BSc (Eng) Civil Engineering Research Project by
TANYARADZWA USHAMBA
FINDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STATIC PROPERTIES AND WATER LEVEL OF ROODE ELSBERG DAM
Not a lot of man’s alterations or amendments of the landscape have introduced such a profound physical, economic and social revolution that dams have. Technical purposes of dams include headwater and flood control, water supply for the people and animals, irrigation purposes and hydroelectricity generation amongst others (Rubin & Warren, 1968). As much as dams can contribute positively to human lives, they can also prove to be catastrophic in the unfortunate events of their failure, hence it is imperative that all dams are monitored continuously during their operation. Some of the methods used for structural health monitoring of dams include measuring and analysing static properties of the dams.
This thesis research seeks to find the relationship between these static properties and the water level of a dam in the Western Cape Province of South Africa.
To ensure the continued and dependable delivery of benefits from a dam, the owner must have a
comprehensive plan for operation, maintenance, and rehabilitation. As dams become older, safe
performance becomes a concern. This requires more attention in the form of inspections, evaluations,
modifications, and upgrades of the older dams so they meet current technology, statutes, and
regulations.
United States Society of Dams
Dams bring water, power, flood control, recreation, economic possibilities, and many other
advantages to people. But people must understand that safe operation and maintenance is key to
sustaining these advantages and avoiding potential disaster.
Association of State Dam Safety Officials
