Nepal Engineering Council Registration Examination

8. HYDROPOWER
[as per Civil Engineering Syllabus (ACiE08)]

-Er. Babu Ram Karki

Hydropower Engineering 1
 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Headworks of Storage Plant

Components of typical storage plant

Dams( types, functions, selection, design, failure

modes and remedies)

Stability analysis of gravity dam

Seepage control and foundation treatment in dams

Design of intake, spillway and energy dissipaters

Gates(types and locations)

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.1 Components of Typical Storage Plant

Based on layout storage plants can be:

Storage projects with powerhouse at

the dam toe

Storage projects with powerhouse

located certain distance downstream
from the dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.1 Components of Typical Storage Plant

Layout of storage
project:

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.1 Components of Typical Storage Plant

Dam or reservoir
Spillway
Intake structure
Headrace Tunnel
Surge Tank
Penstock
Powerhouse
Tailrace Tunnel
Switchyard

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.1 Components of Typical Storage Plant

Dam or Reservoir Stores water to create hydraulic head for power generation.
Spillway Controls excess water release to prevent dam overtopping.
Intake Structure Diverts water from the reservoir to the headrace tunnel, filtering debris.
Transports water from the intake to the surge tank, minimizing energy
Headrace Tunnel
loss.
Surge Tank Absorbs pressure fluctuations to stabilize water flow.
Penstock Channels pressurized water to the turbines in the powerhouse.
Contains turbines and generators for converting hydraulic energy to
Powerhouse
electricity.
Tailrace Tunnel Discharges water from the powerhouse back into the river.
Switchyard Distributes electricity from the powerhouse to the grid.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.1 Components of Typical Storage Plant

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Where is the intake structure typically located in a storage plant?

A) Inside the powerhouse
B) At the tailrace tunnel exit
C) At the base of the dam
D) In the switchyard

Which component is responsible for transporting water from the intake

structure to the surge tank while minimizing energy loss?
A) Headrace Tunnel
B) Tailrace Tunnel
C) Powerhouse
D) Switchyard

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Where is the intake structure typically located in a storage plant?

A) Inside the powerhouse
B) At the tailrace tunnel exit
C) At the base of the dam
D) In the switchyard
Answer: C) At the base of the dam

Which component is responsible for transporting water from the intake

structure to the surge tank while minimizing energy loss?
A) Headrace Tunnel
B) Tailrace Tunnel
C) Powerhouse
D) Switchyard
Answer: A) Headrace Tunnel

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary purpose of a pumped storage power plant?

A) To generate electricity from solar energy
B) To store excess electricity for future use
C) To convert wind energy into electricity
D) To pump water uphill for later release to generate electricity

What is the function of the upper reservoir in a pumped storage power

plant?
A) It stores excess electricity.
B) It filters debris from the water.
C) It absorbs pressure fluctuations.
D) It stores potential energy in the form of elevated water.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary purpose of a pumped storage power plant?

A) To generate electricity from solar energy
B) To store excess electricity for future use
C) To convert wind energy into electricity
D) To pump water uphill for later release to generate electricity
Answer: D) To pump water uphill for later release to generate electricity

What is the function of the upper reservoir in a pumped storage power

plant?
A) It stores excess electricity.
B) It filters debris from the water.
C) It absorbs pressure fluctuations.
D) It stores potential energy in the form of elevated water.
Answer: D) It stores potential energy in the form of elevated water.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the advantage of using pumped storage for energy storage compared
to other methods:
A) It has higher efficiency.
B) It can store more energy.
C) It is environmentally friendly.
D) It is less expensive to build.

In storage projects with a powerhouse at the dam toe, where is the powerhouse
typically situated?
A) At the top of the dam
B) Below the dam, near the reservoir
C) Several miles downstream from the dam
D) Next to the spillway

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the advantage of using pumped storage for energy storage compared
to other methods:
A) It has higher efficiency.
B) It can store more energy.
C) It is environmentally friendly.
D) It is less expensive to build.
Answer: A) It has higher efficiency.

