Permeation grouting in Chelburn Valley. Issue 1 (17th January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Richardson, Jennifer
• Is Part Of: Dams and reservoirs. Volume 29:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 40
• Publication Date: 2019-01-17
• Subjects: dams, barrages & reservoirs -- drilling & drillholes -- grouting; Dams -- Periodicals; Reservoirs -- Periodicals; 627.8
• DOI: 10.1680/jdare.18.00046
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1368-1494

Abstract

Abstract : Upper Chelburn Impounding Reservoir is situated within Chelburn Valley, located approximately 2 km north of Littleborough in Rochdale, England. Upper Chelburn is formed by two embankments with the north embankment being the main embankment containing the draw-off and overflow facilities. The embankment is homogenous, founded on old landslide deposits, glacial clay material and weathered bedrock. The dam has a history of leakage issues, in particular the right-hand abutment, which has resulted in a number of remediation works. In 2013 United Utilities undertook an internal erosion assessment for the dam which identified an intolerable risk of failure by contact erosion between the embankment and the cohesionless soil foundation. In response, permeation grouting remedial works were completed in 2017, targeting this cohesionless soil foundation zone. While supervising the construction works a number of issues were encountered, including the requirement for high quantities of grout at numerous locations and the potential ineffectiveness of a historically grouted zone. In order to mitigate these issues, effective management of safety, health and environment, quality, programme, contractor management, cost and design was required by the supervisor (author) throughout the works. The supervisor applied a comprehensive understanding and interpretation of the ground model when looking at the required grout zone.