Basic Statistics of the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is 80 kilometers long between the Atlantic and Pacific. The Canal is cut through the narrowest saddles of the isthmus in which join North and South America. Within the Canal there are a system of locks in which function as water lifts. These locks raise ships from sea level to the level of the Gatun Lake (26 meters above sea level) and then through the Continental Divide. The lock chambers 33.53 meters wide by 304.8 meters long. The maximum dimensions of the ships that can transit consist of ships that are 32.3 meters in beam, draft depth of about 12 meters in fresh water and 294.1 meters long.
http://www.pancanal.com/eng/acp/asi-es-el-canal.html
http://www.pancanal.com/eng/acp/asi-es-el-canal.html
Frequently Asked Questions
How are the vessels raised and lowered?The vessels of the Canal are raised and lowered by water from the Gatum Lake. This water comes into the locks through a system of culverts that extend under the lock chambers from the sidewalls and center wall.
What types of ships come through the Canal?Daily, ships from all parts of the world venture through the Panama Canal. Overall, 13 to 14 thousand vessels travel through the Canal each year. The canal accommodates more than 144 maritime routes, connects 160 countries and reaches 1,700 ports throughout the world.
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What is the narrowest part of the Canal?The narrowest point of the Canal is the Culebra Cut (later known as the Gaillard Cut). The Culebra Cut extends from the North end of Pedro Miguel's locks to the South end of Gatun Lake at Gamboa. This part is 13.7 kilometers long and is carved through the rock of the Continental Divide.
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How often is it open?The canal is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and contains 10,000 employees. This canal is unique due to its service to vessels of all nations without discrimination.
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