How Do You Spell NAVLOC?
Pronunciation: [nˈavlɒk] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [nˈavlɒk] (IPA)
NAVLOC, short for "Navigation Lock," refers to a device or location used for controlling the passage of vessels between different water levels in a canal or river, specifically assisting with changes in water elevation. It is an essential component of canal systems that enable boats and ships to navigate areas with significant variations in water levels.
The NAVLOC consists of a structural enclosure, typically made of reinforced concrete, which includes two sets of gates. These gates can be opened or closed to either allow or prevent the flow of water through the lock. The gates are designed to withstand the pressure exerted by the water, ensuring their integrity and functionality.
When a vessel approaches a NAVLOC, it enters the lock chamber, and the gates behind it are closed. Then, depending on the desired direction, the gates at the opposite end of the lock are opened, allowing water to flow in or out of the chamber under controlled conditions. As water levels within the lock chamber change, the vessel rises or lowers to match the water level of the next section of the waterway.
NAVLOCs play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and efficient transportation system, as they allow vessels to bypass natural obstacles such as waterfalls, rapids, or areas of extreme tidal variations. They facilitate the movement of vessels, contributing to the navigation of inland waterways and promoting the transport of goods, passengers, and recreational boats between different bodies of water.
Overall, the NAVLOC is a vital engineering structure that aids in the smooth transition of vessels across water areas with varying levels, enabling safe and efficient navigation within canals and rivers.
