2.4.2 Defect mechanisms, failure modes and design principles
The principal defect mechanisms and failure modes identifiable with
embankment dams are illustrated in schematic form in Fig. 2.8. Certain
mechanisms are interrelated, e.g. overtopping may result from inadequate
spillway capacity or from a lack of freeboard which may, in turn, be the
62 EMBANKMENT DAM ENGINEERING
weak
horizon
soft, compressible
horizon
(a) Overtopping leading to
washout; less cohesive silts,
sands, etc. at greatest
short-term risk
(b) Internal erosion and
piping with migration of
fines from core etc.: also in
foundation (note regression
of ‘pipe’ and formation
of cavities; may initiate
by internal cracking or by
preferential seepage paths in
foundation or along culvert
perimeter etc.)
(c) Embankment and
foundation settlement
(deformation and internal
cracking); note also
cross-valley deformation
modes:
(d) Instability (1):
downstream slope too high
and/or too steep in relation
to shear strength of the
shoulder material
(e) Instability (2): upstream
slope failure following rapid
drawdown of water level
(f) Instability (3): failure of
downstream foundation due
to overstress of soft, weak
horizons
Fig. 2.8 Illustrative embankment defect mechanisms and failure modes
