Products Dredging Equipment Environmental Dredge

Environmental Dredge

The EDDY Pump Environmental Dredge is a high-production hydraulic dredge engineered for precision environmental dredging and low turbidity sediment removal. Built around a 6-inch heavy-duty, high-chrome EDDY Pump rated at 400 HP, the system delivers 300 to 400 cubic yards per hour while handling abrasive solids without clogging. The spud ladder dredge can reach depths of up to 27 feet and features a rotating suction head for controlled excavation. Dual RTK GPS, automated spud controls, and real-time flow monitoring support accurate environmental remediation, municipal dredging, and industrial sediment removal projects.

Environmental dredge in operation

Environmental Dredging System Advantages

  • 6-inch heavy-duty high chrome EDDY Pump rated at 400 HP, engineered for high efficiency dredge pump performance in abrasive and debris-laden sediment
  • Production capacity of 300 to 400 cubic yards per hour for industrial sediment removal and environmental remediation dredging
  • Maximum digging depth of 27 feet, suitable for lake dredging, river dredging, reservoirs, canals, and wastewater lagoons
  • Spud ladder dredge configuration with rotating suction head and cutting teeth for controlled, low turbidity dredging
Specialized dredging vessel removing underwater sediment
  • Dual RTK GPS providing sub-centimeter positioning accuracy for precision dredging equipment and regulated projects
  • Automated spud height and carriage travel sensors enabling consistent dredge advance and stable operation
  • Integrated 8-inch magnetometer-type flowmeter for real-time monitoring of slurry flow and system efficiency
  • 40 HP hydraulic power unit supporting ladder swing winches, head articulation, knife gates, and deck equipment
  • Two-level control system with joystick-enabled pilot chair, an HMI screen, and dredging management software to support production reporting and positioning.
  • Modular, non-permit transportable design allowing full mobilization and setup within one day for rapid deployment

Gallery

Environmental Dredge in Action

Technical Specifications

Mechanical dredge clearing sediment from rivers and seabeds

Pump, Dredging Performance, and Excavation System

  • Pump type: 6-inch HDX heavy-duty high chrome EDDY Pump
  • Pump power: 400 HP
  • Production capacity: 300 to 400 cubic yards per hour
  • Pump design: non-clog dredge pump for abrasive, high-solids slurry
  • Suction system: rotating suction head with cutting teeth, configurable for terrain following
  • Dredge type: spud ladder environmental dredge
  • Maximum digging depth: 27 feet
  • Dredge height: 19 feet
  • Spud height: 40 feet
Mechanical dredge clearing sediment from rivers and seabeds
Hydraulic cutter suction dredger excavating sediment

Dimensions, Weight, and Transport

  • Overall weight (approximate): 150,000 lbs
  • Typical assembled length: 90 feet
  • Assembled width: 22 feet 6 inches
  • All components are designed for non-permit over-road transport
  • Typical mobilization and setup time: one day
HAWK VISION RTK GPS dredge system for real-time precision positioning in excavation and dredging

Positioning, Sensors, and Monitoring

  • Dual RTK GPS providing centimeter-level positioning, depending on site conditions and precise dredge head and vessel heading
  • Spud height and carriage travel sensors enabling automated spud controls
  • 8-inch magnetometer type flowmeter for real-time slurry flow measurement
  • Generator and main pump electrical load monitoring in amps
HAWK VISION RTK GPS dredge system for real-time precision positioning in excavation and dredging
Hydraulic systems and operator controls on environmental dredge with 40 HP power unit

Hydraulic Systems and Operator Controls

  • Hydraulic power unit rated at 40 HP
  • Hydraulic functions include ladder swing winches, suction-head articulation, knife gates, and deck equipment.
  • Second-floor pilot house with joystick-enabled operator chair and auxiliary lever panel
  • HMI screen for dredge monitoring and operational settings
  • PC-based HYPACK and DREDGEPACK software for dredging management and positioning
  • Additional control stations are located in the lower equipment room
Environmental dredge power system with 350 kW generator, 8‑inch discharge, and optional boosters

Power, Discharge, and Optional Enhancements

  • Minimum required power: 350 kW marine generator
  • Discharge pipeline: 8-inch HDPE pipeline
  • Optional booster pump for long discharge distances
  • An optional in situ radioactive densitometer for real-time slurry density measurement
Environmental dredge power system with 350 kW generator, 8‑inch discharge, and optional boosters
HD6000 heavy duty slurry pump curve

EDDY Pump –Environmental Dredge – Pump Curve

PUMP CURVE

The pump curve of the 6-inch EDDY Pump used in the environmental dredge shows stable, high-flow performance across a wide operating range, enabling efficient slurry transport at varying discharge distances and solids concentrations. This wide curve supports consistent production, reduces the risk of clogging, and enables reliable hydraulic dredge operation under changing site conditions.

HD6000 heavy duty slurry pump curve

Project Types and Industry Applications

Environmental Remediation

Environmental Remediation and Restoration

Designed for precision environmental dredging, this system supports contaminated-sediment removal, habitat restoration, and shoreline-rehabilitation projects where low turbidity, controlled excavation, and accurate material handling are critical to regulatory compliance.

Municipal Wastewater

Municipal and Government Dredging

Used by municipalities and public agencies for maintaining waterways, stormwater systems, and public infrastructure. The dredge supports government dredging projects requiring predictable production rates, accurate positioning, and reliable operation in regulated environments.

Municipal Wastewater

Water Treatment and Wastewater Management

Well-suited for wastewater lagoon dredging and water treatment dredging, enabling efficient removal of settled sludge and biosolids. The non-clog dredge pump design helps maintain consistent flow when handling variable solids content.

