Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
(OP)
Is wind load a concern on spillway gates when the are raised?
What problems wind can cause?
I am new to this subject, any information from experienced people will be greatly appreciates.
Sincerely,
What problems wind can cause?
I am new to this subject, any information from experienced people will be greatly appreciates.
Sincerely,






RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
But, you've got to calculate the real loads: Every dam is going to be in a valley ,on the ground itself, and the spillway gates are actually below the highest ground (the dam lip) behind retainers and gate guides. It is physically impossible for them to be hit by the extreme winds above ground above a hillside up a tower.
But ... The dam IS across a valley and so will tend to channel winds at certain times of the year up and across the top of the dam. Sideways (CA's extreme desert winds) forces may also come down the nearby mountains and sweep across the lip.
So. Go look up the past weather history for your site. Draw your geometry and figure out a reasonable factor. Do the math. Ask your boss what your company contract requirements are. Chances are, they will not include having to open or close spillway gates during a hurricane or tornado.
RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
I disagree. Not every dam is in a valley. In fact, I would argue that most dams are not in valleys.
RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
What purpose do they serve then? A dam on flat ground, or on a mountaintop, or under the ocean, would seem to not be doing much damming.
RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
Back to the OP'S question... Most dams have hydraulic model tests, and large structures wind to tunnel tests. Depending on your project, that could be warranted. As previously mentioned, the wind can vary greatly depending on the direction and topography.
Mike McCann, PE, SE (WA)
RE: Wind load and wind Effect on Spillway gates
If the gate is cantilevered above the dam in the open position, then yes I would check wind to ensure the supports are strong enough to hold it. Some rough calcs should be able to tell you if wind is a load which could govern in a situation.