Dams and Reservoirs - 15.5.4 | 15. Construction Surveys | Geo Informatics
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15.5.4 - Dams and Reservoirs

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Interactive Audio Lesson

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Importance of Core Wall Alignment

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Today, we're discussing the core wall alignment in the construction of dams. Can anyone tell me why the core wall is so important?

Student 1
Student 1

I think it helps prevent leakage, right?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! The core wall is designed to minimize seepage through the dam. If it's misaligned, it can cause significant safety issues. That's why surveys are conducted to ensure it's placed correctly. What tools do you think we might use for this?

Student 2
Student 2

Maybe a Total Station or GNSS?

Teacher
Teacher

You're right! Both Total Stations and GNSS are crucial for these surveys. They allow for precise measurements. Remember this acronym: 'T-GNSS' - Total Stations and GNSS for accurate surveying.

Student 3
Student 3

What happens if the alignment is off?

Teacher
Teacher

If the alignment is off, it can lead to increased seepage, which might compromise the dam's stability. We can't afford that! It's essential that engineers pay close attention during this phase.

Student 4
Student 4

So, regular monitoring is crucial?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! All right, to summarize, ensuring core wall alignment is vital for safety in dam construction, and we use tools like Total Stations and GNSS.

Monitoring Deformation

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Let's move on to deformation monitoring during impoundment. Why do you think this monitoring is critical?

Student 2
Student 2

Is it to see if the dam shifts or settles under the water pressure?

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! Monitoring deformation is crucial for detecting any shifts that could indicate potential failure. Can anyone think of some methods used for this monitoring?

Student 1
Student 1

Besides Total Stations, we might use sensors, right? Like inclinometers?

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly right! Inclinometers help measure the angle of slope and can indicate shifts in real-time. Remember the acronym 'D.O.T.' – Deformation Observation Tools for monitoring structural integrity.

Student 3
Student 3

What do we do if we notice deformation?

Teacher
Teacher

Excellent question! If deformation is detected, engineers must investigate immediately to assess the cause and decide on corrective measures. Safety comes first!

Student 4
Student 4

So, timely monitoring can prevent disasters?

Teacher
Teacher

Absolutely! In summary, monitoring deformation during impoundment is critical for the safety of dams, utilizing tools like Total Stations and inclinometers.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

This section discusses the importance of construction surveys in ensuring the accurate placement and monitoring of dams and reservoirs during the construction process.

Standard

Construction surveys for dams and reservoirs are critical for assuring design compliance and structural integrity. They focus on core wall alignment and monitoring deformation during impoundment, utilizing technologies such as GNSS and Total Stations.

Detailed

Detailed Summary

In the context of civil engineering, construction surveys play an essential role in the successful development of dams and reservoirs. This section highlights two key aspects:

  1. Surveying for Core Wall Alignment: Before, during, and after the construction of a dam, surveys ensure that core wall alignment is consistent with design specifications. This is crucial because the core wall is typically a key structural element that helps to prevent seepage and maintain the integrity of the dam.
  2. Monitoring Deformation During Impoundment: Once a dam is filled and begins impounding water, it is vital to monitor any movements or deformations in the structure. This is typically done through the use of instruments such as total stations and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems). Tracking deformation is essential to prevent potential failures and ensure the safety of the dam.

Through these practices, civil engineers guarantee that dams and reservoirs are not only built correctly initially but also maintained throughout their operational life, thus mitigating risks associated with structural failures.

Audio Book

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Survey for Core Wall Alignment

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• Survey for core wall alignment.

Detailed Explanation

Surveying for core wall alignment is crucial in the construction of dams. The core wall is a key component that prevents water from seeping through the dam structure. Conducting precise surveys ensures that the core wall is placed accurately according to the design specifications, which is essential for the dam's effectiveness and safety.

Examples & Analogies

Imagine building a wall in your home to keep water from entering your basement. If you don't measure and place it correctly, water could seep through, causing damage. Similarly, in dam construction, the core wall acts as a barrier against water; if it's not aligned properly, it could lead to serious safety issues. Proper surveying guides engineers to build this wall exactly where it needs to be.

Monitoring Deformation During Impoundment

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• Monitoring deformation during impoundment.

Detailed Explanation

Monitoring deformation during impoundment means tracking any changes in the structure of the dam as it is filled with water for the first time. As the water pressure increases, the dam may shift or deform slightly. Continuous monitoring helps engineers ensure the structure is stable and functioning as planned, preventing structural failures that could lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Examples & Analogies

Consider a sponge as you gradually submerge it in water. Initially, it holds its shape, but as it soaks up more water, it expands. If you didn’t keep an eye on it, the sponge could break down or tear. Similarly, engineers monitor the dam to observe any alterations in its shape due to the pressure of the water, ensuring everything holds together safely.

Definitions & Key Concepts

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Key Concepts

  • Core Wall: A critical dam component for reducing seepage.

  • Surveying: Determining the precise location and alignment of dam structures.

  • Deformation Monitoring: Tracking changes in structure under stress.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

See how the concepts apply in real-world scenarios to understand their practical implications.

Examples

  • Example of core wall alignment survey for a dam project.

  • Using inclinometers for deformation monitoring in an existing reservoir.

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Secure the core wall right, keep the water tight!

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once, there was a dam who had a core wall so bright. It stopped water leaks, ensuring structure was tight.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • D.A.M.: Design, Align, Monitor - the three steps to ensure dam integrity.

🎯 Super Acronyms

G.I.D.

  • GNSS
  • Inclinometers
  • Deformation - key tools for dam safety.

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

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  • Term: Core Wall

    Definition:

    A key structural element of a dam designed to minimize seepage.

  • Term: Deformation Monitoring

    Definition:

    The process of observing changes in structural dimensions and angles, especially during loading conditions like impoundment.

  • Term: Total Station

    Definition:

    An electronic/optical instrument essential for surveying that measures distances and angles.

  • Term: GNSS

    Definition:

    Global Navigation Satellite Systems, used for precise positioning in surveying.

  • Term: Inclinometer

    Definition:

    An instrument used to measure the angle of slope or verticality in structures.