1763.096
0.000 52416.000
Offset 1766.0 0 11968 29184 40000 52416 Volume
0.0 7296.0 10304.0 12000.0 13824.0 Area
1765.0 1,760 1,762 1,764 1,765 1,766 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1764.0 0 11968 29184 40000 52416 Volume
Level(m)
10
20
30
40
50
60
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1770.465
1770.025
1770.465
1770.025
Dam2
1775.0
1771.265 1771.265
0.000 69936.000
Offset 1774.0 0 16848 39904 54000 69936 Volume
0.0 9976.0 13464.0 15400.0 17464.0 Area
1773.0 1,768 1,770 1,772 1,773 1,774 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1772.0 0 16848 39904 54000 69936 Volume
Level(m)
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1770.802
1770.539
1770.802
1770.539
Dam3
1775.0
1771.602 1771.602
0.000 52416.000
Offset 1774.0 0 11968 29184 40000 52416 Volume
0.0 7296.0 10304.0 12000.0 13824.0 Area
1773.0 1,768 1,770 1,772 1,773 1,774 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1772.0 0 11968 29184 40000 52416 Volume
Level(m)
10
20
30
40
50
60
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1759.671
1759.514
1759.671
1759.514
Dam4
1761.5
1760.471 1760.471
0.000 14076.000
Offset 1761.0 0 3108 5225 7744 14076 Volume
0.0 3872.0 4692.0 5568.0 7488.0 Area
1760.5 1,758 1,759 1,760 1,760 1,761 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1760.0 0 3108 5225 7744 14076 Volume
Level(m)
10
12
14
16
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1761.054
1760.662
1761.054
1760.662
Dam5
1766.0
1761.854 1761.854
0.000 96000.000
Offset 1764.0 0 8448 21504 30000 96000 Volume
0.0 5376.0 8064.0 9600.0 19200.0 Area
1762.0 1,754 1,756 1,758 1,759 1,764 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
0 8448 21504 30000 96000 Volume
1760.0
Level(m)
vol 2000.0
Lookup Lev1758.0 1754.473
Lookup Area 1272.727
1756.0 Spillway(1:50)
Area 2000.0
Lookup Lev 1754.744
Lookup vol 1754.0 3142.857
DamWall
1:100
1752.0
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1756.745
1756.482
1756.745
1756.482
Dam6
1762.0
1757.545 1757.545
0.000 161376.000
Offset 1761.0 0 43808 97344 128000 161376 Volume
0.0 24336.0 29584.0 32400.0 35344.0 Area
1760.0 1,755 1,757 1,759 1,760 1,761 Level
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
1759.0 0 43808 97344 128000 161376 Volume
Level(m)
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
Thousands
Volume(m3)
overflow
1772.826
1772.563
1772.826
1772.563
Dam7,8
1778.0
1774.326 1774.326
0.000 465108.000
Offset 1776.0 0 70917 170346 300879 465108 Volume
0.0 28391.0 38759.0 50279.0 62951.0 Area
1,765 1,768 1,771 1,774 1,777 Level
1774.0
1 2 3 4 5 Ref
0 70917 170346 300879 465108 Volume
1772.0
Level(m)
vol 2000.0
Lookup Lev 1770.0 1765.085
Lookup Area 800.682
1768.0 Spillway(1:50)
Area 2000.0
Lookup Lev 1765.211
DamWall
Lookup vol 1766.0 4995.738
1:100
1764.0
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
Thousands
Volume(m3)
Catchment No. PWa-100 PWb-100 D1-100 D2-100 D3-100 D4-100 D5-100 D6-100 D7,8-100 PE50 C3-50 C4-50 C5-50 D5-50 D5-10
Position C1 C1 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7,8 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7
Road n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. n.a. Maint. Maint. Haul Haul Haul Haul
Note Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Spillway Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert
Sub area m2 480,000 480,000 246,400 336,000 13,081 2,400 857,600 20,000 68,000 528,000 528,000 652,800 1,132,800 44,000 160,000
Q (m3/s) m3/s 11.81 7.96 5.40 8.95 1.04 0.19 15.03 1.58 5.38 7.92 0.91 8.73 12.13 0.63 1.41
Hmax water m 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 0.50 1.08 0.90 0.90 1.20 0.90 0.90
Pipe Culverts
D (diameter.) m 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.600
H/Dmax Pipes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
So (%) 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Barrels No #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 18 7 3 10 11 2 4
H/D max #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.56 1.20 1.20 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.20
Q/barrel m3/s #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.31 1.16 0.42 0.88 1.16 0.42 0.42
