Author(s): John H. . Rand

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Abstract: A variety of techniques have been developed in the past to prevent ice from interfering with navigation lock operations. Ice, either broken and floating or frozen in place, can affect the use of the upper lock approach, the lock chamber, the gates and machinery, and the floating mooring bitts. Wind, current, tow traffic, and frozen-in-place ice fill the locks with ice, hampering operations. Winter navigation and lock operations on the inland waterway are affected by ice. Existing methods for handling ice problems have met with various degrees of success. The options available to lock operators include ice lockages, increased tow entrance speeds, use of emergency bulkheads as spillways, air bubblers, barges as deflectors, gate fanning, steam applications, compressed air lines, pike poles, chipping, electric heaters, restricted tow width, coatings, hot water applications, towboat assistance to break ice or induce flow, and modification or cessation of gate and lock operations. This article describes the best technique developed that has been effectively demonstrated at several navigation locks in the United States. The system consists of an improved bubbler system that combines three air manifolds at various locations within the lock to control and move the ice, allowing normal lock operations even in the most severe winter conditions.

DOI:

Year: 1988