Importance

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Abstract

A concrete float having a buoyant foam core surrounded by a concrete shell. The deck of the shell has integrally formed therewith a plurality of transverse ribs and longitudinal ribs which strengthen the deck. Consequently, the necessary strength for the deck can be achieved by utilizing a substantially reduced quantity of concrete. A tubular conduit extends beneath at least some of the transverse ribs. The conduits are provided in order to receive tie rods having their ends projecting from the sides of the float and through elongated wales which serve to secure the floats to each other. The concrete is preferably reinforced with conventional concrete reinforcing bars. The float is formed by placing a rectangular block of foam in a rectangular form after a layer of concrete has been poured in the form with the foam core being positioned apart from the sides of the form. Transverse and longitudinal grooves are formed in the upper surface of the core, and tubular conduits are placed in at least some of the transverse grooves. Finally, sufficient concrete is poured into the form to fill the sides and cover the upper surface of the foam thereby filling the space between the core and foam. The concrete also fills the grooves in the foam thereby creating the transverse and longitudinal ribs and securing the tubular conduits in position within the transverse grooves.

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First Claim