In storage projects with a powerhouse at the dam toe, where is the powerhouse
typically situated?
A) At the top of the dam
B) Below the dam, near the reservoir
C) Several miles downstream from the dam
D) Next to the spillway
Answer: B) Below the dam, near the reservoir

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary advantage of locating the powerhouse at the dam toe
in storage projects?
A) It minimizes environmental impact.
B) It reduces transmission losses.
C) It allows for greater water storage capacity.
D) It increases water flow rate.

In storage projects with a powerhouse located a certain distance

downstream from the dam, what is the primary purpose of this layout?
A) To improve water quality downstream
B) To enhance flood control capabilities
C) To increase the total head for power generation
D) To reduce construction costs

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary advantage of locating the powerhouse at the dam toe
in storage projects?
A) It minimizes environmental impact.
B) It reduces transmission losses.
C) It allows for greater water storage capacity.
D) It increases water flow rate.
Answer: B) It reduces transmission losses.

In storage projects with a powerhouse located a certain distance

downstream from the dam, what is the primary purpose of this layout?
A) To improve water quality downstream
B) To enhance flood control capabilities
C) To increase the total head for power generation
D) To reduce construction costs
Answer: C) To increase the total head for power generation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Dams are barriers across river with primary

function of:

• Forming a reservoir which has capacity to

store water

• Raising head to divert water flow into the

conveyance system.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Types of dams | Based on Function

- To store water for various purposes, such as:
Storage Dams - Municipal water supply - Irrigation and agriculture
- Hydropower generation - Recreation and tourism
- To redirect the flow of a river or stream for:
- Irrigation and agriculture
Diversion Dams
- Water supply to cities and industries
- Navigation and shipping
- To temporarily hold and control stormwater runoff, reducing
Detention Dams
downstream flooding.
- Temporary structures to create a dry work area in a water
Coffer Dams environment, such as a river or lake
- To facilitate construction or repair activities.
Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Types of dams | Based on Construction Material

Concrete Dams - Concrete, cement, and aggregates.

Earth Dams - Soil, rock, gravel, and clay.

Masonry Dams - Cut stone, rubble, or bricks in mortar.

Steel Dams - Steel plates, beams, and components.

Timber Dams - Timber or wooden materials, e.g., logs/planks.

Rubber Dams - Rubber or flexible materials.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Types of dams | Based on Structural Load Transfer Method

- Transfer the load of impounded water and other forces directly

Gravity Dams
to the foundation through their mass.

- Transfer the load to the abutments primarily through arch

action, which resists compressive forces. An arch dam is a dam
Arch Dams
that is designed to have a single curved wall, shaped like an
arch and having its convexity towards the upstream direction

- Use a series of supports (buttresses) on the downstream side to

Buttress Dams
transfer water pressure and other loads to the foundation.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Types of dams | Based on Hydraulic Design

- Designed to allow water to flow over the dam's crest, also

Overflow (Weir) Dams called weir or low dam.

- Designed to control water flow without allowing it to spill over

Non-Overflow Dams the dam's crest.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Types of dams | Based on Head

Low-Head Dams Few meters to 15 m

Medium-Head Dams 15 m to 50 m

High-Head Dams Exceeding 50 m

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Selection of Dams
S.N Character of Site Condition of site Type of Dam

Ingredient of concrete ie. Sand gravel and cement – Concrete gravity Dam
Availability of locally available
1 Construction Locally available of the previous and impervious soil Earth/Rock-fill Dam
materials and stone
Available stone in required size and specific gravity Stone Masonry Dam
Impervious solid rock such as schist and gneiss Any type
Poor rock, Gravel and coarse sands Rock fill dam
Foundation Sand and Silt Clay Earthen Dam
2
Character
Very fine and Uniform sands Earthen Dam
Silt and fine sand Low gravity dam or earthen dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Selection of Dams

S.N Character of the Site Condition of site Type of Dam

V-shape narrow gorge Arch Dam
3 Topography U shaped narrow gorge Overflow concrete Dam
Low wide George Earth/Rock Fill dam
Spillway location separate from main Earthen Dam
dam
4 Spillway requirement
Adequate width for dam only Gravity dam with overflow spillway
Large spillway requirements Overflow concrete dam
Seismic Zone Earth dam &concrete gravity dam
5 Character of the region
Excessive uplift pressure exerted Arch dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What type of dam is typically chosen for water storage reservoirs,

hydropower projects, and flood control in areas with strong foundations
and ample construction materials?
A) Arch Dams
B) Buttress Dams
C) Gravity Dams
D) Embankment Dams