Actual Hw m #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.49 1.06 0.56 0.89 1.05 0.57 0.60
Actual H/D #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.54 1.18 0.93 0.99 1.16 0.95 1.00
Hmax>D #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! OK OK OK OK OK OK OK
Throat Velocity m/s #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.47 1.78 1.08 1.37 1.73 1.11 1.24
Box Culverts
B (width) m 30.000 20.000 20.000 20.000 5.000 2.000 40.000 5.000 20.000 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.900
D (depth) m 0.400 0.400 0.400 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.900 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.600
H/Dmax Boxes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Cb 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Ch 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60
Barrels No 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 2 8 8 1 2
H/D max 1.20 1.20 1.20 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 0.83 1.20 1.20 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.20
Q/barrel m3/s 15.62 10.42 10.42 10.85 2.71 1.08 21.70 2.71 10.85 1.58 0.86 1.18 1.58 0.86 0.86
Actual Hw m 0.40 0.41 0.31 0.44 0.26 0.16 0.39 0.35 0.31 0.97 0.48 0.86 1.06 0.59 0.64
Actual H/D 1.01 1.02 0.78 0.73 0.44 0.26 0.65 0.58 0.52 1.08 0.80 0.95 1.18 0.98 1.06
Hmax>D OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK
Throat Velocity m/s 0.97 0.98 0.86 1.02 0.79 0.61 0.96 0.91 0.86 1.51 1.06 1.42 1.58 1.18 1.22
Catchment No. D5-10 D5-50 C10-50 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 C14-50 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10
Position C8 C9 C10 C11 C12 C13 C14 C15 C16 C17 C18 C19 C20 C21 C22
Road Haul Access Access Berm Berm Conc. Access Maint. Maint. Maint. Access Access Haul Maint. Haul
Note Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert Culvert
Sub area m2 67,200 302,640 388,800 183,760 96,480 72,480 144,000 15,360 98,400 79,200 12,000 67,200 14,400 38,400 6,720
Q (m3/s) m3/s 0.59 4.31 5.40 1.61 0.85 0.64 2.37 0.13 0.86 0.70 0.11 0.59 0.13 0.34 0.06
Hmax water m 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Pipe Culverts
D (diameter.) m 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600
H/Dmax Pipes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
So (%) 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Barrels No 2 5 7 4 3 2 6 1 3 2 1 2 1 1 1
H/D max 1.20 1.00 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Q/barrel m3/s 0.42 0.88 0.88 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42 0.42
Actual Hw m 0.55 0.89 0.82 0.65 0.54 0.57 0.64 0.36 0.54 0.60 0.32 0.55 0.35 0.59 0.24
Actual H/D 0.92 0.99 0.92 1.08 0.90 0.95 1.07 0.61 0.90 1.00 0.53 0.92 0.59 0.98 0.39
Hmax>D OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK
Throat Velocity m/s 1.04 1.35 1.21 1.43 1.00 1.13 1.40 0.48 1.02 1.23 0.37 1.04 0.45 1.19 0.21
Box Culverts
B (width) m 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.900 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.600
D (depth) m 0.600 0.900 0.900 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600
H/Dmax Boxes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Cb 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Ch 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60
Barrels No 1 4 5 2 1 2 3 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1
H/D max 1.20 1.00 1.00 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Q/barrel m3/s 0.86 1.18 1.18 0.86 0.86 0.57 0.86 0.57 0.86 0.86 0.57 0.86 0.86 0.57 0.57
Actual Hw m 0.57 0.85 0.85 0.70 0.71 0.49 0.69 0.28 0.46 0.63 0.24 0.57 0.20 0.51 0.16
Actual H/D 0.95 0.94 0.94 1.17 1.18 0.82 1.15 0.46 0.77 1.06 0.39 0.95 0.34 0.85 0.27
Hmax>D OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK OK
Throat Velocity m/s 1.16 1.41 1.41 1.28 1.33 1.08 1.27 0.81 1.04 1.22 0.74 1.16 0.69 1.10 0.61
Catchment No. D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 D5-10 C10-50
Position C23 C29 P24 P24Emer P25 P26 P27 P28
Road Conc. Haul
Calculated peak runoff for drain sizing!
