Pound Lock

The lock is comprised of several components and is used to regulate water levels. Its operation is based on the principle of communicating vessels, where liquid levels equalize after filling. This occurs because hydrostatic pressure, which is dependent on depth, causes the water to rise to the same height. In the model, a ship approaches the upper level and stops in front of the lock gates. The floodgates of the first gate are then opened. Due to the difference in water levels between the lock chamber and the upper level, the water levels begin to equalize. Once the levels are balanced, the valves close, the first gate opens, and the ship enters the chamber. At this point, the water level in the lock differs from the lower level. The floodgate at the second gate is opened, causing the water level in the lock to drop until it matches the lower level. Once equalized, the second gate opens, allowing the ship to exit the lock and continue downstream.