In narrow canyon(deep gorge) locations with strong abutments, which

type of dam is often selected due to its efficient use of materials and
space?
A) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams
B) Spillway Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Arch Dams

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What type of dam is typically chosen for water storage reservoirs,

hydropower projects, and flood control in areas with strong foundations
and ample(enough) construction materials?
A) Arch Dams
B) B) Buttress Dams
C) C) Gravity Dams
D) D) Embankment Dams
Answer: C) Gravity Dams

In narrow canyon locations with strong abutments, which type of dam is

often selected due to its efficient use of materials and space?
A) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams
B) Spillway Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Arch Dams
Answer: D) Arch Dams

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

For projects in areas with weaker foundation materials and challenging

terrains, which dam type is suitable to effectively transfer loads and ensure
stability?
A) Embankment Dams
B) Timber Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Buttress Dams

Which type of dam is versatile and adaptable to various site conditions,

making it a common choice for different project requirements?
A) Diversion Dams
B) Gravity Dams
C) Embankment Dams
D) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

For projects in areas with weaker foundation materials and challenging

terrains, which dam type is suitable to effectively transfer loads and ensure
stability?
A) Embankment Dams
B) Timber Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Buttress Dams
Answer: D) Buttress Dams

Which type of dam is versatile and adaptable to various site conditions,

making it a common choice for different project requirements?
A) Diversion Dams
B) Gravity Dams
C) Embankment Dams
D) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams
Answer: C) Embankment Dams

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

In scenarios where a cost-effective, durable, and quickly constructed dam

is needed, which type of dam may be chosen?
A) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams
B) Diversion Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Timber Dams

In which type of terrain or geological condition are gravity dams often

preferred due to their strong foundation requirements?
A) Rocky mountains
B) Alluvial plains
C) Weak soil conditions
D) Desert regions

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

In scenarios where a cost-effective, durable, and quickly constructed dam

is needed, which type of dam may be chosen?
A) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams
B) Diversion Dams
C) Composite Dams
D) Timber Dams
Answer: A) Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) Dams

In which type of terrain or geological condition are gravity dams often

preferred due to their strong foundation requirements?
A) Rocky mountains
B) Alluvial plains
C) Weak soil conditions
D) Desert regions
Answer: A) Rocky mountains

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary load-bearing mechanism in arch dams that makes

them well-suited for narrow canyon locations?
A) Sheer mass
B) Arch action
C) Buttress support
D) Embankment design

In which type of topographical setting are arch dams typically most

efficient in terms of material usage?
A) Flat plains
B) Narrow canyons
C) Plateaus
D) Coastal areas

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary load-bearing mechanism in arch dams that makes

them well-suited for narrow canyon locations?
A) Sheer mass
B) Arch action
C) Buttress support
D) Embankment design
Answer: B) Arch action

In which type of topographical setting are arch dams typically most

efficient in terms of material usage?
A) Flat plains
B) Narrow canyons/valley
C) Plateaus(large area of flat land that is higher than other areas of land)
D) Coastal areas
Answer: B) Narrow canyons

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

In which type of terrain or geological condition are buttress dams often

preferred due to their effective load distribution?
A) Rocky mountains
B) Coastal regions
C) Alluvial plains
D) Plateaus

Which if the following is a type of Arch Dam:

A. Constant Radius Arch Dam
B. Variable Radius Arch Dam
C. Constant Angle Arch Dam
D. All of the above

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

In which type of terrain or geological condition are buttress dams often

preferred due to their effective load distribution?
A) Rocky mountains
B) Coastal regions
C) Alluvial plains
D) Plateaus
Answer: C) Alluvial plains

Which if the following is a type of Arch Dam:

