Initiation and Propagation of Cracks in the Middle Diversion Pier of Xiaowan Arch Dam

Abstract:

The factors resulted in the cracking of Xiao-wan arch dam are extremely complicated. A numerical analysis based on elastic-viscoplastic mechanics theory has been developed to study the cracks in the middle diversion pier of Xiaowan Arch Dam. This analysis aims to investigate the cause of cracks and the reliability and accuracy of the analysis model have been examined. By using this analysis and the obtained results, the following conclusions are drawn: 1) cracks were not induced by a single cause, but a multitude of various effect such as stresses induced by thermal movements, the bond between the anchor cables and the surrounding concrete and the pressure due to the impounded water, amongst which the thermal stress is the most significant reason; and 2) with the presence of water in cracks, if the drainage hole continues to run overflowing water, the stress intensity factor of a crack tip will exceed the fracture toughness of the concrete. With the hydraulic fracture effect, the crack will grow continuously. The findings derived from this study will provide useful information for future projects of the similar nature.

• Periodical: Applied Mechanics and Materials (Volumes 638-640)
• Pages: 778-786
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.638-640.778
• Online since: September 2014
• Authors: Huan Feng Qiu*, Shao Jun Fu
• Keywords: Crack Initiation and Propagation, Finite Element, High Arch Dam, Pier with Pre-Stressed Cable, Stress-Intensity-Factor

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