Analysis of seepage in the foundation of Pedrógão dam

Abstract

Pedrógão dam is an RCC gravity dam which shows some local high flow rates in the foundation. In this paper a study on the foundation’s hydraulic behaviour is presented. The data obtained in a series of inlet water tests was used to study a specific cross section of the dam. A numerical model was developed for the analysis of the flow in the rock mass and to support the assessment of the field results. The safety evaluation for failure scenarios involving the foundation is addressed. Some conclusions are drawn about the usefulness of the information provided by inlet water tests and about suitable models to study the dam foundation’s hydraulic behaviour.