A. Constant Radius Arch Dam
B. Variable Radius Arch Dam
C. Constant Angle Arch Dam
D. All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary purpose of a cofferdam in construction and

engineering projects?
A) To store large quantities of water
B) To create a temporary dry work area within a water body
C) To generate hydropower
D) To regulate water flow in rivers

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary purpose of a cofferdam in construction and

engineering projects?
A) To store large quantities of water
B) To create a temporary dry work area within a water body
C) To generate hydropower
D) To regulate water flow in rivers
Answer: B) To create a temporary dry work area within a water body

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)
Design of Gravity Dam | Forces acting on Dam
1. Primary load
a. water load
b. Seepage or uplift load
c. Self weight load
2. Secondary load
a. Sediment Load
b. hydrodynamic load
c. wave load
d. Wind Load
e. Ice Load
3. Exceptional Load:
a. Seismic Loads
Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI
 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Forces acting on Dam | Primary Load

1. Primary load
a. water load
b. Seepage or uplift load
c. Self weight load

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the main function of a drainage gallery in a dam?

A) To store water for future use
B) To provide access for maintenance workers
C) To facilitate the drainage of seepage water from the foundation
D) To regulate the flow of the spillway

How can uplift pressures be minimized or controlled in dam design?

A) By increasing the weight of the dam
B) By reducing the seepage through the foundation
C) By enlarging the spillway
D) By increasing the height of the dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the main function of a drainage gallery in a dam?

A) To store water for future use
B) To provide access for maintenance workers
C) To facilitate the drainage of seepage water from the foundation
D) To regulate the flow of the spillway
Answer: C) To facilitate the drainage of seepage water from the foundation

How can uplift pressures be minimized or controlled in dam design?

A) By increasing the weight of the dam
B) By reducing the seepage through the foundation
C) By enlarging the spillway
D) By increasing the height of the dam
Answer: B) By reducing the seepage through the foundation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Intensity of Uplift pressure is maximum at

A) U/S end of dam
B) D/S end of dam
C) Constant throughout
D) None of the above

The recommended uplift at the face of the drainage gallery is equal

to……. , where H and H’ are water head at u/s and d/s respectively
A) γ k [H’ + (H – H’)/3]
B) γ k H’
C) γ k (H – H’)/3
D) γ k [H – (H – H’)/3]

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Intensity of Uplift pressure is maximum at

A) U/S end of dam
B) D/S end of dam
C) Constant throughout
D) None of the above
Answer: A) U/S end of dam

The recommended uplift at the face of the drainage gallery is equal

to……. , where H and H’ are water head at u/s and d/s respectively
A) γ k [H’ + (H – H’)/3]
B) γ k H’
C) γ k (H – H’)/3
D) γ k [H – (H – H’)/3]
Answer: A) γ k [H’ + (H – H’)/3]

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Forces acting on Dam | Secondary Load

1. Secondary load
a. Sediment Load
b. Hydrodynamic
c. wave load
d. Wind Load
e. Ice Load

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Secondary Load | Sediment Load

Rankine formula is used

1. Horizontal Silt pressure
= (1/2)* ϒs * Ka * h2
2. Acts at h/3 from base
1−sinØ
3. Ka= active earth pressure =
1+sinØ

Ø is angle of internal friction

ϒs= ϒsilt- ϒwater

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Failure Modes

1. Overturning of Dam

2. Sliding of Dam (shear failure)

3. Crushing of Dam (compression)

4. Development of Tension in Dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Design of Earth Dams

1. Height of dam : High flood level(HFL) + Free Board (FB)

2. Top width of dam:

Top width should be minimum 3 m and is generally govern by the minimum roadway
width requirements.
Thumb rule:
a) W = H/5 +3 for very low dams,
b) For dams lower than 30m W = 0.55(H)0.5+ H/5
c) For dams higher than 30m,W = 1.65(H + 1.5) 1/3

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Design of Earth Dams

3. Fixation of Free Board

Difference between top of dam and normal

reservoir level. Depends on wave height. Should
be atleast 1.5 times wave height.

