Remodelling labyrinth weir geometry to increase performance

Flood control remains a major concern for dam designers and operators. This concern has grown in recent decades as a result of climate change and the development of new methods for extreme flood estimation, which have shown the inadequacy of a significant number of spillways to evacuate increased extreme floods. Consequently, dam operators are seeking solutions that can increase the capacity of existing spillways and provide more efficient spillways for new dams. One possible solution is the remodelling of the existing spillway in non-rectilinear form and the adoption of this type of spillway for new dams. This article presents some standard labyrinth weir shape enhancements, which can have a positive impact on economic and hydraulic performance.