<p> The construction of the third set of lock sets is part of the expansion program of the Panama Canal. Aim of the program is to allow longer and higher loaded vessels to transit the existing canal.</p><p> The main components of the expansion program are:</p><ul><li> <p> Project of the third set of locks, the most important part of the program and topic of the present paper. Two lock complexes of three levels with water saving basins are built at each ocean side – one at Atlantic and the other one at Pacific side.</p></li><li> <p> Excavation of access canals</p></li><li> <p> Widening and deepening of access canals and elevation of Gatun Lake water level</p></li></ul>

<p> The third set of lock complexes (one complex at Atlantic site, the other one at Pacific site), were designed to permit Post-Panamax vessels to transit from ocean level to 27m higher Gatun level vice versa.</p><p> Governing hydraulic design criteria was to reduce lockage time making usage of water saving basins. Structural design was carried out taking into account usual, unusual and extreme load conditions.</p><p> Construction of both complexes is still going on, and, in order to fulfill construction site schedule, 10 to 15 lifts of a daily concrete volume between 3.000 and 5.000m3 are poured at each site for concreting independent reinforced monoliths.</p>