Dammtyp

Dammtyp is a term used in civil engineering to classify dams by their structural design and construction method. It describes how a dam resists hydrostatic pressure and interacts with its foundation and abutments, and it influences performance, cost, and site suitability. The concept covers a range of typologies developed to address different geological, hydrological, and economic conditions.

The main dam types are earthfill (embankment) dams, rockfill dams, concrete gravity dams, concrete arch dams, buttress dams, and composite or mixed forms. Earthfill dams are built from compacted earth and typically feature an impermeable core and seepage-control elements. Rockfill dams use rock with a low-permeability central section or clay core. Concrete gravity dams rely on their weight to resist overturning and sliding. Concrete arch dams transfer most of the load into the surrounding rock abutments through the arch action. Buttress dams use a framework of supports to reduce concrete volume while maintaining strength. Composite dams combine elements of these types to suit specific conditions.

Design selection depends on site characteristics such as foundation quality, material availability, dam height, reservoir capacity, seismicity, and seepage considerations, as well as economic and environmental factors. Earthfill and rockfill dams generally offer cost and flexibility advantages in suitable locations, while gravity and arch dams can be advantageous in narrow or strong canyon settings. Seepage control, drainage, and long-term stability are central concerns across all dam types.

Examples of well-known dam types include the Hoover Dam, a concrete arch-gravity dam on the Colorado River, and large gravity or arch-gravity structures found in other major reservoirs. In practice, many projects use a combination of approaches to optimize performance and safety.