Hopper dredges are most effective when excavating loose, unconsolidated materials that form shoals following the completion of initial dredging.ĭuring operations, hopper dredges travel at a ground speed of 2 to 3 mph and can dredge in depths ranging from 10 feet to more than 80 feet, with dredging achieved via progressive traverses over an area. Hopper dredges are primarily used for maintenance dredging in exposed harbors and shipping channels, namely where traffic and operating conditions negate the use of stationary dredges. Small Class – Capacities of 500 to 2,000 cubic yards.

Medium Class – Capacities of 2,000 to 6,000 cubic yards.

Large Class – Capacities of 6,000 cubic yards or more.

Known for its excellent maneuverability in rough open seas, these dredges are classified according to their hopper capacity: Fitted with twin propellers and twin rudders, this ship is adequate for free-running speed and dredging against strong currents. Self-propelled seagoing ships ranging in length from 180 feet to 550 feet, hopper dredges feature molded hulls and the lines of typical ocean vessels, along with sizable sediment containers, large centrifugal dredge pumps, and other specialty equipment.

The physical environments of the dredging and disposal areas, along with the environments of the areas in between.

The quantities of material to be dredged.

The physical characteristics of material to be dredged.

When selecting dredging equipment for a project, any marine contractor, government agency, or port district must initially determine: – with a focus on application and operation – along with the advantages and limitations of each dredge type. What follows is an in-depth discussion of the equipment used for dredging projects throughout the U.S. The dredging of various bodies of water can also be utilized to reduce fish, wildlife, and people’s exposure to in-water contaminants. The process of removing loose to compacted sediments and debris from the bottom of lakes, rivers, and harbors is paramount to the maintenance and expansion of navigation channels. This technique is often used to keep waterways navigable. Dredging is an excavation activity or operation usually carried out at least partly underwater, in shallow seas or fresh water areas with the purpose of gathering up bottom sediments and disposing of them at a different location. Vintage engraving of a 19th Century Steam Dredger.

Small bucket line dredge