SMALL DAMS PETITS BARRAGES

Fig. 2.11 – Hlinky Concrete Gravity dam, height 11m, Czech Republic.
RCC DAMS
The term “roller compacted concrete” describes concrete used in the construction
process, which combines economical and rapid placing techniques of embankment material
with those excellent mechanical properties of concrete, such as strength and durability. This
technique is best suited to multi-layer constructions with a high ratio of surface to thickness,
that is to say, pavements and dams.
Today, roller compacted concrete dams are being discussed, designed, and constructed
in many of the developed and developing countries throughout the world. Its use in arch dam
construction has increased mainly in China, South Africa and Brazil.
Interest in this type of dam has increased for several reasons, the most prominent being
economics and construction speed. In many countries the costs of conventional concrete
dams have increased significantly faster than corresponding costs for embankment dams. But
the fact that concrete is such a good and long-lasting construction material, has stimulated
designers to seek new ways of using it in dam construction. They succeeded with the adoption
of RCC technology.
Several Brazilian RCC dams either built, under construction or being designed were
previously embankment dams. The change in dam types, owes much to the flexibility of
designers:
Usually taking into consideration the special requirements of the construction
methodology, trying to avoid embedded parts;
Maintaining a close link with those responsible for the layout and project
planning, thus adapting the design to the construction phases;
Taking advantage of the concrete characteristics.
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