Direction of seismic loads and the need for seepage analysis prior to stability analysis
For the stability analysis of embankment dam, what should be the direction of horizontal and vertical seismic coefficient.
1.What is the meaning of a positive and negative coefficient for both vertical and horizontal case?
2. For eg. for the stability analysis of embankment dam for d/s slope what should be the sign for the values of seismic coefficient (vertical/horizontal)?
3. For stability analysis of dam at FRL, is it necessary to do seepage analysis before stability analysis?
And do provide references to your answer, it would be really helpful.
Thanking you in advance.
Answers
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Hello, the pseudo-static method applies an additional force based on the weight of the slice and the pseudo-static seismic coefficient (as shown below). The seismic coefficient is dimensionless and thus is always positive.
For more information on the pseudo-static method, please see the SLOPE/W course that is available in the Seequent Learning Centre or the Slope Stability Modelling Manual:
The need for a seepage analysis depends on how complex the pore water pressures are at your site. If the dam has many layers including filters, core, etc. a seepage analysis is likely necessary to capture the full pore water pressure conditions.
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