Note Culvert Culvert
Sub area m2 20,000 9,600 134,400 16,000 146,400 22,000 183,760 336,000
Q (m3/s) m3/s 0.18 0.08 1.18 0.14 1.29 0.19 1.61 4.66
Hmax water m 0.90 0.90
Pipe Culverts
D (diameter.) m 0.600 0.900 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
H/Dmax Pipes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
So (%) 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Barrels No 1 1 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
H/D max 1.20 1.00 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Q/barrel m3/s 0.42 0.88 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Actual Hw m 0.42 0.25 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Actual H/D 0.70 0.28 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Hmax>D OK OK #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Throat Velocity m/s 0.62 0.13 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Box Culverts
B (width) m 0.900 0.900 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000
D (depth) m 0.600 0.900 0.600
H/Dmax Boxes 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
Cb 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Ch 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.60
Barrels No 1 1 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
H/D max 1.20 1.00 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.00
Q/barrel m3/s 0.86 1.18 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! 0.00
Actual Hw m 0.25 0.16 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Actual H/D 0.42 0.17 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Hmax>D OK OK #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Throat Velocity m/s 0.77 0.60 #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0! #DIV/0!
Throat Velocity m/s 1.76 1.92 2.09 2.30 2.24 2.18 LL5
1761.00
Broad Crested Weir LL10
Height above Culvert Soffit m 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 0.600 LL20
Road Length m 32.0 32.0 32.0 32.0 32.0 32.0 LL50
1760.50
H (above weir) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.40 0.77 LL100
Q weir m3/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 13.84 37.04
d (critical) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.27 0.52
v (critical) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.62 2.25 1760.00
Throat Velocity m/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.08 1.50
Total Volume
Box Culverts m3/s 22.97 29.91 38.64 50.85 62.74 69.18 1759.50
Weir m3/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 13.84 37.04
0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00 50.00 60.00 70.00 80.00 90.00
Total Volume m3/s 22.97 29.91 38.64 50.85 76.58 106.22
Throat Velocity m/s 1.35 1.50 1.63 1.78 2.04 2.06 LL5
Broad Crested Weir LL10
1760.50 LL20
Height above Culvert Soffit m 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500
Road Length m 39.0 39.0 39.0 39.0 39.0 39.0 LL50
H (above weir) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.25 LL100
Q weir m3/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 8.44
d (critical) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.17 1760.00
v (critical) m 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.29
Throat Velocity m/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.86
Total Volume
Box Culverts m3/s 21.86 29.91 38.81 50.66 75.96 97.34 1759.50
Weir m3/s 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 8.44
0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00 50.00 60.00 70.00 80.00
Total Volume m3/s 21.86 29.91 38.81 50.66 75.96 105.78
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Annexure G:
GEOTECHNICAL REPORT
Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd EXXARO NBC Coal
GEOTECHNICAL REPORT
1. INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 2
2. AVAILABLE INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 2
3. SITE LOCATION................................................................................................................ 2
3.1. Topography and Drainage ......................................................................................... 5
3.2. Vegetation, Landuse and Existing Infrastructure ................................................. 5
3.3. Access ........................................................................................................................... 5
4. GEOLOGY .......................................................................................................................... 5
5. CLIMATE ............................................................................................................................ 6
6. FIELDWORK ...................................................................................................................... 6
6.1. Trial Pits ........................................................................................................................ 7
6.2. DCP Tests ..................................................................................................................... 9
7. LABORATORY TESTING............................................................................................... 10
8. GENERAL ASSESSMENT OF THE DAM AND DISCARD SITES ............................ 12
8.1. Soil and Rock Conditions West Dam ................................................................. 12
8.1.1. Colluvial Soils ....................................................................................................... 12
8.1.2. Pedogenic Soils - Ferricrete ............................................................................... 13
