Three Important Steps in the Operation of a Suction Dredger

Three Important Steps in Dredger Construction Operations

1. Pre-Construction Steps: Before commencing the dredging work, personnel are assigned to their respective posts, and the excitement vessel is launched to the construction area to measure water depth and observe the terrain. Once the water depth and construction conditions are favorable, the dredger begins preparing for positioning. If the dredger has not yet reached the construction site, the first step is to set up a positioning pile. To do so, a deeper water area is needed to accommodate the pile's vertical placement, and a service tug is used to tow the dredger to the pre-inspected water area for pile setting. The standby generator set is first started, followed by the activation of the emergency hydraulic pump to ensure the hydraulic system operates normally. The left and right lateral cables are then released and passed under the vessel to the root of the positioning pile, securing them in place. The bridge crane winch is used to lower the pile to the underwater depth. The lateral winch is then activated, slowly lowering the pile until it is upright. The left lateral winch is reeled in to set the left positioning pile, and the right lateral winch is reeled in to set the right positioning pile. Safety is a priority throughout the pile-setting process. The steel cables connected to the positioning pile's lifting cylinder are secured. The hydraulic cylinder is used to lift the pile to the required height in the construction area. The dredger is then moved to the construction site, and the pile is inserted into the mud to secure the dredger. The generator is started normally, and the lateral winches are used to throw out the positioning anchors.

2. Construction and Production: After the dredging ship commences its initial steps, the next phase is construction and production. The necessary conditions for construction and production include wind speeds not exceeding above level 6, moderate water flow, and attention to tidal areas when applicable. Once all construction conditions are met, normal production operations can commence. During production, it is crucial to monitor the lifting height of the pile. It is not permitted to insert two piles into the mud simultaneously. Pay attention to the engine and hydraulic system operations. Observe all gauges and be aware of the movements of any passing vessels.

3. Completion and Demobilization: After the current project is completed, the dredger can cease production. Prior to halting production, the dredger's pipelines must be flushed to ensure all water runs clear, allowing for the disassembly of the pipelines and the removal of the piles.