Optimisation and modernisation work on the Sotiel Olivargas Dam in Huelva


Optimisation and modernisation work on the Sotiel Olivargas Dam in Huelva

Refurbishment and restoration of the Sotiel Olivargas Dam in Huelva to optimise the existing infrastructure and bring the service into operation.

Client:
Ministry of the Environment and Territorial Organisation, Huelva Territorial Delegation
Location:
Huelva
Period:
November 2018 – June 2021
Type of work:
Hydraulic Infrastructures
Typology:
Reservoirs and dams
Budget:
€4,042,828 (excluding VAT)
In compliance with the Technical Regulations on the Safety of Dams and Reservoirs (RTSPE), a series of actions have been carried out to optimise the Sotiel Olivargas Dam, located in Almonaster La Real. The refurbishment and restoration works allow the infrastructure to be put into service, guaranteeing water resources to the area and minimising current losses.
 
The preliminary works consisted of site marking, cleaning, temporary tunnel lighting and power installations, demolition, removal of scrap metal and decommissioned equipment, and dewatering of the tunnels.  
 
Subsequently, a foundation waterproofing screen and injection of the drains was carried out. Each of the transverse joints of the dam was injected or re-injected as necessary. A new drainage network was opened and the skin drains were recovered. 
 
The four Bureau gates were replaced and two Howell Bunger valves were installed. In addition, a reduced model of the dam is being tested with the refurbishment of the spillway and downstream face.
 
The coronation building has been refurbished as an emergency room and a new storage building has been constructed with restored or newly installed elements.
 
Finally, work was carried out to clean the downstream receiving channel, the access road to the dam was upgraded and a new medium and low-voltage power line was installed. The installation of auscultation and automation equipment, the definition and demarcation of the reservoir and the implementation of the Emergency Plan are also noteworthy.
 
 
DETAILS

Technical data

Execution period
24 months
 
Waterproofing and drainage
3,447 m drilling in concrete and rock.
 
Electricity and lighting 
3,000 m of 15/20 kV medium-voltage overhead line to supply the dam.
 
Pavement

22,225 m² of asphalt agglomerate surface on the access road to the dam.
 
Downstream flow
567 m³ of 500-1,000 kg stone riprap for flow protection.
 
Metal carpentry 
620 m of manufacture and assembly of 1 m high metal railing.
 
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