8.1.3. Alluvial Soils.......................................................................................................... 13
8.2. Soil and Rock Conditions East Dam .................................................................. 13
8.2.1. Colluvial Soils ....................................................................................................... 13
8.2.2. Pedogenic Soils - Ferricrete ............................................................................... 13
8.3. Soil and Rock Conditions Discard Area ............................................................ 14
8.3.1. Colluvial Soils ....................................................................................................... 14
8.3.2. Pedogenic Soils - Ferricrete ............................................................................... 14
8.3.3. Residual Sandstone Soils................................................................................... 14
8.4. Groundwater .............................................................................................................. 14
8.5. Expansive, Collapsible and Dispersive soils ....................................................... 14
9. GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT ................................................................................. 15
9.1. Foundations ............................................................................................................... 15
9.2. Clay Core .................................................................................................................... 15
9.3. Embankment Material ............................................................................................... 15
9.4. Ease of Excavation ................................................................................................... 16
10. CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................... 16
11. REFERENCES ................................................................................................................. 16
APPENDIX A: TRIAL PIT LOGS ....................................................................................................... 17
APPENDIX B: DYNAMIC CONE PENETROMETER TESTS ......................................................... 18
APPENDIX C: TRIAL PIT PHOTOGRAPHS .................................................................................... 19
APPENDIX D: LABORATORY TEST RESULTS............................................................................. 20
W:\2812 - Belfast Mine Leachate Dams Geotech (CC)\04 Documents and Reports\J&G Reports\Belfast Mine Dams - Final Report.docx
1 July 2011
Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd EXXARO NBC Coal
GEOTECHNICAL REPORT
1. INTRODUCTION
This report presents the results of a geotechnical investigation undertaken for the preliminary
design of two lined earthfill storage dams at a proposed mine infrastructure site located near
eMakhazeni (Belfast) in Mpumulanga. The dams will be required to store water pumped from the
open cast mine and other contaminated runoff from the mine and each dam will have a storage
capacity of approximately 230 000m3.
The investigation included an initial assessment of the ground conditions at the proposed discard
site.
The field investigation was carried out between the 3rd and 7 th of June 2011 and entailed the
following:
The interpretation of the overall subsurface conditions across the site is inferred, using professional
judgment, from the interpolation and extrapolation of point information assimilated from the test
positions. Given the relatively limited number of investigation points and the shallow excavation
depths obtained using the available excavation methods, it is recommended that further
investigations are undertaken for detailed design purposes.
2. AVAILABLE INFORMATION
The following information was available at the time of the site visit:
A directive that no mechanical excavation of trial pits may take place within the designated wetland
areas was received from the client.
Jeffares & Greens Engineering Geologist was accompanied during the field investigations by Mrs
Millicent Mkhwanazi from Exxaro.
3. SITE LOCATION
The proposed mine infrastructure site is located approximately 18 km south west of Belfast (by
road). The proposed storage dams are located on the northern and southern side of a gentle
sloping valley formed by a stream which runs in a rough east to west direction through the site. The
Locality Plans (Figures 1a and 1b) and a Site Layout Plan showing the position of the dams and
the discard area are included below and overleaf.
The proposed footprint of the West Dam is located approximately 130 m south of the stream
channel and the land slopes in a gentle northerly direction. The topography over the dam
footprint ranges from a gently convex slope in the northern section of the footprint to a concave
slope over the lower southern section. Poor drainage conditions were noted in many areas of
the site. The northern section of the footprint indicated in Figure 3b appears to be located
within the permanent zone of a wetland and standing water was observed at shallow depth
below ground level in this area. Ground water seepage was also noted in the south western
corner of the site.
The East Dam is located approximately 180 m north of the stream channel on elevated ground
that slopes in a very gentle southerly direction. There are no drainage features on the site
itself. However the flatter central section of the dam footprint is poorly drained and slight
groundwater seepage was observed in TP19 excavated in this area.
