In the heart of Indonesia, a critical challenge in dam construction is unfolding, one that could reshape how we approach infrastructure projects in the energy sector. Wildan Faris Alamudi, a researcher from the Civil Engineering Department at Universitas Jember, has been delving into the stability of replacement materials used in the Meninting Dam, a project fraught with the scarcity of traditional embankment materials. His findings, published in ‘Rekayasa Sipil’ (Civil Engineering), could have far-reaching implications for the stability and longevity of dams worldwide.
The Meninting Dam project faces a significant hurdle: the lack of suitable embankment materials in the immediate vicinity. This scarcity has led to the use of alternative materials, raising concerns about the dam’s structural integrity. Alamudi’s research aims to address these concerns by evaluating the safety and stability of these replacement materials under various conditions.
Alamudi’s study involved a comprehensive analysis of the replacement materials’ physical and mechanical properties. “We conducted physical tests to determine the soil’s moisture content, specific gravity, and plasticity index,” Alamudi explains. “Mechanical tests were also performed to assess the soil’s movement, strength, stiffness, and deformation.” This meticulous approach ensures that every aspect of the soil’s behavior is understood, providing a robust foundation for further analysis.
One of the key findings of Alamudi’s research is the safety factor of the dam’s slopes under different seismic conditions. The safety factor, a critical measure of a slope’s stability, was found to be well above the acceptable thresholds. “The safety factor for the upstream slope without an earthquake is 3.463, and even under the most severe earthquake conditions (MDE), it remains above 1.5,” Alamudi notes. This reassuring data suggests that the replacement materials can withstand significant seismic activity, a crucial consideration for regions prone to earthquakes.
The research also delved into the seepage capacity and uplift force, both of which are vital for the dam’s long-term stability. The seepage capacity, which measures the rate at which water can flow through the dam, was found to be well within safe limits. “The seepage capacity downstream of the dam is 4,529 x 10-5 m3- seconds, which is significantly below the safety threshold of 0.0127 m3- seconds,” Alamudi states. This finding is particularly important for the energy sector, as it ensures that the dam can maintain its structural integrity and operational efficiency over time.
The uplift force, which can potentially destabilize the dam, was also analyzed. The results showed an uplift value of 10.58 t/m2 on every equipotential, indicating that the replacement materials can effectively manage the forces exerted by water pressure.
Alamudi’s research is a testament to the importance of innovative solutions in the face of material scarcity. By thoroughly evaluating the replacement materials, he has provided a roadmap for future dam construction projects that may face similar challenges. This work not only ensures the safety and stability of the Meninting Dam but also paves the way for more sustainable and resilient infrastructure in the energy sector.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for reliable and efficient infrastructure becomes increasingly paramount. Alamudi’s findings, published in ‘Rekayasa Sipil’ (Civil Engineering), offer a glimpse into the future of dam construction, where innovative materials and rigorous analysis can overcome even the most daunting challenges. This research could shape future developments in the field, encouraging engineers and researchers to explore new materials and methodologies that enhance the stability and longevity of dams.
