Importance

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Abstract

Hopper barge comprising one or more cargo spaces and a series of discharge openings in the bottom of the hold. Each opening comprises a bottom flap which in the downwards displaced position realizes a connection between the hold through the respective discharge opening to the water outside the barge. The barge further comprises a suction channel extending in the longitudinal direction of the barge whereby the bottom flaps each have at least one wall assuring the continuity of the channel in case the flaps are completely closed and connecting the channel to the hold when a flap is in the intermediate position, in which the discharge opening is still closed. Each flap comprises a pivotally attached hollow body with a wall opposite the pivot shaft, which wall extends concentrically in relation to said shaft. The shafts of all flaps extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the barge and two longitudinal edges of the barge construction positioned above each other form sealing and/or stop edges cooperating with each flap in the upper closed position and in the intermediate suctioning position.

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First Claim