A simple design method for concrete fuse blocks at small dam spillways

Abstract

Concrete fuse blocks are a promising solution for enhancing small dam safety while increasing their storage capacity. Developed by the NGO HydroCoop, this technology addresses critical needs in regions where small dams face significant challenges. While the development of a practical and safe design method is required to facilitate the large scale implementation of fuse blocks, such a method is currently lacking. Considering systematic experimental tests at the laboratory scale, an analytical equation to predict fuse block tilting head is developed and validated. It is then used to define a standard block geometry. A simple table providing, without calculation, a safe design of fuse blocks for every dam height configuration is finally derived.