Shallow draft navigation and sediment management

LDPL uses advance modeling to synchronize shallow draft loading with the tide. Our barges will be loaded with the maximum cargo load and depart the berth at high tide in order to extract the benefits of the tide effect and maximize the intake.

Our loading equipment is also engineered and selected to maintain an even keel vessel and limit the trimming effect, especially on projects with a rocky bottom. The dimensions of a shallow draft barge are carefully determined to meet all stringent requirements of the project, including the tide, type of ground, loading equipment, bathymetry, metocean data.

These dedicated vessels will be unrivalled assets in the long term. Shallow draft vessels have optimized dimensions and wider beam which allow them to take up to three times the normal capacity of similar carriers at a same draft. The large beam of shallow draft barge is optimal in transshipment operations, allowing the crane operator to easily secure and position the grab into the barge cargo compartment.

The shallow draft barges are specially designed to combine sea-river navigation. The ability to load an upstream river loading point and sail through the river broadens the capabilities of these vessels immensely. These vessels distinguish themselves from the traditional sets of tugs and barges by providing the extra maneuverability for coping with river bends to deliver coal to a transshipment site.

Shallow draft barge can be fitted with an azimuthal thruster for an autonomous berthing and unberthing operations as well as for navigation into narrow river sections. The faster sailing speed enhances the capacity of the supply chain, increasing its reliability in the supply of goods.