The proposed Discard Area slopes in a general north easterly direction towards the stream.
The south western boundary is located near the crest of a gentle ridge while the south north
eastern section appears to overly a wetland formed by a drainage line running in a north
easterly direction towards the stream.
The site is currently used for grazing animals and a section of the Discard Area is occupied by
ploughed fields.
There is no existing infrastructure at the proposed dam sites. A number of fences traverse the
Discard Area.
Old farmstead buildings occur to the east of the West Dam and graves were noted in this area.
Piles of rocks were noted in the northern section of the East Dam site and the presence of
graves should be investigated at this site.
Distinct piles of stones occur to the west of the drainage line on the western side of the East
Dam and this area appears to be an old graveyard.
3.3. Access
The site is accessed via the Eesterlingsfontein road off the N4. Access to the West Dam and
the Discard Area is obtained via tracks directly off the Eesterlingsfontein Road, as indicated in
Figure 2. Access to the East Dam site is via various gravel roads and farm tracks from the
north, as indicated in Figure 2. Sections of this access route will be difficult to traverse during
the wet summer season and the route will need to be upgraded for construction vehicles.
4. GEOLOGY
The 1:250 000 scale Geological Maps of the study area (2528 PRETORIA and 2530 BARBERTON)
indicate that the two proposed storage dams are underlain by rock units of the Dwyka Group of the
Karoo Supergroup. The Dwyka Group typically comprises diamictite, also known as tillite. However
the group contains various rock types including the stratified diamictite facies containing mudrock,
2812 5 July 2011
Belfast Mine Dams
Geotechnical Report Final
Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd EXXARO NBC Coal
sandstone and conglomerate beds, the conglomerate facies and the sandstone facies consisting of
fine- to medium- to coarse-grained sandstones (Johnson, et. al. 2006).
The proposed Discard Area is underlain by sedimentary rock units of the Vryheid Formation of the
Ecca Group which also forms part of the Karoo Supergroup. The Vryheid Formation comprises
quartzitic sandstone, pebbly and gritty sandstone, shale and coal measures.
Pv
(Extracted from the 1:250 000 scale Geological Maps 2528 PRETORIA and 2530 BARBERTON
published by the Council for Geoscience)
5. CLIMATE
The climatic regime plays a fundamental role in the development of a soil profile. Weinert (1964),
through his studies of weathering of basic igneous rocks, demonstrated that mechanical
disintegration is the predominant mode of rock weathering in areas where his climatic N-value is
greater than 5, while chemical decomposition predominates where the N-value is less than 5.
Weinerts climatic N-value for the Belfast area is approximately 1,7. This implies that chemical
decomposition is the dominant mode of weathering in the study area.
6. FIELDWORK
The fieldwork was undertaken on the 3 rd , 6th and 7 th of June 2011, during the drier winter season.
The approximate positions of the trial pits are shown on the Site Plans, Figures 3a to 3c overleaf.
The test positions were recorded using a Garmin e-trex hand-held GPS.
All depths provided were measured from existing ground level at each test position.
TP1 to TP10 were excavated by hand auger at the West Dam site to depths of between 0,20
and 1,05 m. TBL access was not permitted at the West Dam site as the site falls within the
area designated as a wetland on the wetland map referenced in Section 2.
175m
162m
313m
The trial pit profiles are attached in Appendix A and photographs of the soil profiles are
provided in Appendix C.
The DCP apparatus consisted of a 10 kg weight falling from a drop height of 450 mm onto a
string of rods with a 25 mm diameter end-cone with a 60 degree apex angle.
The DCP tests were advanced to depths of between 0,12 and 1,90 m below existing ground
level. The DCP tests were terminated when the blow count exceeded approximately 50 blows
per 300 mm, or refusal. The results have been used to derive, empirically, Estimated Allowable
Safe Bearing Pressures (EASBP) for the soils. A non-cohesive soil profile has been assumed
for the purposes of interpreting the DCP results as a predominantly sandy soil profile was
encountered. The estimation of the EASBPs is based on Terzaghis chart for allowable
bearing pressures for less than 25 mm of settlement.
