Nonlinear finite element analysis of Altınkaya Dam

Abstract

The behavior of earth and rockfill dams during construction is investigated in this study. In particular, attention is given to the prediction of stresses and deformations developed within Altınkaya Dam during construction. For this purpose, the computer program developed for analyzing the earth and rockfill dams is employed. The analyses are performed by finite element methods with linear or nonlinear material properties and assuming plane strain, isotropic conditions. The real soil behavior is represented in the analysis by means of hyperbolic stress-strain parameters and the incremental analysis procedure is followed to simulate the actual construction sequence. A parametric study is also conducted for determining the effects of the stress-strain parameters on the behavior of Altınkaya Dam and reasonable parameter ranges are established so as to minimize the stresses and displacements within the embankment.