Seepage through embankment dams

In the case of embankment dams, seepage takes place through the body of earthfill dams, as well as through the waterproof element of earth-rock dams. We can distinguish permissible kinds of seepage, which are not dangerous for the structure if appropriate measures have been taken, and impermissible ones, which are dangerous for the stability of the dam as a whole or for its particular elements. Permissible kinds of seepage are: 1. Stationary seepage flow through the body of earthfill dams and the earth foundation (Fig. 7.1a) or the waterproof element (for instance, the core) of earth-rock dams (Fig. 7.1b), as determined by permanent boundary conditions (3) and (4) (unchangeable in the course of time).