2812 9 July 2011
Belfast Mine Dams
Geotechnical Report Final
Jeffares & Green (Pty) Ltd EXXARO NBC Coal
The DCP test results may also be used to obtain a rough estimate of the shear strength of the
soils.
The blow counts obtained from the DCP tests indicate that the soils at shallow depth (overlying
the ferricrete / weathered rock / gravel) typically have loose or very loose consistencies.
Extremely low blow counts of 1 blow per 300 mm were recorded at DCP6 and DCP8 which
were undertaken within the permanent zone of the wetland.
Refusal of the DCP probe is attributed to the presence of hard ferricrete, gravel (which typically
occurred immediately above the ferricrete in the trial pits) or possibly weathered rock.
An aspect of DCP testing that should always be borne in mind is that the results are affected
by the moisture content of the soil profile, as well as any gravel, concretions or boulders that
may be struck. A dry soil horizon will provide higher consistencies than a similar test
undertaken during the rainy season, when percolating water softens the subsoils. Moisture
content should thus always be noted and made mention of in any DCP investigation. Soils
within the proposed site were described as moist or wet and as such a significant reduction
in strength with increasing moisture content is not expected.
7. LABORATORY TESTING
The following laboratory tests were carried out on disturbed soil samples recovered from the trial
pits:
Refer to:
Grading analyses and hydrometer tests Appendix D1
Atterberg limit and linear shrinkage determinations Appendix D1
Triaxial testing Appendix D2
Moisture density relationship (Standard PROCTOR) Appendix D3
Permeability testing (Falling Head Permeability) Appendix D4
Chemical testing Appendix D5
The laboratory test results indicate that the colluvial soils are predominantly sandy or gravelly
in composition low with PIs (Plasticity Index) of between non-plastic and 8.
The alluvial soil recovered from TP6 (0,30-0,90 m) was non-plastic while the alluvial soil
recovered form TP8 (0,20-0,80 m) had a higher clay content and was moderately plastic with a
PI of 10 to 12.
The residual sandstone soils recovered from TP22 (1,00-1,75 m) and TP23 (0,95-1,80 m) were
predominantly sandy in composition and were moderately plastic with PIs of 8 to 10.
Chemical analysis was undertaken to determine the corrosivity of the soils to buried metal and
concrete. The chemical analysis results were used to determine the Langelier Index, the
Ryznar Stability Index, Stability pH and Aggressiveness Index. The full chemical analysis
results are included in Appendix D5 and the results are summarised in Table 7.5.
The chemical tests indicate that the soils are very highly corrosive towards concrete and metals.
The corrosive nature of the soils must be taken into account for the design of buried structures.
The ground conditions encountered in trial pits at each location are described below.
The profile descriptions at the west dam are based on materials recovered from hand auger
excavations. The excavation depths obtained with the hand auger was limited due to the
presence of gravel and ferricrete at most test positions.
The upper colluvial soil in the higher-lying areas was typically underlain by pale orange to
orange brown, loose, slightly gravelly silty sand.
Honeycomb ferricrete was encountered at the base of TP2 ( 0,50 m) and TP3 (0,80 m) and
loose ferricrete gavel was observed in TP10 between 0,80 and 1,05m below ground level.
Hardpan ferricrete was also noted in the vicinity of TP1 and occasionally over the higher-
lying sections of the site.
An upper horizon of dark grey brown, loose, silty sand with abundant organic matter was
encountered in TP6 and TP8 to depths of 0,10 and 1,20 m, respectively. Light grey to light
grey brown mottled orange, very loose slightly silty sand was encountered to depths of
0,30 m (TP6) and 0,50 m (TP8). Light grey to beige mottled light orange, loose slightly silty
sand containing cobbles with depth was encountered below the aforementioned horizon in
both trial pits.
In areas of deeper soil cover the profile typically consisted of brown, loose, silty fine sand
to gravelly silty fine sand underlain by pale orange to pale orange brown silty sand.
The pedogenic soils observed in the trial pits have formed in a predominately sandy parent
material that has the appearance of weathered sandstone rock in some of the trial pits.
