Hydraulic Structures: Fourth Edition

ARCH DAM ANALYSIS 161

presented in Boggs (1975), and refined as necessary by mathematical or
physical models.

3.4.3 Arch stress analysis: elastic ring theory

Elastic analysis based on the application of classical ring theory is ade-
quate for the initial study of simple single-curvature arch dams of modest
height. The approach is therefore appropriate to the preliminary analysis
of constant-radius profiles. The more complex geometry of the constant-
angle profile makes it much less suitable for analysis by this method. Ring
theory is not applicable to cupola profiles.

excavation

line

grouting tunnel

drainage tunnel

grouting

tunnels

Fig. 3.15 Roode Elsberg cupola dam, South Africa