Evaluation of dam strength by finite element analysis

Current code procedures for stress and stability analysis of new and existing concrete-gravity dams are primarily based on conventional methods of analysis. Such methods can be applied in a straightforward manner but there has been evidence that they may be inaccurate or, possibly, not conservative. This paper presents finite element modeling and analysis procedures and makes recommendations for local failure criteria at the dam-rock interface aimed at predicting more accurately the behavior of dams under hydraulic and anchoring loads.