Determination of dynamic behavior of arch dams using finite element and experimental modal analysis methods

In this thesis, dynamic behaviors of arch dams are determined using finite element and experimental modal analyses methods. For this purpose, analytical and experimental studies are done on the laboratory model of Type-1 arch dam and Berke Arch Dam.The thesis is considered three main sections. In the first section of the thesis; background of dynamic behavior of arch dams, finite element and experimental modal methods, and formulation of these methods are represented. In the second section of the thesis, analytical and experimental studies done on Type-1 arch dam and Berke Arch Dam, and findings from these studies are considered. The second section of the thesis is separated to two main parts. In the first part; different reservoir height and length effects on the dynamic characteristics of Type-1 arch dam are investigated. Finite element models of Type-1 arch dam are constituted for each case and the analytical dynamic characteristics are determined. Ambient and forced vibration tests are conducted to Type-1 arch dam and experimental dynamic characteristics are determined. In addition, analytical and experimental results are compared to each other. In the second part; 3D finite element model of Berke Arch Dam-reservoir-foundation system based on Lagrangian approach is constituted, modal analysis of the dam is performed and analytical dynamic characteristics are determined. To check the analytical results, ambient vibration tests are conducted to Berke Arch Dam and experimental dynamic characteristics are determined. Initial finite element model of Berke Arch Dam is updated according to experimental results. Linear time history analyses of both of initial and updated finite element model are performed. Structural performance of Berke Dam is evaluated according to linear analyses results. In the third section of the thesis; conclusions and some suggestions related to the thesis study are represented. Lastly, references and autobiography are represented. In the thesis, the importance of the ambient and forced vibration tests on the determination of dynamic behavior of arch dams is highlighted.