4. Upstream and Downstream slopes

The u/s and d/s slopes should be flat enough to

provide sufficient base width at the foundation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Design of Earth Dams

4. Central Core of dam : Minimum width of central core

should be 3m

5. Drainage from downstream side of dam:

The seepage line (phreatic line) should remain within the

downstream face of the dam, so that no sloughing of the
face occurs.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Failure in Earthen Dam:

1. Hydraulic Failure

2. Seepage Failure

3. Structural failure

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Hydraulic Failure

1. Overtopping
2. Erosion of U/s face
3. Erosion of D/s face by rain wash
4. Erosion of downstream toe by tailwater
5. Cracking due to frost action

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Seepage Failure
1. Piping through dam body
2. Piping through the foundation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.2 Dams (types, functions, selection, design, failure modes and remedies)

Structural Failure
1. Sliding due to weak foundation
2. Sliding of upstream face due to sudden drawdown
3. Sliding of downstream face due to slope being too steep
4. Faulty construction
5. Failure of dam by burying animals

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.3 Stability analysis of Gravity Dam

Stability Analysis:
1) Stability against overturning:
Resisting Moment
Factor of Safety (F.S)=
Overturning Moment
Should not be less than 1.5

2) Factor of safety against sliding

𝜇Σ𝑉
F.S= Should always be greater than 1
Σ𝐻
𝜇= coefficient of friction (0.6 to 0.75)
f

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.3 Stability analysis of Gravity Dam

Stability Analysis:

3) Crushing or Compression Failure

4) Tension Failure
Since concrete and masonry are very weak in tension, tension
is not allowed to be developed
f

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.3 Stability analysis of Gravity Dam

Stability Analysis:

Middle Third Rule

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.3 Stability analysis of Gravity Dam

Stability Analysis:
Shear Friction Factor (S.F.F) :
(FoS against shear failure)
In case of large high dams, the shear strength of the
joint should also be considered along with static
coefficient of friction, In this case the factor of safety
is known as Shear Friction Factor (S.F.F)
𝜇Σ𝑉 + 𝐵𝑞
S. F. F =
Σ𝐻
B= Width of joint or section
q=Shear strength of joint usually taken as 14kg/cm2
Safe value of S.F.F should lie between 4 and 5.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the Middle Third Rule in the context of dam engineering?

A) A guideline for designing spillways
B) A principle for estimating live loads
C) A rule of thumb for determining the proper location of the dam's center of gravity
D) A criterion for ensuring the structural stability of a dam's cross-section

According to the Middle Third Rule, where should the center of gravity of the dam cross-
section ideally be located?
A) In the upper third of the cross-section
B) In the middle third of the cross-section
C) In the lower third of the cross-section
D) At the crest of the dam

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the Middle Third Rule in the context of dam engineering?

A) A guideline for designing spillways
B) A principle for estimating live loads
C) A rule of thumb for determining the proper location of the dam's center of gravity
D) A criterion for ensuring the structural stability of a dam's cross-section
Answer: D) A criterion for ensuring the structural stability of a dam's cross-section

According to the Middle Third Rule, where should the center of gravity of the dam cross-
section ideally be located?
A) In the upper third of the cross-section
B) In the middle third of the cross-section
C) In the lower third of the cross-section
D) At the crest of the dam
Answer: B) In the middle third of the cross-section

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.4 Seepage Control & Foundation Treatment in Dams

Seepage Control

1. Seepage control through the dam

2. Seepage control through the dam foundation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.4 Seepage Control & Foundation Treatment in Dams

Seepage Control | Seepage control through the dam

1. Rock toe or toe filter

2. Horizontal blanket drains
3. Chimney drains

By providing horizontal drainage filter L = 3*H or 25 to 100% of horizontal

distance between the centre line of the top width to the toe.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

By providing filter drainage - filter in inclined to the toe height of the

rock toe 25 to 30% of H

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.4 Seepage Control & Foundation Treatment in Dams

Seepage Control | Seepage control through the dam foundation

1. Impervious Cutoff wall

2. Relief wall or drain trench
3. Upstream blanket
4. Grouting and grout curtain

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.4 Seepage Control & Foundation Treatment in Dams

Foundation Treatment of Gravity Dams

Foundation Grouting

a. Consolidation
grouting
b. Curtain grouting

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary function of horizontal blanket drains in dam

engineering?
A) To increase the dam's height
B) To facilitate hydroelectric power generation
C) To promote seepage through the foundation
D) To intercept and divert seeping water away from the dam

What is the primary purpose of chimney drains in dam construction?

