Hadelner Kanalschleuse, Lock and discharge sluice in Otterndorf, Germany.
The Hadelner Kanalschleuse is a lock and discharge sluice in Otterndorf that connects the Hadelner Canal to the Lower Elbe River. It features three sluice gates, including two lifting gates weighing 50 tons each and one additional gate of 30 tons.
The original structure was built in 1853 and operated for over 160 years before being replaced by a new facility in 2022. This modern installation opened in July 2022 to better serve contemporary navigation demands.
The lock serves as a key element in managing water flow between the inland canal and the river, protecting surrounding areas from tidal floods.
The new facility accommodates vessels up to 33.5 meters long, 5 meters wide, with a maximum draft of 1.5 meters for navigation. Visitors should note that operating times vary depending on tidal conditions in the Elbe.
During low tide in the Elbe, the gates open to release water, while during high tide they remain closed to prevent flooding in inland areas. This sophisticated tidal management system allows the structure to function reliably under extreme conditions.
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