Abstract

This study represents the technical due diligence of the hydroelectric plant consisting of the Anderson Dam (Leroy Anderson) and its power station, located in California, USA. This technical contribution is structured analyzing the hydrogeological aspects of the dam site's geographical context, including its structural behavior in the event of significant seismic events, and then going more in detail on the energy assessments that take into account the temporal distribution of rainfall and flow rates, as well as the efficiency of the hydraulic machinery installed.

Abstract

Hydropower plant future production estimation is based on hydrological-hydraulic data. The present metholodogy validates the median as the reference parameter to be used for a better interpretation of statistical series, because it is a centered value where duration curves and their complementary curves intersect. Then, it is not affected by extreme events, providing a well representation of the whole dataset.

Abstract

The Himalayan region, characterized by complex geological formations and high tectonic activity, presents significant challenges for tunnel construction. This paper examines geomechanical issues such as tunnel squeezing, stress-induced instability, and rock bursting, with a focus on hydropower and railway tunnel projects in Nepal and India. Case studies, including the Chameliya Hydroelectric Project, Parbati II Hydroelectric Project, Nilgirikhola Hydroelectric Project, and railway tunnels in the Garhwal Himalaya, highlight the impact of weak, schistose rock masses and extreme overburden pressures. Various engineering methodologies, including empirical, semianalytical, analytical, and numerical modeling approaches, are discussed to assess stress states and deformation behavior. The study underscores the need for adaptive excavation techniques, such as the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) and rock mass classification systems, to ensure tunnel stability. By integrating probabilistic analysis and advanced support systems, this research contributes to optimizing underground construction strategies in geologically challenging terrains.

Abstract

Robustness plays a relevant role in the capacity of a structure to sustain abnormal loads or to deal with unexpected events with large effects, such as explosions and terroristic attacks. Such situations on dams may have extremely large consequences. For buildings, the design approach that best implements robustness concepts is represented by the so called “Consequence Based Design”: even if nothing is known about the cause, selective element removals and extreme load on the structure are modeled, and their effects are determined with respect to progressive collapse and damage arrest. In the paper we try to set-up a “Consequence Based Assessment” of a typical example of a gravity dam built between the ‘30s and ‘40s of the last century in the northwestern Italian Alps. A simplified model of the structure is adopted. Removal of parts of the dam cross-section is assumed to occur: the effects of the extent of damage is discussed on the bases of the tension generated within the body of the dam.