Dredging a cofferdam for a future pumping station
In a critical dredging operation near Paris, a 20-ton Amphibious Excavator (BAE200) was used to clear a cofferdam in a shallow basin connected to the Seine. This project was part of the construction of a new pumping station designed to regulate water levels in the city. Over a period of eight weeks, approximately 12,000 m³ of sand was dredged, reaching depths of 6 meters below the water level.
The confined space within the cofferdam required a dredging solution that could operate without a pontoon. The BAE200 Amphibious Excavator, equipped with side pontoons for additional buoyancy and 7-meter-long spud poles for anchoring, provided the necessary mobility and stability. The integration of a GPS/RTK dredging system ensured precise excavation, maximizing efficiency while maintaining accuracy.
After all anchors were drilled into place, remaining drill cuttings needed to be removed. A Bell 100 dredge pump, mounted on a small A-frame pontoon, was used for this purpose. The hydraulic power pack-driven pump, featuring a high-pressure water jet, loosened the material before suctioning it up for disposal onshore. This process ensured that the area was completely cleared, allowing for the smooth placement of underwater concrete.
Key features of the BAE200 Amphibious Excavator
✔ 20-ton capacity with side pontoons for additional stability
✔ 7-meter spud poles for secure anchoring in soft and unstable ground
✔ GPS/RTK dredging system for centimeter-accurate excavation
✔ Multifunctional and mobile, ideal for dredging in confined workspaces
This project highlights the efficiency of amphibious excavation technology in complex dredging environments, particularly where traditional methods are not feasible.
