Abstract: Traffic capacity is one of the core concerns for Three Gorges shiplock. It is crucial to improve the lock capacity and to construct new channels for the Three Gorges shiplock. In line with the Chinese code for master design of shiplocks (JTJ 305-2001), we present a new calculation method for the traffic capacity of shiplock based on time-divided ship draft control standard. According to field operation data, we predicted the lock capacity of Three Gorges shiplock by using the proposed method, and results revealed a maximum capacity of 151 million tons for Three Gorges shiplock. In view of the current insufficient traffic capacity, we put forward such short-term improvement measures as time-divided ship loading and dynamic management and emphasized long-term measures including constructing new channels and supporting projects.

Key words: Three Gorges shiplock, traffic capacity, time-divided method, improvement strategies, ship draft control standard, water depth on shiplock sill