CAISSONS
The application of reinforced concrete for caissons has certainly created new con
structional possibilities in connection with the closing of dike breaches.
There are two main types of caissons:
1. The Phoenix caissons, types AX and BX, which came from England and measure
7500 and 3400 tons respectively. Strong sea-going tugs towed these caissons to
the Netherlands (see the illustrations on pages 57, 58 and 59).
These caissons were used on D-day in June 1944 to assist the allies in their landings
on the Normandy coast. The caissons then constituted a valuable aid in gaining the
ultimate victory and once again they have proved a strong weapon in beating back
the enemy.
2. The caissons built in the Netherlands, small units of about 180 tons each. The
height of these units can be increased by placing 50-tons sleeves on top of them
(see illustrations on pages 60 and 61).
