Author(s): Jose F. Melo; Jose Dias Da Silva; Irene Fernandes; Laura Caldeira; Luis Miranda
Linked Author(s): Irene Fernandes
Keywords: Movable dam founded in alluvia bed; Protective downstream riprap; Scouring; Rating curve
Abstract: Crestuma-Lever dam, completed in 1985, is located in Douro River. A large design flood of26, 000 m 3 /s involves 8 gated spillway bays with stilling basins directly founded on the alluvial river bed. Regular river bed surveillance downstream of the spillway evidenced unexpected progressive erosion of riprap. Prototype data from dam operation evidenced a significant change of downstream rating curve. Subsequent hydraulic model tests confirmed it as being the main cause of riprap erosion. Prototype observation data, invaluable physical modeling and interdisciplinary approach proved essential in confirming the causes of inadequate riprap behavior and in defining the corrective measures.
Year: 2014