lock gate
Quick Summary
In civil engineering, a lock gate is a movable barrier used to control the passage of water through a channel or sluice. Locks, typically found in canals or rivers, are enclosures with gates at each end that allow boats to be raised or lowered between different water levels.12
When closed, lock gates meet at an upstream-pointing obtuse angle to withstand water pressure. They swing into recesses in the lock walls when opened. Gates also regulate water flow from reservoirs and dams. Common types include leaf gates (swinging or sliding), radial gates (lifting clear of water), and rolling gates (rolling up a dam's face). The most common design for lock gates are miter gates, which consist of two leaves that meet at the lock's axis, forming a V shape pointing upstream. These gates must be strong enough to handle the water pressure difference between adjacent water levels.123
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canals and inland waterwaysMedieval revivalIn the 15th century the lock-gate system was much improved with the addition of paddles to control the flow of water in and out of the lock chamber through sluices in the gates or sides of the lock.
Read MoreIn the 15th century the lock-gate system was much improved with the addition of paddles to control the flow of water in and out of the lock chamber through sluices in the gates or sides of the lock.
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canals and inland waterwaysLock gatesMovable gates must be strong enough to withstand the water pressure arising from the level difference between adjacent pounds. The most generally used are miter gates consisting of two leaves, the combined lengths of which exceed the lock width by about 10 percent.…
Read MoreMovable gates must be strong enough to withstand the water pressure arising from the level difference between adjacent pounds. The most generally used are miter gates consisting of two leaves, the combined lengths of which exceed the lock width by about 10 percent.…
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canals and inland waterwaysWaterway maintenanceLock gate renewal is normally planned to ensure that a predetermined number of gates are replaced annually; special vessels equipped with heavy lifting tackle are needed for transport and site handling.
Read MoreLock gate renewal is normally planned to ensure that a predetermined number of gates are replaced annually; special vessels equipped with heavy lifting tackle are needed for transport and site handling.
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