Dredge Plant Management Program - Port of Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Category:

Operating Procedures

Description:

The Port of Rotterdam has developed a real-time management program for pieces of dredging

plant working in Rotterdam Harbor. The system includes real-time updates of dredge operating

systems, production rate, location, draghead settings, bin operations, etc., and incorporates the

latest survey data in an interactive computer-based system. The system is run from a central

office in the port that allows the port managers to give real-time directions to dredge operations.

The port enters into 5-year contracts with dredging companies. Payment is by hopper density, not

tons dry solids. The Port employs silt traps to increase efficiency and has done extensive studies

to identify contaminated versus clean sediments. Clean sediments are placed back into the North

Sea, with contaminated sediments going to a confined disposal site. The Port has a real-time

silent inspector type system working. The system is completely integrated with remote links so

that real-time review of dredging operations can take place.

Reviewer:

B. Hopman

Company / Organization(s):

Projects Completed:

Rotterdam Harbor

Location:

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Project Contact:

Ongoing

Information Sources:

Interviews:

Interviewee:

J.W. Zwakhals, Manager Dredging Division

Interviewer:

Neil McLellan, Bob Hopman

Interview Date:

7/22/98

Interview Location:

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Field Investigations: Location:

Rotterdam Harbor

Date:

7/22/98

Photos:

Yes

Photo Location:

Hartman Consulting Corporation, Bellevue, WA

Chapter 5 Other Technologies Reviewed