Author(s): Liyuan Zhang; Faxing Zhang
Linked Author(s): Faxing Zhang
Keywords: Earthquake-damaged arch dam dam-break floods peak discharges peak flow depth
Abstract: Earthquake-damaged arch dams are highly susceptible to failure under significant flood loads, such as those caused by upstream dam-break floods, leading to potentially catastrophic consequences. It is crucial to strengthen our understanding of this phenomenon. In this paper, an experimental system for the break of earthquake-damaged arch dams was designed, which achieved the automatic collapse of earthquake-damaged arch dams under the action of upstream dam-break floods. Using flume experiments, this study systematically investigates the evolution of dam-break floods following the failure of the earthquake-damaged dam and compares these results with single dam break scenarios to highlight the distinct characteristics of two dams break floods. Non-contact LiDAR technology was employed to capture the free surface of the dam-break floods, allowing for indirect measurement of cross-sectional discharge and velocity. The findings indicate a linear relationship between the peak discharges at the earthquake-damaged arch dam and both the break heights of the dam and the initial flow depth in reservoir. Specifically, an increase in break heights and initial flow depth corresponds to higher peak discharges. While the spacing between dams has a minimal impact on peak discharges, it significantly affects the peak flow depth in downstream channel. These insights can provide valuable guidance for assessing flood risks associated with dam failures and for managing disaster response and emergency scenarios effectively.
Year: 2025