Numerical simulation and experimental research of dynamic experimental model of high arch dam with air-cushion isolation

Based on the theoretical model of dam-foundation interaction and the fluid-gas-solid coupling, the 3D FEM numerical simulation has been carried out for the experimental model of Jinping high arch dam with consideration of air-cushion isolation. According to the similarity principle of dynamic experiment and the uniaxial compressive strength tests as well as the ultrasonic detection, the basic physical parameters of the experimental model are obtained, which could guarantee the basic dynamic similarity of experimental model. To achieve the goal of the isolated effect of the whole air-cushion, the engineering plastics acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS for short) is adopted for the air-cushion, which is used for covering on the upstream of the dam model evenly. The experimental and numerical results show that the hydrodynamic pressure is reduced by air-cushion significantly. Compared to the case without air-cushion, the hydrodynamic pressure can be reduced for more than 70%. The feasibility and the implying engineering value of the air-cushion isolation have been demonstrated through the results of numerical simulation and experimental research.