Simulation of Temperature Field of High Arch Dams Considering Solar Radiation

Abstract

Due to factors such as seasonal variations in the solar azimuth angle and the masking of a dam body by itself or by a mountain, different areas of a high arch dam absorb significantly different amounts of solar radiation, which is likely to result in an uneven temperature distribution on the surface of the high arch dam and, subsequently, in unfavorable stress during the high arch dam’s construction and operation. Therefore, in calculations of the dam body’s temperature and for crack control, the effect of solar radiation should be taken into account accurately. Based on the mask algorithm, as well as local meteorological conditions, the effect of solar radiation is included in simulations of temperature and for crack control in high arch dams in the southwestern region. The engineering examples show that when solar radiation is included, the calculation’s accuracy improves significantly.