Types of Dredging Equipment Used to Clear Waterways

Dredging is an important part of upkeeping waterways such as ponds, lakes and rivers to prevent a build-up of unhelpful nutrients and to allow boats to continue traversing their routes. Different types of dredging equipment are used depending on environmental needs, availability, soil composition and accuracy requirements.

Hydraulic Dredgers

Hydraulic centrifugal pumps provide the power behind this type of dredging equipment Spring TX. They are able to transport the sludge through pipes to a discharge site for removal. At times the pipes release onto a barge to be taken to a placement area. Suction and dustpan dredgers are two types of hydraulic equipment available.

Mechanical Dredgers

This type of dredger is similar to its land excavating counterpart. They dig, load and move excess materials with their scoops. Types of dredgers included in this group are bucket-ladder, backhoe, grab and dipper.

Hydrodynamic Dredgers

When the environment has limitations or needs to be protected, this type of dredger can be used. It loosens underwater materials and utilizes water currents, density gradients and bed slopes to move the dirt. This type of dredger is also called an environmental dredger. Water injection and ploughs, beams and rakes are a few different kinds of hydrodynamic dredgers.

Mechanical/Hydraulic Dredgers

This combination type of dredger is one of the most common ones used. It can handle a variety of environments and is used in maintenance and construction projects. In these areas you can find cutter suction dredgers, trailing suction hopper dredgers and bucket-wheel dredgers.

Experts in waterway construction and debris removal are able to determine the best type of dredger for the job. They take into consideration environmental needs while also recognizing the type of sediments that need to be removed. For the best outcome, the proper equipment needs to be utilized to ensure the environment is protected.