A) To add stability to the dam's crest
B) To provide an outlet for floodwaters
C) To control seepage and uplift pressures in the dam's core
D) To create a pathway for hydroelectric power generation

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

What is the primary function of horizontal blanket drains in dam

engineering?
A) To increase the dam's height
B) To facilitate hydroelectric power generation
C) To promote seepage through the foundation
D) To intercept and divert seeping water away from the dam
Answer: D) To intercept and divert seeping water away from the dam

What is the primary purpose of chimney drains in dam construction?

A) To add stability to the dam's crest
B) To provide an outlet for floodwaters
C) To control seepage and uplift pressures in the dam's core
D) To create a pathway for hydroelectric power generation
Answer: C) To control seepage and uplift pressures in the dam's core

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Intake is the hydraulic structure provided at the mouth (entrance) of a water

conveyance system to withdraw water from the reservoir or river to power house.

Location of intake:
It has to be decided based on following primary considerations:
• Adequate inflow
• Less silt inflow
• Least head loss
• Least Environmental impact
• Best location for intake is outer or concave bank to avoid sediment load

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Depending upon the type of power

plant and its layout:
A) ROR type plant B) Reservoir Intake
-draw water from fresh i. Dam Intake
continuous river flow without any
appreciable pondage ii. Shaft or Glory hole intake
iii. Tower intake
i. Side (lateral) intake
ii. Frontal intake
iii. Drop intake/ bottom/ trench

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Design of intake structure

(i) Selection of Type of intake:
Based on site and hydraulic conditions either side, frontal, trench, pressure, non-
pressure intake is adopted.

ii) Determine the capacity of intake

The design discharge should be taken as 10-20% more than that of turbine discharge

iii)Fixing intake invert level:

Based on sediment content (bed load) in the river and experience on design and
construction, invert level shall be 0.5 m to 2 m above the under sluice level according
to the site condition
Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Design of intake structure

(iv) Satisfy velocity Criteria:
The entrance velocity should be less than 0.6m/s to 0.8m/s however upto 1m/s for
small system.

(v) Determination of number of opening

(vi) Account the contraction loss due to the pier, abutment: generally effective length is
taken as 0.9-0.95 times the actual opening.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

(vii) Intake opening/orifice- is designed as broad crested weir with submergence or free
flow condition depending upon the water level at u/s, d/s and on the weir. The intake
opening under the gate control can also be designed based on orifice flow equation:
Qd =A*C*√2g*(H – h))
Where, H=river water level =depth of river water in front of intake
h=canal water level=depth of water in canal
C=constant depends on the shape of opening. For sharp edge and roughly finished
opening=0.6 and for carefully finished=0.8

(viii) Calculate hydraulic loss:

trash rack loss entrance loss
transition loss gate loss

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Spillway:

A spillway is a structure constructed

near the dam site to dispose surplus
water from the reservoir to the
channel downstream.

It acts as a safety valve.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Design of Spillway
The mostly used spillway in concrete gravity dams, arch dams are Ogee or Overflow
spillway.
It is also called as nappe shaped spillway as the downstream face of the spill way is
provided to follow the lower face of free flow nappe.

The design discharge Q of the spillway is given by

Q = C Le H03/2 or q = CH03/2

Where, C = coefficient of discharge approximately equals to 2.2[range of 2.1-2.5]

H0 measured head over the crest including velocity head = H0=h0+V2/2g,
Le = effective length of the crest weir

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

When flood discharge passes over the spillway

crest, it has high potential energy which gets
converted into kinetic energy as it slides down.
It causes erosion at the downstream toe of the
dam. So, Energy dissipaters are placed at such
places.

