Floating pontoons with metal frames - have expanded plastic foam and light aggregate mixture covering frames

摘要

The pontoons may be manufactured of light expanded plastic material mixed with a light aggregate. The pontoons are cast over a prefabricated steel framework which is also used for joining the pontoons to a catwalk. The catwalk is made of timber. Successive float assemblies may be hinged together to form a floating bridge. The hinged elements ride the rollers or waves without undue stress. Side pieces may be butted into the main bridge structure so as to form mooring bays. The construction has advantages over steel caissons which require maintenance and are not inherently buoyant when not watertight. This floating bridge economises on mooring space in small boat marinas.