Abstract: A smooth bore, self-aligning connection for pipes of the type used in hydraulic dredging. In this connection, the spigot end of one pipe contacts metal to metal at the bell end of the other pipe. A packing gland is defined outwardly of the contacting pipe ends by a positioning ring toe and an annular ring of the bell. A third annular ring on the bell end engages a stepped ring on the spigot end to align the pipes longitudinally as well as radially. A locking ring which is threadedly adjustable engages a skirt depending from a fourth annular ring formed on the bell to lock the spigot end of the pipe to the bell end. The bell and spigot connection of this invention is also adaptable to a pontoon pipe having a flexible reinforced rubber hose section between the spigot and bell ends of a pipe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for efficiently and economically hydraulically dredging to a level bottom. The method includes the use of a cutter head which is pivotally mounted to the end of a dredging ladder. The cutter head is swung through its cutting arcs with the axis of rotation of the cutter head aligned with the longitudinal axis of the ladder. The cutter head is tilted relative to the longitudinal axis of the ladder until the cutter blades are parallel to the level bottom to be cut with the adjustment accomplished before the cutter head is swung through the last cutting arc above the level bottom to be reached. The apparatus includes a pivotal connection between the cutter head and the ladder which is located at the trailing edges of the cutter blades so as to follow the path of the trailing edge of the swath of the normal cut of the cutter head.

Abstract: A dredging apparatus including a spud barge and a dredging barge. A hollow pivot sleeve is located at the stern of the dredging barge. A hydraulically extendable arm is mounted on the spud barge and is pivotally connected to the pivot sleeve. A large diameter bull ring is affixed to the pivot sleeve. A pair of cables connect to the bull ring and to a pair of power driven winches on the spud barge. The winding and unwinding of the cables around their winches swings the dredging barge about the pivot sleeve during dredging. An anchor spud extends through the hollow pivot sleeve to hold the dredging barge in fixed position when the spud barge is being relocated.

Abstract: A cutter head for a suction dredge which is constructed of simplified wearing parts and strength members which may be easily assembled and replaced. The cutter includes a circular front plate mounted on a hub. Portions of the circular front plate are cut away to form a plurality of spokes extending radially outwardly of the hub. Struts extend between the circular plate and a back ring having a greater radius than the spokes to form a truncated conical cutter head. Blades are connected to the struts and are inclined in the direction of rotation of cutter head. A plurality of inclined lifter plates are attached to the circular front plate on the rear side thereof. Each lifter plate is aligned with and extends rearwardly from a cut away portion of the circular front plate. Scoops are mounted on the front side of the circular front plate and each scoop forms a forward extension of an inclined lifter plate. Cutting tooth assemblies are attached to and are positioned along the struts.