Modelling approach for gravity dam break analysis

Abstract

The construction of dams in rivers can provide considerable benefits such as the supply of drinking and irrigation water; however the consequences which would result in the event of their failure could be catastrophic. They vary dramatically depending on the extent of the inundation area, the size of the population at risk. This paper presents an analysis of dam break model of Hammam Grouz in Algeria, for 100-years recurrence flood with the dam break occurring near the peak of the flood event. The software HEC-RAS was used to determine water-surface profiles of in-place and dam break scenario, this model supports on the resolution of the equation of Saint-Venant for unsteady flow analysis. Inundation maps were developed that shown the estimated extent of downstream floodwaters. Simulation results were used to determine the hazard classification of a dam break.