Stability of earthrockfill dams: Influence of geometry on the three-dimensional effect
A series of parametric studies were performed to investigate the three-dimensional (3D) effect on the stability of an earthrockfill dam, with respect to some major factors, such as geometrical characteristics of the dam and topography of the canyon. The lengthheight ratio of the earthrockfill dam clearly influences the 3D safety factor. A power function suitably expresses the relationship between the increment ratio for the safety factor and the lengthheight ratio. The canyon shape, gradient of dam slope and height of the dam significantly influence the 3D effect. The results may be used as a blueprint by combining the two-dimensional (2D) safety factor in common use, and the relationship between 2D and 3D safety factors established in this study.
stability earthrockfill dam three-dimensional effect safety factor