Using Dynamic Tests to Evaluate Structural Status of Barrage Before and After Rehabilitation

Abstract

Many old barrages along the Nile river face different problems, such as increased discharge or/and differences in head, scour, and material aging. Therefore, the irrigation networks need to be enhanced by upgrading the main controlling water structure, especially on the Nile river. As a result of examining the structural integrity of the main Nile river barrages, the decision was made to replace many of the Nile river's defected barrages, with the exception of Zefta barrage, which was rehabilitated. The decision to rehabilitate Zefta barrage was chosen according to the structural status, affected area, and expected life after repair. Moreover, the decision was taken after comparing the cost of replacement and rehabilitation of the barrage. Heavy massive shear deformation stiffened structures are rarely tested by implementing such techniques contrary to elastic structures such as bridges. This study aims mainly to evaluate the structural status of Zefta barrage before and after recent rehabilitation using dynamic tests. This paper presents the collected structural data and test results of the Zefta barrage. The results indicate that the recent rehabilitation of the Zefta barrage significantly influences structural behaviour and barrage safety.

Keywords

• river nile
• barrage
• time histories
• rehabilitation
• dynamic tests