Types of Dams
Dams are categorized based on various factors including their structure, construction materials, and primary functions. Let’s see different types of dam.
1. Hydroelectric Dams:
These Dams can generate electricity by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy with the help of turbines which can generally rotate and provide electricity. These dams can generally stored potential energy which can further converted into mechanical energy. Also These dams are a major energy source of power generation through water. Using of water for power generation can reduce the use of fossil fuels that enhanced the green house gases. The turbines in these plant can rotate and generate electricity.
2. Arch Dams:
They are differentiated by their curved shape, which helps to distribute the force of water. The special arch shape allows these dams to control the horizontal force of water, that minimize the amount of material required for construction. They are mainly made of concrete. The height of these dams can be measured from its bottom to the top of the dam. These dams are generally constructed through three ways which are In-situ concrete construction, precast concrete elements, or a combination of both
3. Gravity Dams:
These dams are built using concrete or masonry which rely on their own weight to resist the horizontal force of water. They require a stable foundation which is composed of solid bedrock or stable soil that support the weight of the structure. They prevents water from flowing over the top of the dam. These dams are used for water storage, flood control, and irrigation system etc.
4. Embankment dams:
They are also known as earth dams. There structures are built using rock, or other fill materials to control the flow of water. It requires a fixed and strong base to give support of weight of the structure. These are made up of many layers With fill materials allowing each layer to settle before adding the next.
Largest Dam in the World
The largest dam in the world is The Kariba dam which is a hydroelectric dam situated between Zambia and Zimbabwe. There are many Dam across the world which give a natural view of nature. The Kariba dam is not only the art of engineering but also a symbol of unity. Kariba Dam manages the flow of the Zambezi River, that controls floods in the rainy season. As this Dam is completed in 1959.
In this article, We know the unforgotten story of Kariba Dam, exploring its key features, construction and major dams in India and world.
Table of Content
- Top 5 Largest Dam In The World
- Largest Dam In The World – Overview
- Kariba Dam
- Key Features
- Construction Challenges
- What is the Dam?
- Types of Dams
- Major Dams in India
- Major Dams in World
- Conclusion
- FAQs – Largest Dam In The World