Modeling methods to assess technical condition of low-pressure earthen dams

The paper discusses the main parameters of the modern modeling methods and its application, which are used to assess the technical condition of long-running, low-pressure earthen dams. In Russia, the matter on justification to extend the operation life for hydraulic constructions of irrigation systems requires to be overhauled and discussed more. During the long-term operation of the low-pressure earthen dams, many construction elements can fail. Based on the surveys performed, the technical condition of the Kuban and Protoka rivers regulation system for a significant length is assessed as emergency. Over a long period of operation, some significant damages and changes in the main constructions of the river regulation system occurred. As a result of numerical experiments, the boundaries of the low-pressure earthen dams containing typical damage of the same type were systematized, which allows streaming the process of laying down the radarograms of georadar sounding subsurface and determining the points at which concrete strength should be measured during a field examination. As a result of numerical experiments conducted by the finite element method, the reliability of the low-pressure earthen dams of irrigation systems has been simulated to identify various combinations of possible destructive impacts. The degree of danger and the boundaries showing some characteristic zones of destruction which can occur in the low-pressure earthen dams’ parts have been defined. Empirical dependencies have been obtained to evaluate the performance of the low-pressure earthen dams with a changing location and nature of the lesions, allowing determining the maximum allowable damage scope for further safe operation of a hydraulic construction.