A spillway provided in the dam site always

consists of an energy dissipating structure at the
toe of the dam. It kills the excess energy of
surplus water and thus prevents damages to
the dam and any other appurtenant structures
in the downstream.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

Tail water depth and characteristics of hydraulic

jumps govern the choice of energy dissipating
structures.
Energy dissipation of water passing over the crest
of spillway may be achieved by one of the
following methods:

a) Hydraulic Jump Type Stilling Basin

b) Roller Bucket
c) Deflector Bucket / Flip Bucket / Ski Jump
Bucket / Trajectory Bucket

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

1. Hydraulic Jump Type Stilling Basin

A stilling basin is a structure provided at the toe
of spillway in order to dissipate the energy of
excess water coming from spillway by
formation of hydraulic jump within the confines
of the basin. The flow passing at critical depth
over the crest of spillway becomes super
critical at dam toe which when meets the
normal flow at subcritical depth in the
downstream side. The stilling basin consists of,
i. Chute blocks
ii. Baffle blocks
iii. End Sills

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

2. Roller Bucket
Roller bucket is used to
dissipate the energy in
situation when the tail water
depth is much more than the
post jump depth.

When high velocity sheet of

water slides down the
spillway, it gets arrested by the
tail water.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

3. Deflector Bucket / Flip Bucket / Ski Jump Bucket /
Trajectory Bucket
Used when the tail water depth is insufficient for the
formation of hydraulic jump. i.e. tail water depth is much
less than post jump depth.
Suitable for the situation where foundation rock is of good
quality and can withstand the erosive action of striking jet.
The trajectory bucket deflects the high velocity jet into the
air and is made to strike the river bed at a considerable
distance from the structure.
The energy dissipation is achieved due to combined action
of air resistance, viscous effect and turbulence due to
impact on the river bed.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.5 Design of intake, Spillway and Energy Dissipator

USBR Recommendation

USBR has standardized stilling basin for the different ranges of Froude numbers. The
important of these basins are:
i)USBR type basin I (Fr < 1.7 and incoming velocity (V₁) < 15 m/sec.)
ii) USBR type basin II (Fr ≥ 4.5 and incoming velocity (V₁) ≥ 15 m/sec.)
iii) USBR type basin III (Fr ≥ 4.5 and V₁ < 15 m/sec.)
iv) USBR type basin IV (2.5 < Fr <4.5 and V₁ < 15 m/sec)

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.6 Gates (types and location)

The barrier installed over the permanent

crest of the spillway, for storing additional
water during dry weather season.

The small flows in excess above the spillway

gates is allowed to pass over the gates, but
in case of large flood, the spillway gates
are opened and the full capacity is used to
remove excessive flood water.

Spillway gates can be provided on all types

of spillways except siphon spillway.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.6 Gates (types and location)

Based on the gate operations, the gates

can be of two types i.e.
a) Manual type and
b) Machine operated gates.
The machine operated gates are of heavy
and of large size.

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3.6 Gates (types and location)

Following types of spillway gates are commonly used:

a) Flash board gates

b) Stop logs or needle gates
c) Radial gates
d) Vertical lifts gates i.e. ordinary gate
e) Rolling gate like a shutter
f) Drum gate
g) Bear and trap gate

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Hydropower Engineering BY: ER. BABU RAM KARKI

 8. HYDROPOWER

Let’s move to,

Multiple Choice
Questions

Hydropower Engineering 95 RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the primary function of an embankment dam?
A) To generate hydroelectric power
B) To store large volumes of water
C) To prevent flooding
D) To regulate water flow for irrigation purposes

2. What is the most suitable type of dam for narrow valleys with steep slopes?
A) Concrete dam
B) Rock fill dam
C) Arch dam
D) Earth fill dam

Hydropower Engineering 96 RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

3. Which of the following factors is NOT considered when selecting a dam site?
A) Large storage capacity
B) Good hydrological conditions
C) Proximity to urban centers
D) Low silt inflow

4. ------------ is not a consideration for site selection of hydroelectric power plant.

a) rocky land
b) sedimentation
c) large catchment area
d) availability of water

Hydropower Engineering 97 RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

5. The function of a cut off in an earth dam is to
(a) Support the dam
(b) prevent undermining of foundation
(c) Reduce uplift pressure of dam
(d) increase loss of stored water

