Theory and practice of damming river channels of the USSR

Abstract

1. During the years of the first 5-year plan a hydraulic theory of damming channels of large rivers by dumping stone and blocks into the stream was developed in our country. The theory of damming was utilized and was well confirmed in hydrotechnical practice of erection of dams and of coffer dams. 2. On this basis the flood plain location of Upper Volga and of other hydrocenters on plain rivers was worked out in the pre war period. The channels of these rivers were then dammed up by frontal fills with high hydraulic and production indices. 3. The frontal method of damming with the use of floating bridges and automotive transport of fill material rock, outsize blocks, massifs, and frames found wide application in postwar years. With this method important dammings were sucdessfully and dependably accomplished on erodible river channels of the Svir', Dnepr, and Volga (in several sections) in the construction of a number of the largest hydroelectric stations. Simultaneously the theory of damming channels with the frontal, pioneer and combined methods was further refined and developed. 4. The last decade is characterized by the mass application of the pioneer method of damming rocky channels on high planning and production levels. Directed explosions, seepage through the fills and silting with sand have also been utilized. At the present time, new ways are being worked our for further technical-economic improvement of damming of river channels of our country which are based on hydraulic theory and practice.