Interlocking ballast system

Abstract

A ballast system for a machine is provided. The ballast system includes a plurality of ballast assemblies interlocked with one another. Each of the plurality of ballast assemblies includes a body defining a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is distal to the second surface. The body includes a hollow configuration. The ballast assembly includes a first cover plate affixed to the first surface. The ballast assembly also includes a second cover plate affixed to the second surface. The ballast assembly further includes a passage provided on at least one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate. The passage is adapted to interlock with a passage of an adjacent ballast assembly of the plurality of ballast assemblies. The passage is further adapted to allow flow of a ballast material therethrough.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A ballast system for a machine, the ballast system comprising:
 a plurality of ballast assemblies interlocked with one another, each of the plurality of ballast assemblies including:
 a body defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface distal to the second surface, the body having a hollow configuration; 
 a first cover plate affixed to the first surface; 
 a second cover plate affixed to the second surface; and 
 a passage provided on at least one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate, the passage adapted to interlock with a passage of an adjacent ballast assembly of the plurality of ballast assemblies, the passage further adapted to allow flow of a ballast material therethrough. 
   
     
     
         2 . The ballast system of  claim 1  further including a first seal provided between the first surface and the first cover plate. 
     
     
         3 . The ballast system of  claim 2  further including a second seal provided between the second surface and the second cover plate. 
     
     
         4 . The ballast system of  claim 1  further including a recess provided on the second surface, the recess adapted to engage with a lifting means adapted to lift the ballast assembly.