Analysis of Seepage through Embankment Dams as Case Study (Al-Shahabi Dam) in Iraq

Abstract

One of the causes of the embankment dam failure is seepage. Seepage analysis is very import issues that should be considered. For this purpose a finite element method through a computer program, Geo Studio through its sub-program named SEEP/W, was used to determine the surface seepage line, amount of seepage through the dam and its foundation, the seepage velocity measurements, the pore water pressure distribution, the total head, the pressure head, and the exit gradient of homogenous earth dam. A case study was considered to be Al- Shahabi dam which is homogenous earth dam located in Wasit, Iraq. The dam at its actual design was analyzed by using the program SEEP/W 2012. Then several analyses are carried out to study the seepage through Al-Shahabi dam during different conditions; when empty reservoir (no water level), normal water level, and maximum water level. It was concluded that the amount of seepage, velocity of seepage and exit gradient during maximum water level greater than in case of normal water level which indicate that the amount of seepage, velocity of seepage and exit gradient increase with increasing height of water level in the upstream of the dam.