Residual sandstone soils described as pale orange, medium dense to dense, silty fine
sand was observed in TP22 and TP23 to depths of 1,75 and 1,80 m, respectively.
8.4. Groundwater
Groundwater seepage or standing water was observed in the following trial pits:
It must be noted that the investigation was undertaken during the dry winter season. Given the
poor drainage conditions seepage is probable in other areas during the wetter summer season
and after rainfall.
The groundwater levels and the subsequent rates of infiltration into excavations will vary
seasonally.
The colluvial silty fine sand encountered in TP23 (0,35 0,70 m) was described as open-
voided. This texture is characteristic of a potentially collapsible soil. Further investigations
should be designed determine the collapse potential of the soils.
9. GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENT
The project involves the construction of two earth embankment dams with wall heights of
approximately 6 m. It is understood that the dams will be lined to prevent water loss. The design of
the dam embankments had not been confirmed at the time report this report was compiled. The
dam design will take into account the materials available on site.
The following broad assessment is provided for the two storage dams.
9.1. Foundations
There are two main geotechnical criteria for considering the foundations for a dam, firstly, the
dam needs to be founded on competent material of sufficient strength so that settlements are
limited and secondly the material beneath the dam must not allow for excessive seepage under
of the dam, whic h has the effect of destabilising the dam and also results in water loss.
The investigation indicates that founding material with sufficient strength to support an earthfill
dam embankment will be encountered at shallow depth at the East Dam site. Similar
competent foundation material will is expected at shallow depth in the central and southern
section of the proposed West Dam footprint. Very loose material was encountered in TP6 and
TP8 in the northern section of the West Dam footprint. This material will have a very low shear
strength and will be problematic as a founding medium.
Free standing water was observed at very shallow depth in TP6 and TP8 and compaction and
construction activities in this area will require dewatering. It is therefore recommended that dam
footprint is shifted in a southerly direction to avoid these problematic geotechnical conditions.
The permeability of the soils was found to be moderately permeable with permeability
coefficients of between 1,7 x 10-8 and 5,9 x 10 -8 m/s.
Given the geology of the area, obtaining s ufficient natural material suitable for clay core
material in close proximity to the project area will be problematic.
The strength properties of selected representative soil samples were obtained from triaxial
testing on samples re-compacted to specifications anticipated for embankment construction.
These results are considered suitable for preliminary design purposes. Given the s hallow
excavation depths achieved during this investigation it is recommended that further shear
strength testing is undertaken on representative samples of the actual materials that will be
used during construction.
Given the difficult excavation conditions it is recommended that further investigations are
undertaken using large excavation plant such as a track-mounted excavator fitted with a rock
bucket. Alternatively rotary core drilling may be considered.
10. CONCLUSIONS
This geotechnical investigation was undertaken to provide information for the preliminary design of
two lined earthfill storage dams. The investigation indicates that the sites are suitable for
construction of the storage dams, provided that the recommendations provided in this report are
implemented. The recommendations include moving the West Dam footprint in a southerly
direction to avoid problematic ground conditions that were encountered in the low-lying northern
section of the proposed footprint.
Even though the equipment employed to excavate trial pits was only able to penetrate to limited
depths, the investigation undertaken provides an adequate picture of the ground conditions for the
purposes of preliminary design. It is recommended that further investigations are undertaken for
detailed design purposes.
11. REFERENCES
Core Logging Committee of the South African Section of the Association of Engineering Geologists
(1976). A Guide to Core Logging for Rock Engineering. Proceedings of the Symposium on
Exploration for Rock Engineering, Johannesburg.
Jennings, J.E., Brink, A.B.A. and Williams, A.A.B. (1973). Revised Guide to Soil Profiling for Civil
Engineering Purposes in Southern Africa. Transactions of the South African Institution of Civil
Engineers, Vol. 15.
Johnson, M.R., Anhausser, C.R., Thomas, R.J. (1996) The Geology of South Africa. The
Geological Society of South Africa and the Council for Geoscience.
Weinert, H. H. (1964) Basic igneous rocks in road construction. Research Report 218, CSIR,
Pretoria.