Hydraulic Structures: Designing with RCC and Soil-Cement

Hydraulic structures, such as dams, spillways, and grade control structures, are now often designed utilizing roller compacted concrete (RCC) and soil-cement. Designing structures with these materials began before the 1980s and is now an often selected alternative because of its in-service proven performance and economics. he economic advantage RCC and soil-cement has over other materials is because the construction methods that are employed result in shorter construction schedules. RCC and soil-cement are placed using equipment typical of earth moving operations which can achieve high production rates. Shorter construction schedules minimize the risks associated with construction in a flood plain environment and therefore allows the contractor to reduce contingency costs for potential flood damages. RCC and soil-cement water resources structures have now been in service for over 20 years and have shown exceptional durability in severe climates and during significant flood events. RCC is chosen as the principal material when high velocities are expected or heavy bed loads are likely because it is very resistant to abrasion. Soil-cement is the material of choice when infrequent moderate velocity flood flows are expected for protection of riverbanks and for grade control structures.