Advantages Compared: Flexifloat vs. Poseidon Sectional Barges

Tips & Advice

Flexifloat and Poseidon are two of the most popular makers of sectional barges, which are also sometimes referred to as “modular” barges or “truckable” barges. The biggest difference between these two types of sectional barges is how their locking systems work. Additionally, select models of Flexifloat barges come in slightly smaller sizes, which makes transporting them for particular kinds of projects easier. If you’re trying to decide between investing in a Flexifloat barge or a Poseidon barge, here’s what you should know about what differentiates them in general:

Flexifloat Barges

  • These barges feature a one-of-a-kind locking system that is entirely self-contained. This means Flexifloat barges do not have any loose parts.

  • The Flexifloat locking system has an upper and lower connection point with female and male connectors that are secured in place with a vertical bar that is a part of the female connector.

  • Each individual Flexifloat unit possesses a recessed lift shackle at its center that is welded into its deck structure. This simplifies the work crews have to do to connect modules/sections.

  • Modules/sections can be connected end-to-end, side-to-side, or end-to-side as needed to create the size and shape of platform areas needed for specific jobs.

  • Flexifloat offers the following series of barges: H-50, S-50, and S-70.

  • H-50 barges can support up to 100-ton loads and are highly portable. This series of Flexifloat barges are often used to support small cranes and for various applications in drilling and pipeline construction.

  • S-50 barges can support up to 300-ton loads and are intended to be transported by traditional tractors and trailers. They are often used in bridge and dam construction, equipment transport, oil well operations, and dredging.

  • S-70 barges can support up to around 2000-ton loads and cranes that weigh up to 400 tons. They are the largest and strongest of the products offered by Flexifloat and the largest that is possible to transport using trucks. S-70 barges are often used to support heavy mobile cranes, large excavators, and drilling rigs.

Poseidon Barges

  • These sectional barges have a “hairpin” connection system, which is fairly straightforward and makes connection simple.

  • Poseidon barges, unlike Flexifloat barges, are not entirely self-contained and do come with loose parts. Accessories include: pockets, cleats, pushers, winches, ladders, and safety railing.

  • Poseidon sectional barges are sometimes compatible with locking systems from other manufacturers of sectional barges, which makes them a versatile option.

  • The Grade A-36 steel used in the construction of Poseidon barges makes them extra strong and durable.

  • Poseidon sectional barges are highly protective against rust and corrosion, and their decks are embossed, which allows for a skid-resistant surface.

  • Most Poseidon barges require a permit load to transport because of their dimensions.

  • Popular sectional barge models from Poseidon include: the Poseidon I (P1), the Poseidon II (P2), the Poseidon III (P3), and the Poseidon P-10.

  • Poseidon models differ mostly based on their dimensions, which are outlined on Poseidon's website.

  • P1, P2, and P-10 models have a deck bearing capacity of 20,000 psf and come with 18-inch deck hatches.

  • P3 models have a deck bearing capacity of 30,000 psf and can float 37,000 lbs. payload at 50% draft. They can also be connected with sections/modules of Shugart barges. Additionally, they have 24-inch deck hatches.

OVERVIEW

Whether you settle on a Flexifloat or a Poseidon barge, you can’t really go wrong. Both of these manufacturers build state-of-the-art models that will offer you the flexibility and durability you need from a sectional barge. Ultimately, the scope and nature of your project and the specs of particular models from each manufacturer should determine which type of sectional barge you decide on.

To learn more about barges, check out our blog titled "Eiffel 101: Barge Type Reference Guide".

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