The Schacht and Weser locks, as well as the control center for the Mittelland and Elbe Side Canals and the pumping station designed to maintain a constant water level in the canal, were impressively showcased during the tour led by Mr. Sohny, Head of the Waterways Division. Right at the start of the tour, Mr. Sohny emphasized that the primary responsibility of the Waterways and Shipping Authority is to ensure the smooth flow of vessel traffic in the canal sections under its jurisdiction. The numerous locks and pumping stations along the canal are controlled from the control center in Minden, which the students were able to tour on site.
The highlight of the tour was a visit to the Schacht and Weser locks, as well as the pumping station, which pumps water from the Weser into the Mittelland Canal as needed. The tours focused on technology and maintenance. The Waterways and Shipping Association has its own maintenance department, which is responsible for developing a suitable maintenance strategy as well as for maintenance planning and implementation. It was fascinating to learn that this department also employs maintenance divers who are capable of performing inspections and repairs underwater. Mr. Sohny explained that the longevity of the components poses a particular challenge, especially when it comes to procuring and stocking spare parts. In many cases, when older systems fail, the necessary spare parts have already been discontinued by the respective suppliers, so that obsolescence planning for spare parts must take place well in advance of a failure.
In this context, a direct connection was immediately established between the knowledge acquired in Prof. Glatzel’s courses and its practical applications. The students were particularly impressed by the size and scale of the individual systems and components of the lock. After the extensive and fascinating tour concluded, everyone enjoyed a barbecue together on the banks of the Mittelland Canal. This provided an opportunity to share their impressions and also to engage in personal conversations in a relaxed setting.
