Physical and numerical modeling for understanding the hydraulic behaviour of Wedge-Shaped-Blocks spillways

Abstract

The technology of Wedge Shaped Blocks (WSB) for spillways had a slow development through decades but has proven its practical reliability. Ongoing additional research aims to complete the theoretical knowledge, improve current design criteria and make this technology available to practitioners as one more solution to consider when designing an embankment dam spillway. Here a summary is provided about recent physical and numerical modelling of WSB spillways performed by UPM and CIMNE.