In light of the different variances of friction against shearing and cohesion

a new method based on partial coefficient is proposed to apply to gravity dam stability analysis. And the corresponding stability check formula is derived. This method is based on reliability idea

and the dam final stability coefficient dam of is defined by the strength reserve coefficient or over loading coefficient at limit equilibrium state. From gradual failure progress and failure mechanism of dam foundation

further discussion is performed that several key problems should be given attention and how to define safety coefficient criterion for gravity dam stability analysis against sliding in foundation with nonlinear FEM. The research results show that stress distribution on foundation surface for gravity dams and deformation characteristic of foundation rock had an important influence on safety coefficient. The computation results of actual projects show that

compared with the conventional rigid limited balance method

safety coefficient criterion of partial coefficient FEM tends to be on the low side.