Numerical Analysis of Seepage through Earth-Fill Dams

Uncontrolled seepage through earth-fill dams may cause of dam failure. Seepage analysis, therefore, is an essential study required before construction for a safe and sustainable dam operation. In this study, numerical analysis of seepage through a theoretical case of an earth-fill dam was applied using SEEP/W program. Five different dam models, two with homogenous and three with zoned cross sections, have been studied. The study consists normal and maximum reservoir water levels, different drainage lengths and thicknesses, different percentages of permeability between shell and core. Total of 26 tests were conducted and the best model based on seepage behavior was chosen. Seepage analysis acknowledged that with availability of required soil quantity, the homogeneous model that has medium length of drainage with thickness of 0.5 m is the most appropriate model for the case study. Otherwise, zoned model with core at the centre with 1:0.5 (H:V) slope is recommended.