The Structural Modelling and Analysis Division (SMA) has been pivotal in advancing structural analysis within hydroelectric projects and played a crucial role in national service creating structural models for significant Indian projects. From dams to penstocks and surge tanks, these models facilitated comprehensive analysis, aiding project authorities in decision-making processes. The division is specialized in studying critical components of water conductor systems, offering invaluable insights through in-situ strain measurements. The division utilizes advanced Finite Element Method (FEM) software to conduct stress and stability analyses, particularly focusing on gravity dams.

The division also utilizes strain gauge technology and mathematical modeling, for carrying out comprehensive studies throughout various phases of hydroelectric projects, from design and execution to rehabilitation.

Broad areas of expertise

• Assessment of structural adequacy of design of gravity dams during pre & post construction stages.
• Long term structural health monitoring by analysis and interpretation of instrumentation data.
• Structural assessment of water conductor system, gates & bridges by conducting in-situ strain measurement.

Significant Contributions

• Division has conducted around 70 In-situ strain measurements of penstocks, bifurcations of pan India a project which is unique and rare phenomenon.
• Division has devised a systematic methodology of predicting the structural health of dams and successfully used this method for Indira Sagar Project for 25 years. This method extended to other projects also.
• The study of structural health monitoring using dam instrumentation data in the first instance only brought out the excess pressure built up towards downstream side of Indira Sagar Dam which is not desirable from the safety point of view. This study also brought out the importance of regular cleaning of relief holes in effecting in the reduction of uplift pressure built up.
• The verification of structural design adequacy of penstock bifurcation of Natpha Jhakri Project using structural model studies brought out the inadequacy of design in relieving external pressure case & modification of ring girder.
• The study of 3D stress analysis by FEM of one penstock bifurcation of Arun 3 Project brought out the inadequacy of design in relieving external pressure & helped to validate the design and finalization of the liner, ring girder & sickle plate thickness.
• Analysis and interpretation of Dam instrumentation data of Polavaram Project helped to setup a standard long term monitoring of structural health of dam using dam instrumentation data.
• 2D/3D Stress analysis of existing/distressed dams like Hirakud, Masanjoore, and Karanja using present day material properties by incorporating structural deficiencies helped dam authorities to take up remedial measures.
• 2D Stress analysis of Temghar Dam helped to ascertain the structural health before and after repair along with identifying safe water level during repairing.
• 2D stress analysis of 3 blocks of SSNNL Dam helped project authorities the effect of variable foundation properties & analyzing the dam instrumentation data baseline.