Australian orders for the new Damen ASD Tug 3212

Designated the ASD TUG 3212, the design is optimised for operating in the push-pull mode, escorting, towing and fire fighting operations in exposed waters. This first pair will be built in the Far East to comply with class and notations for Lloyds Register +100 A1 Escort Tug (+) LMC UMS EP, Fire fighting ship 1.

The tugs will measure 32.70m in length overall, 12.82m beam, 5.35m depth (at sides), a draft aft of 5.6m and a displacement of approximately 850 tons. The chosen hull form is based on results from the joint industry SAFETUG project for vessels operating in wave heights of 2.5m. A pronounced ‘V’ shape in the foreship combined with a high raised forecastle, ensures a relatively dry working deck. Other important design features include good dynamic stability, a deep skeg, bilge keels and relatively low wheelhouse position to ensure low accelerations for increased comfort, safety, and sea keeping performance.

An optimised fendering system and a combined towing winch with render and recover capability will aid safe operation in exposed waters. The double drum towing winch will be combined with an anchor windlass and located on the foredeck, with the towlines deployed via a heavy fairlead with twin polished apertures.

This first pair of the new design will each be powered by two Caterpillar 3516C HD TA/D main engines generating a total of 5,050 bkW (6,772 bhp) at 1,800 rpm. Emission figures for this engine comply with EPA and IMO Tier 2 rules. Each main engine will be coupled to a Rolls Royce US 255CP fully azimuthing propulsion unit via a relatively straight shaft line with bow tooth couplings. The units will incorporate 2,800mm diameter controllable pitch propellers, turning in nozzles lined with stainless steel.

Predicted performance figures for this new design anticipate a bollard pull towing ahead of 75 tons and a maximum free running speed of 14.00 knots.

Considerable effort has been put into maximising crew comfort, complying with the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, while operating in a harsh offshore environment. Fully air conditioned accommodation will be provided for a crew of up to ten persons in six cabins, a galley, mess room and all the usual facilities, fitted out with modern durable linings, thermal and acoustic insulation and floating floors. Noise levels are expected to be approximately

60dBA.

The first of the new tugs will be delivered in June and August of 2012. They will be stationed at Hay Point, Mackay, Queensland, Australia.