Custom Dredge Works Delivers Dredge To Legacy Materials

Topeka, Kan.-based Custom Dredge Works (CDW) has delivered a new 14-inch cutter suction dredge to Legacy Materials of Booneville, Iowa, near West Des Moines. The new dredge will be used in Legacy Materials’ new aggregate mining operation, which supplies sand and gravel aggregate to concrete and asphalt manufacturers in the Des Moines region.

Two characteristics set the new dredge from Custom Dredge Works apart. First, the dredge is electric, adding to the Custom Dredge Works’ portfolio of electric-powered dredges. Second, the dredge uses a chain ladder cutting system for removing material that includes large rock, cobble and other debris. Chain ladder dredges, which look like giant chain saw blades, are used in sand and gravel mining operations and are able to convey oversized material away from the suction to allow the dredge to capture the desired material.

The dredge will be used in the Booneville area, adjacent to the Raccoon River.

“Our focus was to design and deliver a world-class flagship dredge to Legacy Materials,” Custom Dredge Works President John Jones said in a statement. “We believe that we have achieved that, and we are excited to see how this aggressive and cutting-edge dredge will aide Legacy in its rise to be one of the top aggregate mining operations in Iowa.”