Three-Dimensional Visualization Model of the Eagle Mountain Dam Using Cone Penetration Test Data Based on Geostatistics

Hydraulic filling dams provides high variability in soil properties. Interpretation of variation of soil profile along a hydraulic fill dam is challenging due to the complexity involved with variability of materials deposited. In this research, an attempt was performed using geostatistical theory to interpret the variation of soil properties by constructing a three-dimensional visualization model for a hydraulic fill dam. Eagle Mountain Lake Dam located in Fort Worth, Texas, constructed using hydraulic filling and wetted and rolled procedure was considered for performing the analysis. Cone penetration tests (CPT) were conducted along the crest and toe of the dam and the results showed that the soil properties change dramatically from one location to another. Data collected was interpolated using ordinary Kriging that is methodology based on Geostatistics. The Earth Volumetric Studio and Mining Visualization System (EVS & MVS) software by C-Tech was used to perform the interpolation. A more reliable soil characterization is developed and a three-dimensional model of soil properties within the dam is presented.