An innovative gallery solution for an RCC dam

A significant advantage of the construction technique used in RCC dams is the rapid placement rates that can be achieved. However, historical data show that placement rates reduce considerably when the placement area reduces around galleries, or where the crest narrows. Because of schedule constraints, an innovative solution was developed to overcome this issue at Wyaralong dam by constructing the gallery using a rock-trenching machine following RCC placement. The end result is a quality gallery, requiring no second stage processes, saving both time and cost, and improving safety.