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NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF VERTICAL DEFORMATIONS OF THE HYDROPOWER PLANT IN GABCIKOVO DURING CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION

Ľuboš Hruštinec

Abstract

The paper analyses in detail size of vertical deformation (settlement) for various loading states that may occur during construction and operation of Hydropower Plant (HPP) in Gabcikovo. During construction and operation of the HPP complicated loading states were applied onto sealing elements of underground tank and subsoil of the HPP foundation. Geotechnical calculations, a total of fourth load states modelled, taking into account significant changes in the stress state and deformation in the subsoil and on the supporting structures of the HPP. Material properties of soils and structures determined by the laboratory tests and in-situ loading tests. Geotechnical surveys for the gravel subsoil in the area in question recommended variable values of deformation modules, which size is functionally dependent on deep. Method of mathematic modeling with utilization of mathematical apparatus of numerical method of finite elements (FEM) used at problem solving. The task solved as planar in accordance with the assumption of the linear flexible theory. Geotechnical calculations are executed with GEO5© software (FEM Module). Realized calculations give quantitative and qualitative information on deformations and stresses of subsoil and foundation of hydropower plant. Calculation results (vertical deformations of HPP subsoil and foundation) for defined loading states and subsoil model assessed in the representative points of calculation model. Size of final and uneven settlement of foundation construction has also an influence on the reliable HPP operation. Reliable operation of HPP required also systematic measurements of subsoil deformation and foundation structure. Vertical deformations measurements of foundation were executed using geodetic method of very precise levelling on the mounted measuring points. The measurement of the settlement of the HPP structures started after the construction of the foundation structure and the installation of measuring points in 1986. The calculated values compared with the measured values of the vertical deformation of the HPP and their subsoil. Comparison of measured and calculated values of vertical displacements (settlements) of the HPP foundation structures showed a relatively very good agreement.

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