Structural Evaluation of Riveted Spillway Gates

Abstract : Guidelines are presented for structural inspection and evaluation of riveted spillway gates. An overview of the structural systems of most common types of spillway gates is also provided along with identification of critical areas that may be subject to degradation from corrosion and/or fatigue damage for each type of gate. Observations from site inspections at four locks and dams are included. The principal factors contributing to corrosion and fatigue degradation of spillway gates are presented. Guidelines are also provided for the evaluation of corrosion and fatigue damage. A structural inspection and evaluation procedure is outlined. The procedure consists of four components: preinspection assessment, inspection, assessment and recommendations for inspection maintenance and repair. For each component, the critical question to be addressed and the factors that must be considered are provided. Critical areas and techniques for inspection and reporting are discussed along with evaluation procedures. Two example inspections and evaluations are provided to illustrate the procedures.