| Operation & maintenance
logistics, improves operational flexibility and allows maintenance teams to respond more efficiently to varying site conditions. Watermaster notes that this type of flexibility is becoming increasingly important for hydropower operators, particularly as maintenance demands grow and site conditions become more variable.
Amphibious access and controlled
environmental performance The Watermaster Classic V has been designed to address the access challenges commonly encountered in hydropower maintenance projects. The machine can be transported as a complete unit using a standard trailer, allowing it to be moved quickly between multiple sites. It is self-launching, enabling it to enter the water without the need for crane support. Once in the water, the dredger is self-propelled and capable of travelling between work areas at speeds of up to 4 knots. During operations, front and rear spuds provide self-anchoring, creating stable working conditions even in shallow or confined environments. Where water depths are extremely limited, the machine can crawl or walk to continue work, allowing maintenance activities to proceed in areas that would otherwise be inaccessible. This level of mobility reduces the need for temporary access roads, bridges or additional handling equipment. As a result, project complexity and overall costs can be lowered, while safety conditions for operators can be improved. Environmental performance is also a key consideration for hydropower maintenance, particularly in regulated or sensitive water bodies. The Classic V’s suction dredging system is based on Watermaster’s patented submersible cutter pump, which allows sediment to be removed in a controlled manner with minimal disturbance to surrounding water areas. This targeted approach supports more precise maintenance work and helps limit the spread of suspended material. In addition, the ability to complete several
maintenance tasks with a single multipurpose machine reduces the overall footprint of operations along waterways and reservoir banks. Fewer machines operating on site can simplify environmental management requirements and contribute to more streamlined project execution.
www.waterpowermagazine.com | February/March 2026 | 25
Responding to changing
maintenance demand According to Watermaster, the deployment of the Classic V at VERBUND reflects wider trends affecting hydropower operators across Europe and globally. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of rainfall events, leading to higher erosion rates and greater sediment transport into waterways. This accelerates sediment build-up and increases the need for regular desilting operations. At the same time, nutrient pollution is contributing to stronger growth of aquatic vegetation. Excessive vegetation can restrict water flow, reduce effective storage capacity and complicate intake operations. These challenges are often most acute in shallow or marginal areas, where access is limited and conventional equipment struggles to operate effectively. As a result, there is growing demand for amphibious, multipurpose eco-dredgers that can carry out a range of maintenance tasks in difficult conditions. Watermaster reports increasing interest in this type of equipment from hydropower operators seeking flexible, cost-effective and environmentally responsible maintenance solutions. VERBUND has indicated that it expects the
Watermaster Classic V to support efficient, safe and environmentally friendly maintenance across its hydropower infrastructure. For Watermaster, the project demonstrates the role of shallow water dredging solutions in supporting long-term hydropower asset performance and addressing evolving operational and environmental pressures.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45
