Numerical modeling of 3D-printed concrete dams designed for pumped-storage hydropower

Resumo

Pumped-storage hydropower (PSH), also called “the world ́s water battery”, represents one of the most

sustainable, economical and efficient solutions for energy storage, being an excellent alternative for non-
intermittent energy generation. This work aims to study new shapes of concrete dams for PSH using the

possibilities opened by 3D printing technology. Solid shapes and hollow shapes were modelled, with different
base and height dimensions. After selecting possible shapes, finite element modeling was performed using
DIANA-FEA, analyzing stability and stresses due to water pressure and dead load. Within the framework of this
analysis, concrete was considered as hardened in complete hydration. To verify the stress levels, a cracking index
was used, allowing the evaluation of the efficiency of the shapes. The results indicated that the use of 3D printing
can open several new possibilities for the design of concrete dams typically used for PSHs.