A New Optimal Sensor Location Method for Double-curvature Arch Dams: A Comparison with the Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC)

Abstract

Determining the optimal location of sensors in order to identify modal parameters in large structures such as dams is one of the most important and widely used topics in damage detection and health monitoring of structures. In this research, the modal parameters including the natural frequency and mode shape of two arched concrete dams have been calculated using the finite element method for healthy and damaged dams. The reduction of the elastic modulus of concrete in different parts and percentages has been used as the degree of damage. Then, using the modal confidence criterion (MAC) method, the optimal location of the sensors is determined, then the results of this method are compared with the new method. The results show that in both dams, the new method matches the MAC method with 90% accuracy. This new method is a fast and suitable measure to determine the optimal location of sensors in arched concrete dams.