PANAMAX Meaning and
Definition
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Panamax is an industry-specific term used in the field of maritime transport and shipping. It refers to the maximum dimensions a ship can have in order to pass through the Panama Canal, a significant waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
In terms of vessel size, Panamax offers clarity on the maximum limits imposed by the canal's infrastructure. These dimensions, determined by the Panama Canal Authority (PCA), have been set as guidelines to ensure that ships can navigate through the locks and channels safely without causing any obstructions or potential damage to the canal's infrastructure.
The typical Panamax vessel is constrained by a maximum length of approximately 294 meters, a maximum width of around 32.2 meters, and a draft (immersion depth) of roughly 12 meters. These limits were historically set based on the size of the original locks when the Panama Canal was opened in 1914. However, with the recent expansion of the canal completed in 2016, accommodating larger vessels, known as New Panamax, is now possible.
The term "Panamax" is widely recognized within the shipping and maritime industry as a standard reference for size limitations when planning and constructing vessels. It helps ensure that ships remain within acceptable dimensions for safe passage through the Panama Canal, facilitating efficient global trade between the Atlantic and Pacific regions.
Common Misspellings for PANAMAX
- oanamax
- lanamax
- -anamax
- 0anamax
- pznamax
- psnamax
- pwnamax
- pqnamax
- pabamax
- pamamax
- pajamax
- pahamax
- panzmax
- pansmax
- panwmax
- panqmax
- pananax
- panakax
- panajax
- panamzx
Etymology of PANAMAX
The word "Panamax" comes from the combination of the words "Panama" and "maximum". It specifically refers to the maximum dimensions that a ship can have to pass through the Panama Canal. The term was coined in the early 20th century when the construction of the Panama Canal was completed. It was used to describe the largest size of vessels that could navigate through its locks and various sections. Hence, "Panamax" became associated with the maximum size limits set by the canal. Over time, the term also extended to describe ships that were specifically built to fit within these dimensions.
