Dam Stabilization with Rock Anchors

Abstract Only - The application of post-tensioned rock anchors to enhance the stability of con­crete dams is as old as the technique itself. The first recorded use of anchors was in the raising of Cheurfas Dam in Algeria in 1934.
Anchors came fairly late to the United States but over the past 20 years their popularity amongst dam engineers has increased in line with the increasing pace of dam safety reevaluation and upgrading operations. They are employed to resist overturning forces, sliding tendencies and dynamic loadings.
The paper describes the developments in construction techniques which have facilitated economic anchor installations to great depths from difficult access and with high individual capacities. Improvements in drilling technologies and corrosion protection are especially noted. Performance and data analysis are also described.
The paper concludes with condensed case histories of particularly illustrative projects carried out in this country over the last few years.
It is intended that the paper will underline that rock anchors, properly designed and constructed, are a most valuable and reliable tool in increasing dam stability and safety, on a routine basis.