Contact Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis for Gate Pier of Pengshui Hydropower Station

Gate pier may cause damaged by construction joints under inappropriate pouring in Pengshui Hydropower Station. Based on nonlinear FEM, a contact algorithm is adopted to simulate interaction of construction joints between the overflow dam surface and gate pier. With different contact type and loading, the deformation and stress are analyzed comparatively in detail in order to evaluate the strength and safety of the gate pier. The results show that existence of construction joints reduces the stiffness of the structure, but satisfies the requirements of original reinforcement project, which have a little effect on safety of the gate pier.