SIMULATION OF ARCH DAM - FOUNDATION INTERACTION WITH A NEW FRICTION INTERFACE ELEMENT

A new model for three-dimensional non-linear contact problems with irr eversible friction is presented here for the interaction between the r ock foundation and an arch dam structure. Based on the finite element method and load incremental theory, a constraint contact element with displacements and contact stresses as node parameters is developed. In this approach, four contact conditions are considered, i.e. fixed, sl ip, free and mixed. This model can simulate frictional slippage, decou pling and re-bonding of two bodies initially mating at a common interf ace or with any initial gaps. Furthermore boundary conditions for this element are discussed and treatment measures proposed. This method is shown to be effective and to have the advantage of being easily imple mented into standard finite element programs. Solutions are obtained f or a centrally loaded, simply supported composite beam and for an end- loaded elastica with initial gaps in regional contact with a rigid sur face. The results obtained for these examples are compared to the plan e stress solutions by contact friction analysis. As an application exa mple, Quanshui arch dam located in Ruyuan County of Guangdong Province in southern China is simulated with the new element.