Panama Canal expansion project – design and construction of lock complexes

Abstract

<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>