Series 860SL Swinging Dragon® Dredge
The Series 860SL Swinging Dragon® Dredge is a versatile hybrid vessel that combines the benefits of a swinging ladder dredge with the productivity of a conventional cutter suction dredge. A defining feature of this model is its dual-mode capability: it can operate as a swinging ladder dredge in narrow areas without cables, or convert to a conventional dredging mode where the entire hull swings for wider cuts in open water. This adaptability makes it one of the most flexible machines in the industry. It features a 14-inch (350 mm) discharge pump and a heavy-duty engine, providing the power necessary to handle compacted soils and sand that smaller swinging ladder models cannot process.
This machine is specifically suited for contractors and government agencies that manage diverse water systems. It is widely used for flood control projects, canal maintenance, and the dredging of shallow reservoirs. Its ability to switch between modes makes it invaluable for projects that involve both narrow river sections and wider lakes or basins. The Series 860SL is also a preferred choice for environmental restoration and vegetation removal, where its powerful cutterhead can clear dense root systems while its positioning system ensures precise excavation.
Specifications
- Suction x Discharge Size: 14” x 14” (350 mm x 350 mm)
- Standard Main Engine Caterpillar C-32: 800 HP (596 kW)
- Power @ Cutter Drive: 100 HP (75 kW)
- Maximum Dredging Depth: 30′ (9.1 m)
Universal Standard Features
Modular Mobility
Every standard Ellicott dredge is engineered for transportability. Whether it is a single-truck unit or a modular heavy-duty vessel.
In-House Manufacturing
Ellicott designs and builds its own major components, including dredge pumps, and cutter head assemblies.
One-Man Operation
Dragon® dredges feature a centralized control room where a single operator can manage the entire dredging cycle.
Marine-Grade Construction
Our dredges are built using heavy-duty structural steel, marine-rated electrical systems, and corrosion-resistant coatings.
Global Support Legacy
With dredges operating in over 100 countries, Ellicott offers field service support for machines that have been in operation for decades.
Key Features
- Dual-Mode Capability: The only dredge in its class that can switch between "swinging ladder" mode for narrow areas and "conventional" mode for wide, high-efficiency cuts in open water.
- Operational Flexibility: Eliminates the need for multiple machines by adapting instantly to changing job site conditions, from tight canal maintenance to large-scale lake restoration.
- Cable-Free Narrow Dredging: In swinging ladder mode, the hull remains stationary, allowing operation in restricted waterways without anchors or cables that would otherwise block traffic.
- High-Output Performance: Features a powerful 14-inch (350 mm) pump and engine package , delivering production rates significantly higher than standard swinging ladder models.
- Precision Positioning: Combines the accuracy required for dredging around infrastructure with the cutting force needed to excavate compacted soil and vegetation.
Typical Applications & Users
- Dual-Mode Operations: Switching between narrow canal work and wide lake dredging.
- Flood Control: Clearing sediment from drainage channels and reservoirs.
- Vegetation Elimination: Cutting through nutrient dense sediments where root systems and invasive aquatic plants thrive.
- Primary Users: Government flood control agencies and versatile marine contractors.
Optional Dredge Equipment & Accessories
- Navigation & Signal Mast
- Flow Meter
- GPS DREDGEPACK® Software System (a Xylem-Hypack product)
- Zinc anode welded to hull
- Rubber Discharge Hose
- Aft Jib Crane
- Pump Handling Crane
Ready for Your Next Project?
Your challenge is our expertise. Contact an Ellicott sales engineer today to discuss how a Dragon® dredge can optimize your project’s profitability.
Ellicott has been a leader in dredge manufacturing for over a century. Our experts will match the perfect dredge – from our smaller, portable units to our heavy-duty capital dredging models – to your specific material and production goals.