Numerical 3D finite element (FE) analyses allows the engineers to perform more accurate and detailed analyses, compared to the traditional design methods. Today, FE-analyses are a common tool for assessment, design etc. of concrete dams. However, there are not only positive aspects of this development. These numerical analyses require a solid theoretical background of the applicability of methods, both from the FE-engineer performing the analyses but also for the reviewers of the results. In addition, the results obtained requires careful interpretation with respect to the underlying assumptions and their practical relevance.

The intention of this report is to serve as a guideline for engineers performing finite element (FE) analyses of the structural (mechanical) behaviour of concrete dams.

In this report, the different aspects that a FE-engineers are faced when defining models and analysing concrete dams have been described such as

• When may FE analyses be required and examples of what these models be used for
• Definition of the geometrical model 
• Definition of the element discretization 
• Definition of the material behaviour
• Definition of boundary conditions and constraints
• Definition of static, environmental (temperature and moisture) and dynamic (seismic) loads 
• Solver solution techniques
• Evaluation and verification of the results
• Safety formats

In the following chapters, recommendations regarding modelling aspects, material properties etc. are given. In addition, one chapter also contains practical modelling tips for some common cases where for instance suggestions to extract sectional forces, define push-over analyses etc. are given.

The intention of this report is that it is unrelated to the choice of software used. The reason for this is that the guideline should be able to use regardless of choice of finite element software. The methodology given in this report is defined in general terms, and could thereby be implemented in most FE codes.