Full-scale observations of the condition of structures of the Dneprodzerzhinsk lock

Conclusions

• 1. According to results of inspections and full-scale monitoring by workers from the scientific research division of the Ukrainian Institute for Designing of Hydrotechnical Construction, and also analysis of all of the data from full-scale observations during the period of the lock's operation, it is noted that safe and reliable operation of the structures is provided by the design and high-quality performance of construction and erection work, and also by the organization of inspection, which includes measures to conduct constant observations of the structure, with observance of the rules of technical operation.

• 2. Settlements of concrete structures occurred mostly evenly and did not exceed 7.6 mm during the observed period. Relative movements of adjacent sections in the plane of joints did not exceed 3.2 mm; a somewhat larger value of them was noted in sections adjacent to the ends of the lock. The seasonal amplitude of the width of opening of joints was 0.3–6.8 mm. The amplitude of seasonal displacements of the top of the walls with a full chamber is almost two times less than with an empty one.

• 3. To improve monitoring of the structures' condition, for example, in sections adjacent to the downstream and upstream ends of the lock with mooring, it is recommended that the operating personnel be equipped with elevation and gap-measuring marks, and it is also suggested that they follow the instructions for observations at hydrotechnical structures.