One of the functions of a dam is that of a flood control structure. Dams control flood waters by using spillways which allow the water to flow over or through the dam in a controlled manner that does not effect the structural integrity of the dam.
Spillways are designed to allow water to pass from the upstream or reservoir side of the dam to the downstream side of the dam. They are designed with 3 main categories in mind; Primary spillways are used for normal flow of water over or through the dam, Auxiliary spillways allow additional flow when the primary is at full capacity , and emergency spillways are designed for use in less frequent occurring emergency conditions.
Types of dam spillways amongst others are overflow and chute spillways.
Overflow spillways are commonly found in concrete constructed dams. They allow water to flow over the top of them as their name suggests. They are not recommended for use in an eartern dam as they cause major erosion that will effect the structural integrity of the dam.
Chute spillways are a steep man made concrete open pipe that transfers the water directly from the reservoir behind the dam to the river in the valley.
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