Voyaging the World's Civil Engineering Wonders

This book provides an insight into the intriguing field of civil engineering, exploring extraordinary achievements such as the Panama and Suez canals, concrete Mulberry harbours, Falkirk's rotating ship lift, and the restoration of the Wilts & Berks Canal.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Civil engineering is a field that has seen many incredible feats of human ingenuity throughout history. From the SS Great Britain to the Panama Canal, the world's seas and waterways have been home to some of the most remarkable structures ever built. In his book, John Laverick takes readers on a fascinating journey through three continents and three centuries, exploring some of the most extraordinary achievements in civil engineering.

One of the most impressive feats of civil engineering is the Panama and Suez canals. These artificial waterways were constructed over a period of decades and required the expertise of thousands of workers. The canals allowed for the transportation of goods and people between Europe and Asia in a much shorter time than was possible by sea, and they have had a profound impact on global trade.

Another remarkable achievement is the concrete Mulberry harbours. These were built during World War II to provide a safe and efficient means of unloading cargo from ships at the front lines. The harbours were designed to withstand the impact of bombs and were made from a combination of concrete and steel. They were a major success and have since been used as a model for other harbour designs.

The world's only rotating ship lift at Falkirk is another example of civil engineering innovation. This lift was designed to allow ships to pass through the Forth and Clyde Canal, which connects Scotland and England. The lift rotates 360 degrees, allowing ships to navigate the canal in both directions. It is a feat of engineering that has been used to transport millions of tonnes of cargo since it was first installed in 1966.

A man-made island in the Baltic, linking the crossings between two countries, is another example of civil engineering ingenuity. This island, known as the Åland Islands, was created in the 1950s to improve transportation between Sweden and Finland. The island is home to a population of over 25,000 people and is a popular tourist destination.

Finally, the ambitious restoration of the Wilts & Berks Canal is a testament to the enduring power of civil engineering. This canal, which was built in the 18th century, was in decline for many years before it was restored in the 1990s. The restoration involved the removal of centuries of sediment and debris, as well as the construction of new locks and bridges. The canal is now a thriving waterway, providing a vital link between the South West of England and the Thames Valley.

In conclusion, civil engineering is a field that has seen many incredible feats of human ingenuity throughout history. From the Panama and Suez canals to the concrete Mulberry harbours and the world's only rotating ship lift, these structures have had a profound impact on global trade and transportation. John Laverick's book offers a fascinating insight into the field, taking readers on a journey through three continents and three centuries, exploring some of the most extraordinary achievements in civil engineering.

Weight: 724g
Dimension: 225 x 245 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803990989
Edition number: 2 ed