Sand & Aggregates

Lake and Reservoir Maintenance

Supports lake and reservoir dredging equipment and applications by removing accumulated sediment that reduces capacity. Precise depth control and stable operation allow targeted sediment removal without excessive disturbance to surrounding water bodies.

River, Canal, and Lake Dredging

River and Canal Maintenance

Used in river dredging equipment and canal dredging systems to restore flow capacity, manage sediment buildup, and maintain navigability. The spud ladder configuration provides stable excavation in flowing water and varying bottom conditions.

Sand & Aggregates

Industrial Sediment Removal

Applied in industrial sediment removal projects where abrasive solids, debris, or process byproducts must be dredged efficiently. The heavy-duty, high-chrome pump construction delivers extended wear life in demanding industrial environments.

Municipal Wastewater

Marina and Port Maintenance

Supports marina dredging equipment for berth maintenance, access channels, and basin cleanup. Accurate positioning and controlled excavation help maintain required depths while minimizing impact on adjacent structures and vessel operations.

Land Reclamation and Coastal Projects

Wetland and Habitat Projects

Used for wetland dredging equipment applications where environmental sensitivity is critical. The system enables controlled material removal and placement while supporting ecological restoration goals and long-term waterway health.

Dow Chemical: Contaminated Sediment Removal in the 3,000-ft. Shoreline of the St. Clair River

Case Study

Industrial shoreline along the St. Clair River with toxic sediment contamination

The Problem

An industrial shoreline along the St. Clair River was contaminated with toxic sediments accumulated over decades of chemical discharge. Contaminants were spread across a highly uneven riverbed with slopes up to 45 degrees and sediment layers ranging from a few inches to more than nine feet deep, resting on soft clay. The challenge was to remove only the contaminated material without disturbing the underlying substrate or releasing pollutants downstream.

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Custom-engineered environmental dredge using T2 technology removing contaminated sediments

The Solution

A custom-engineered dredging system using EDDY Pump’s T2 technology was developed to meet strict environmental and regulatory requirements. The dredge operated parallel to the shoreline with an articulated head capable of precision excavation across changing bottom contours. It pumped a high-solids slurry over long distances and through elevation changes while maintaining a consistent flow, enabling the controlled removal of contaminated sediments and safe transfer to a containment pond.

Custom-engineered environmental dredge using T2 technology removing contaminated sediments
7
Environmental dredge operation removed contaminated sediments with minimal turbidity impact

The Result

The dredging operation successfully removed 98-100% of the targeted contaminated sediments, totaling approximately 28,000 cubic yards across multiple phases. Environmental monitoring confirmed that turbidity and water quality remained within regulatory limits throughout the project. The precise dredging approach prevented downstream contamination, supported long-term remediation goals, and contributed to progress toward removing the site from the Great Lakes Areas of Concern list.

Call for sales or support

If you need assistance with pump selection, sales or engineering support, call 619-404-1916.

Questions? Talk to an Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an environmental dredge, and how is it different from conventional dredging equipment?

An environmental dredge is designed for controlled sediment removal in sensitive waterways. Unlike conventional dredging equipment, it focuses on low-turbidity operations, precision excavation, and minimal disturbance to surrounding water and substrate, making it suitable for environmental remediation and regulated projects.

What type of pump is used in the EDDY Pump Environmental Dredging System?

The system is powered by a high-efficiency, non-clog dredge pump built with heavy duty high chrome materials. This hydraulic slurry pump is engineered to reliably move abrasive, high-solids slurry, supporting continuous industrial sediment removal without the blockages common in traditional centrifugal pumps.

How does this dredge achieve low turbidity during operation?

Low turbidity is achieved through controlled excavation using a rotating suction head, precise depth control, and accurate positioning. The hydraulic dredge removes targeted sediment layers without overcutting, reduces suspended solids, and is suitable for eco-friendly dredging in lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

What types of projects is this environmental dredging equipment best suited for?

This environmental dredging equipment is widely used for lake and river dredging, reservoir and canal dredging, marina dredging, wastewater lagoon dredging, and environmental remediation projects requiring precision and regulatory compliance.

Can the dredge handle contaminated or debris-laden material?

Yes. The dredge pump system is specifically designed to handle contaminated sediments, debris, and abrasive solids. Its non-clog design enables reliable transport of high-solids slurry, which is critical for environmental remediation equipment used in industrial and government dredging projects.

How accurate is the dredging process?

The system integrates precision dredging equipment, including dual RTK GPS, automated spud controls, and real-time flow monitoring. This allows operators to maintain consistent cut depths, follow defined dredge plans, and achieve accurate material removal in complex underwater conditions.

What is the typical production capacity of this hydraulic dredge?

Production rates typically range from 300 to 400 cubic yards per hour, depending on material type, solids concentration, and discharge distance. This makes the dredge suitable for both municipal dredging applications and larger-scale industrial sediment-removal projects.

Is this dredge suitable for shallow or confined areas?

Yes. The spud ladder configuration and controlled excavation system allow operation in confined spaces, near shorelines, and around structures. This makes it effective for pond dredging systems, marina basins, canals, and wetland dredging equipment applications.

What are the power and discharge requirements?

The environmental dredge operates with a minimum 350 kW marine generator and typically discharges through an 8-inch HDPE pipeline. Optional booster pumps can be added for long-distance discharge in larger dredging system layouts.

How does this system support regulatory and environmental compliance?

The dredge is designed to meet the demands of environmental remediation dredging by limiting sediment disturbance, supporting monitoring systems, and enabling precise material control. These features help municipalities, industries, and government dredging projects meet environmental regulations while maintaining efficient dredging performance.

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At EDDY Pump Corporation, we promise innovative, reliable, and efficient pump solutions with exceptional service, ensuring optimal performance and minimal downtime in the most challenging environments.