Gravity Dam Design

The purpose of this manual is to provide technical criteria and guidance for the planning and design of concrete gravity dams for civil works projects. This manual presents analysis and design guidance for concrete gravity dams. Conventional concrete and roller compacted concrete are both addressed. Curved gravity dams designed for arch action and other types of concrete gravity dams are not covered in this manual.

Basically, gravity dams are solid concrete structures that maintain their stability against design loads from the geometric shape and the mass and strength of the concrete. Generally, they are constructed on a straight axis, but may be slightly curved or angled to accommodate the specific site conditions. Gravity dams typically consist of a nonoverflow section(s) and an overflow section or spillway.