new trends in tugboats

Would anyone be so kind as to share some views on new trends on tugboats for both ocean and harbour duty? thanks!

 

For harbor duty high horsepower, z-drives and FiFi capability to go after LNG contracts. As far as offshore tugs there hasn't been much change in the gulf market other than open sterns with rollers for fleeting anchors.

 

I think that the latest Carousel Tug concept is very interesting and promising in terms of towing safety. You can find some info here:
http://www.marinelog.com/DOCS/NEWSMMVI/2006jul00310.html
http://www.marinelink.com/news/article/new-tugs-offer-cutting-edge-capability/311210.aspx
http://www.maritimejournal.com/feat...lvage/another_step_forward_for_carrousel_tugs

 

Thanks, BayouDude. Do you know what tug operators look for particularly when selecting designs?

 

Thanks, daiquiri. This is indeed interesting. Do you know how many vessels have been fitted with this to-date?

 

Sorry, I don't have that info.

If you're interested in topics related to carousel tug design, please check out this very informative paper: http://www.imcgroup.nl/downloads/ITS_Paper.doc

Cheers

 

jclew

When most operators come to us for design they pretty much know the boat they want. If they don't have a particular hull in mind they at least know what the boat must do ;most of the time because the boat is being built for a particular contract. Some need eye level for pushing barges inland, others need high horsepower and fuel range for rig moves. etc. As a designer it would be a good idea to have at least one boat of each type that can be tweaked for the particular application. For a harbor tug you will need a wide beam and deep hull to keep the vcg down. You looking to sell your own design or doing this for a class project?

 

I'm exploring tugs as a design project, so I'm trying to find out what to incorporate on my design. Much appreciate everyone's advice!

 

Well, as was mentioned, there are a ton of different types of tugs out there, depending on what you application is. You need to decide what you are going to design the vessel to do, then go from there.

If you go to some websites for firms that design tugs, you'll see the wide variety of designs, from Ocean Going / Anchor Handling & Supply, to Escort, to docking assist, to ATB, to.... And within each category, there are a variety of ways to skin a cat.

Take a look at www.RAL.ca and look under the designs tab for a sample of what's out there.

 

jclew,

The thing to do is figure out what you need the tug to do first and to prioritise what you expect in the way of performance in each area. Then, what do you need in the tugs construction to allow for each function and expectation to be met.

-Tom

 

The Ship Docking Module concept isn't new, maybe 10 years old, probably older but so am I. The first one operated here in Ft Lauderdale, I think the Broward. It's a Z drive with a few twists.

http://www.seabulktowing.com/assets/pdfs/sdm_broch_linear_020909.pdf

It really something to watch these pull up to a ship and just reverse ends, no backing and filling or even turning, they are always pointed in the right direction.

Steve