Abstract
The finite element has been used to develop two numerical methods of calculating the flow characteristics of rigid networks of planar fractures. One method uses triangular elements to investigate details of laminar flow in fractures of irregular cross section combined with that of a permeable rock matrix. The other method uses line elements and is designed only for flow in networks of planar fractures in an impermeable matrix. As an example of the application of the finite element approach the line element method was used to develop a series of dimensionless graphs that characterize seepage in idealized fracture systems beneath dams. These methods treat two‐dimensional flow in the laminar regime for networks of fractures of arbitrary orientation and aperture distribution.
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