The design of radial gates: a case study of the Solbergfoss dam, Norway

In many countries with significant hydropower generation, most of the hydropower potential has been exploited for several decades and new development has declined. As a result, many spillway gate solutions around the world, both in refurbishment projects and new dams, make use of outdated design practice. In Norway, the development of new hydropower schemes has continued, except for a period of reduced activity in the 1990s. This article highlights some improvements achieved in the design and operation of radial spillway gates, illustrated by examples from the spillway at the Solbergfoss hydropower plant.