Additional Vogt Coefficients and Improved Trial Load Method for Arch Dams

In recent years,the perceivable difference in observed and computed deflections for arch dams suggests the necessity to consider the side-load action of the hydrostatic pressure on reservoir basin (HPRB).In this paper,two additional Vogt coefficients with regard to the normal and angular deflections of arch dam foundation due to the action of HPRB are firstly elaborated,then an algorithm of the improved trial load method (ITLM) taking into account of conventional (six) and additional (two) Vogt coefficients is implemented.The elastic finite element method is employed as the bench mark in the verification of the improved method,which confirms that a better prediction of dam deflections and their gradient related stresses for arch dams may be provided by the ITLM taking into account of HPRB action.