Canals formed the backbone of transport around the country during the industrial revolution in the mid 1800’s. Today the canals are still used, however instead of being used for industrial use, they are mainly used for tourism and pleasure craft.
Locks are used within canals in order for vessels to move up and down gradients. Some commercial harbours also utilise lock gates in order to keep vessels afloat at low tide.
Lock gates operate through the movement of water from the high pressure side to the low pressure side through a valve, called a sluice. These sluices are often mounted onto the loch gate door, but they can also be mounted into the side wall of the loch.
The lock gate and its components are subject to degradation, corrosion and wear over time. If this gets too bad the gate and sluices could fail to seal or operate correctly.
Originally, lock gate doors were constructed of timber such as oak, whilst modern gates are generally constructed from steel. However, many loch gates are refurbished or replaced using traditional materials and construction methods. The cast iron and steel fittings are often able to be reused.
Loch gates need to be strong to resist the pressure put against them. This makes them heavy and even small ones can weigh as much as 15 tonnes.
Commercial & Specialised Diving are often called upon to inspect and refurbish lock gates and sluices.
Lock gates are dangerous to inspect underwater using divers as the pressure differences on either side of the gate need to be taken into account. However, Commercial & Specialised Diving has the skills and expertise required to work on lock gates safely, and have an outstanding safety track record.
The loch gate is inspected thoroughly. If any parts are found to be defective they can be removed and replaced.
Commercial & Specialised Diving are often called upon to return to a loch after our professional survey to conduct remedial works highlighted.
Commercial & Specialised Diving operate their services nationwide allowing inspection and refurbishment work to be carried out anywhere in the country.
Commercial & Specialised Diving have over 20 years’ experience in the civil engineering and marine sectors. Contact our knowledgeable sales to team to find out more at sales@specialised-diving.co.uk or 01202 580007.