spillväg

Spillväg is a Swedish term that translates to "spillway" in English. It refers to a structure designed to provide a controlled release of excess water from a reservoir, dam, or canal. Spillways are essential safety features that prevent water levels from rising too high and potentially overtopping or damaging the main structure.

There are several types of spillways, including overflow spillways, which allow water to flow freely over the crest of the dam, and gated spillways, which use mechanical gates to control the release of water. Other types include chute spillways, which direct water down a steep channel, and side channel spillways, which divert water away from the main structure.

The primary function of a spillway is to manage floodwaters and prevent catastrophic failure of the containing structure. By releasing excess water, spillways protect downstream communities and ecosystems from the destructive force of uncontrolled flooding. They are a critical component of dam safety and water resource management. The design and capacity of a spillway are determined by factors such as the expected maximum inflow, the structural integrity of the dam, and the potential downstream impact of a release.