Method and Apparatus for Underwater Dredging

Abstract

An encapsulated underwater dredge assembly is operable at depths up to 1,200 feet or more. The underwater dredge assembly has multiple cutting assemblies, beneficially disposed around a centrally positioned dredge pump; each of the cutting assemblies can rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise directions, as desired. All components of the dredge assembly are hydraulically powered and operated.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . A dredging assembly comprising:
 a) a plurality of cutting assemblies; and   b) a dredge pump centrally disposed between said cutting assemblies.   
     
     
         2 . The dredging assembly of  claim 1 , wherein said cutting assemblies comprise:
 a) a motor having a central drive shaft; and   b) at least one cutting blade attached to said drive shaft.   
     
     
         3 . The dredging assembly of  claim 2 , wherein said motor and dredge pump are hydraulically operated. 
     
     
         4 . A dredging assembly comprising:
 a) four cutting assemblies; and   b) a dredge pump centrally disposed between said cutting assemblies, wherein said cutting assemblies are equidistantly spaced around said dredge pump.   
     
     
         5 . The dredging assembly of  claim 4 , wherein said cutting assemblies comprise:
 a) a motor having a central drive shaft; and   b) at least one cutting blade attached to said drive shaft.   
     
     
         6 . The dredging assembly of  claim 5 , wherein said motor and dredge pump are hydraulically operated.