Evaluation of the Bekhme Dam Site – NE Iraq using the Proposed Reduction System of the Rock Mass Strength

Abstract

The proposed Reduction System of the Rock Mass Strength RSRMS depends on the effects of discontinuities to reduce the strength of rocks. The reduction of rock mass strength happened when the properties of discontinuities are inferior. Most classification systems worldwide used are employing engineering parameters separately. The association of the related parameters and subsequent correlations are the base of the RSRMS, which forms part of the output of the present work. The RSRMS would be applied systematically in multiple stages to arrive at the final view of the site. The system can be applied at any engineering site that has rock mass varied from soil properties to intact mass. The application of RSRMS at the Bekhme Dam Site – NE Iraq has clarified the separation between the zones of different rock mass quality along the Bekhme Gorge, Spillway, and Access tunnels. The evaluations of rock mass matched the common worldwide used rock mass classification systems. The proposed dam site is classified as high quality by RSRMS, which is classified between 4-10 according to Q-System, high according to RMR, and 10-1 according to RMi. At the Spillway Tunnel, three small zones have very low grades at the distance from the SW entrance, two zones have a low grade, and two zones have a medium grade. The best qualities extend to the eight long zones and five zones are having very good quality.