6. An arch dam is constructed with

(a) Earth
(b) concrete
(c) Boulders
(d) None of above

Hydropower Engineering 98 RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

7. The self weight of gravity dam
(a) Favors stability
(b) causes uplift
(c) causes overturning
(d) causes sliding

8. A site where there is a requirement of large capacity spillway, what type of dam is
suitable
(a) Arch dam
(b) Earthen dam
(c) Rock fill dam
(d) Over flow dam

Hydropower Engineering 99 RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

9. What is the highest elevation of water level that can be maintained in the reservoir
without any spillway discharge either with gated or non-gated spillway?
a) Normal Water level
b) Minimum Water level
c) Weighted average level
d) Operating head

10. Trash racks are built for…..

a) discharging the water freely from the turbine exit to tailrace
b) preventing the turbine from the floating and other materials
c) creating artificial head to store sufficient potential energy of water
d) controlling the opening of valves

Hydropower Engineering 100RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

11. Dam having very wide base as compared to its height is called.
a) buttress dam
b) arch dam
c) earth dam
d) solid gravity dam

12. Spillway discharges the overflow water to the downstream side when the
reservoir is full.
a) True
b) False

Hydropower Engineering 101RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

13. In a hydro-electric plant, spillways are used
a) To dissipate energy of surplus water
b) To discharge surplus water on the downstream side of dam
c) Water is not available in sufficient quantity
d) None of the above

14. Gross head is the difference between

a) head race and tail race
b) head race and net head
c) head race and friction losses
d) net head and friction losses

Hydropower Engineering 102RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

15. What is the main component of a hydropower system?
a) Dam
b) Turbine
c) Generator
d) All of the above

16. Which of the following is not a potential failure mode for a dam?
a) Overtopping
b) Seismic activity
c) Erosion
d) Volcanic eruption

Hydropower Engineering 103RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

17. What is the purpose of seepage control in dams?
a) To prevent water from flowing under the dam
b) To prevent water from flowing over the top of the dam
c) To prevent water from eroding the sides of the dam
d) To prevent water from entering the reservoir too quickly

18. Which of the following is a type of foundation treatment used in dam construction?
a) Grouting
b) Piling
c) Blasting
d) All of the above

Hydropower Engineering 104RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

19. Which of the following is not a type of energy dissipater?
a) Stilling basin
b) Roller bucket
c) Flip bucket
d) Inverted umbrella

20. A ski-jump bucket is also known as _____________________

a) flip bucket
b) solid roller bucket
c) slotted roller bucket
d) flexible bucket

Hydropower Engineering 105RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

21. What is the function of a spillway in a dam?
A) To generate hydroelectric power
B) To regulate water flow for irrigation purposes
C) To provide an emergency release for excess water
D) To prevent water seepage

22. What is the primary cause of dam failure due to overtopping?

A) Inadequate spillway capacity
B) Poor design of the dam foundation
C) Natural disasters such as earthquakes
D) Human error during construction or maintenance

Hydropower Engineering 106RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

23. What is an energy dissipater in a dam structure?
A) A device that generates hydroelectric power
B) A structure that reduces the velocity of water flowing downstream of the dam
C) A gate that regulates the flow of water through the dam
D) A mechanism that controls the water level in the reservoir

24. A site where spillway location is available separate from dam, what dam is suitable
(a) Arch dam
(b) gravity dam
(c) Ogee dam
(d) earth dam

Hydropower Engineering 107RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU
 8. HYDROPOWER

8.3 Multiple Choice Questions

25. A Dam with crest level of 1510masl has water elevation of 1505 msl. What is the
elevation at which the point of application of horizontal component of hydrostatic
pressure acts if the base of the dam is at 1450 msl.
a) 1458.28
b) 1479.55
c) 1468.33
d) None of the above
26. The recommended uplift at the face of the drainage gallery is equal
to……. , where H and H’ are water head at u/s and d/s respectively
a) γw k [H’ + (H – H’)/3]
b) γw k H’
c) γw k (H – H’)/3
d) γw k [H – (H – H’)/3]

Hydropower Engineering 108RAM KARKI

BY: ER. BABU