American Hydraulic Dredges

Dredging is required on all sorts of waterways, each with individual types of machines suited to its peculiar needs. The dustpan type is used on inland waterways for maximum efficiency in excavating material that is redeposited by natural stream action in more suitable areas. Then there is the sea-going hopper dredge, operating in harbors and deep channels to dig material, deposit it in the vessel itself, and convey it to deep water for dumping. A third main type is the cutterhead pipeline dredge, designed primarily for construction of original channels or hydraulic fills; as its name implies, it also cuts and economically transports immense volumes by pumping. All these types were developed by experience over many years, as regards general principles and perfection of detail. Examples of modern units evidence major American engineering achievements—in design, construction, and operation.