Purplewater design

The Giano project is the result of four years of teamwork by experts from Italy, the UK and China to research the design, operation and construction of tractor tugs. The company claim that; “the Giano tug delivers what it promises without compromise; it brings double-ended tug technology to maturity, brings intuitive response and simplicity to tractor tugs and a true omni-directional tug to the market. The Giano tug has been created by tugowners, skippers and designers who understand that force without control is nothing.” Tug owners and operators are invited to sign-up for a sea trial with the first Giano tug in Hong Kong or Europe.

From the literature provided, Giano is indeed a true double ended vessel of 25.75m in length overall with a breadth of 13.00m and available in either a 55 tonnes or 70 tonnes bollard pull versions. A complex hull form is not unlike a ‘trimaran’ has a deep central skeg and full depth side walls. In plan-view, the hull is almost rectangular with a bluff rounded bow. From the drawings available the hull is a complex ‘double skinned’ structure of considerable strength.

A fully azimuthing Schottel SRP 3000CP propulsion unit is located on the centreline at each end in the 55 tonnes BP version or SRP 1515CP in the 70 tonnes BP version. For 55 tonne BP the main engines are Caterpillar 3512 C HD diesels and Caterpillar 3516 for 70 tonnes. There are two enginerooms, one each end of the vessel, with the machinery positioned diagonally. The latter requires only a very short shaft connecting the engine and propulsion unit. It also places the engines below clear deck space making removal a simple matter.

The superstructure and wheelhouse is centrally located, offering good visibility and maximum clearance when under a ship’s ‘flared’ bow. Two towing winches are to be fitted, along with ‘staple’ fairleads, to give maximum flexibility. Giano tug is to be fitted with substantial fendering all-round the hull to take advantage of the vessels ability to apply force in any direction. A fender is also located on the side of the hull, well below the waterline, to enable the tug to lay alongside a ship and apply maximum force sideways.

The first Giano tug, a vessel of 274 gross tons, is being completed at the shipyard of Guangdong Bonny Fair Heavy Industries in Guangzhou, China. An interesting feature of the publicity so far available is a statement; that the tug has the benefits of UK flagging under the MCA Workboat Code – simplicity in operating and manning British MCA brown code MEOL certification and training for Chief Engineers.

By Jack Gaston