Hydraulic Dredging

 

We will briefly discuss some of the mechanical methods that are and have been used for dredging. In this blog, we’re going to explore the two major dredging types, as well as explain a few different equipment types utilized in each. Most commonly, suction dredges are compact setups, as small teams of gold prospectors use them for personal prospecting and gold extraction. Grab or clamshell dredgers are typically utilized for deep depth dredging, as they can reach extremely deep depths - mechanical dredging.

At this point, you’re probably wondering what dredging companies do with the material that is contaminated. One of the best uses for contaminated sediment is to actually turn it into useful objects. Over time, ponds tend to lose their holding capacity because of sediment accumulation, usually a result of erosion. The clam shell dredges drop their bucket into the material and then extract what they collect and dump it onto a barge or land, before repeating the process. One of the added benefits of hydraulic dredging includes the direct transfer of materials to the processing plant. This saves both time and money, eliminating the need for additional manpower and double handling of the material - mechanical dredge.

In the realm of deep-depth dredging, grab or clamshell dredgers stand out for their proficiency. Pump selection must consider flow rate, pressure capability, and expected head loss due to friction and elevation. Undersized pumps will struggle with high-resistance pipelines, while oversized pumps may consume excess fuel or damage the system through cavitation. Flexible discharge piping, including HDPE hoses and modular float systems, allows for pipeline routing over water, land, or around obstacles without compromising flow integrity. This flexibility supports more efficient layout and discharge strategies for various site conditions.

Wear is another significant concern, particularly when working with abrasive materials such as sand, gravel, or coal fines. Over time, the internal surfaces of hydraulic dredging equipment especially the pump casing, impellers, and pipeline elbows—can erode, reducing efficiency and increasing the risk of failure.  Selecting wear-resistant materials and scheduling regular inspections are critical maintenance strategies. One of the most common issues is clogging within the suction line or discharge pipeline. For more information, please visit our site https://www.Pacificmaritimegroup.com/