STUDY OF ICE CLOGGED CHANNEL CLEARING PROBLEMS

Abstract : This study develops a mathematical model for the simulation of ships transiting a river under brash ice conditions. The model predicts the growth of the ice on the St. Marys and St. Lawrence Rivers and the subsequent transit times and delays of the ships at traffic levels predicted for the year 2000. Ice removal has been incorporated in the model and various ice removal strategies and removal rates have been investigated. The results of the removal rate study are presented as well as several preliminary studies that document the evolution of the project. Brash ice removal rates are chosen for the conceptual design of removal systems for the St. Marys and St. Lawrence Rivers. Removal concepts to meet these removal rates are screened and the better concepts are developed into designs. Estimates of acquisition costs are made and operational parameters are developed to the point where operational costs could be determined. (Author)