Issues and challenges in construction of roller compacted concrete dam in Malaysia

Abstract

Rapid and economical construction are among numerous advantages of the construction of roller compacted concrete (RCC) dam compared to conventional dam. However, the complex process of RCC dam construction is facing difficulties due to lack of understanding and involvement from the local construction player since this type of construction in Malaysia is still new. Therefore, the objectives of this study is to examine the process of RCC dam construction and the issues and challenges during construction stage of RCC dam project in Malaysia. The study on the literature of RCC dam construction was performed to get the real view on the construction process of such project. The expert panel interview was conducted to get the view on RCC dam construction. Panel interview result was analysed and relate it to the literature to gather the process of RCC dam construction, and to further capture the issue and challenges of RCC dam construction. The results show that the main construction processes consists of determination of mix design, RCC production and RCC placement. Major issues and challenges in RCC dam construction was to place a high volume of RCC and to ensure the quality of RCC placement. Those issue and challenges during construction stage was overcome by controlling the temperature during RCC placement