Analysis of Seepage through Earth Dams by Using Finite Difference Numerical Method and Extended Pressure Technique

Analysis of flow passing through earth dam as an important problem is included in analysis and design of earth dams. In this research by using a numerical method based on finite difference; called extended pressure, location of the first seepage stream in earth dam as well as developed pore pressure in the dam body was investigated. In order to assess the accuracy of the applied method, results with analytical solution in one dimensional condition and in case of two dimensional conditions. The numerical results were compared with results obtained from earlier experimental data and other methods. Furthermore, the results obtained were compared with results of SEEP/W as popular software in seepage analysis. The results of this investigation confirmed that the presented method estimates the location of phreatic line and pore pressure distribution very well in earthen dam. Finally, a dimensionless parameter was presented for determination of exact height of water table.