Damen reveals new compact tug model
Damen has expanded its portfolio with the unveiling of a new compact tug design described by the Dutch shipbuilder as the “next piece in the puzzle” as it sets out to answer the needs of the modern port operation.
The new 18m long, 30tbp vessel, designated the ASD Tug 1810, brings the number of ASD configured tug designs in its catalogue to seven, including the RSD 2513 (Reversed Stern Drive) model. It continues the growth of Damen’s ‘next-generation’ series of tugs, including all-electric versions first unveiled in 2018 and soon gaining continuous orders from customers globally.
Damen has drawn on the experience gained with this growing family and the ASD Tug 1810 includes innovations and continuous evolution of the series, thereby presenting a subtly different and evolving image of the shiphandling and coastal towing tug of previous generations while not straying from the proven ASD configuration.
The aim of a compact tug design is the paradoxical situation of requiring more power to handle increasingly large vessels but operating within less space. Damen says the ASD Tug 1810 is set to “meet this challenge straight on”. It has placed great emphasis on safety with its new model and it is in the detail where innovation, often basic in principle, has resulted in a gradual evolution of design.
Safety and functionality
The ASD Tug 1810 has a high freeboard, keeping water on deck to a minimum, and a tumblehome, allowing safe close approaches to vessels, the master benefitting from ergonomically-designed consoles and 360 degree visibility. Damen Safety Glass with shatter-proof glazing protects the crew in the event of a tow line parting.
Safety is enhanced through clutter-free decks providing a clear view on what’s taking place and reducing trip hazards, achieved through most items conventionally found on deck incorporated into the deckhouse and bulwarks. The tug includes Damen’s patented Twin Fin skeg, first included in the RSD Tug 2513. The usual fendering is included with options for a W-block push bow and tyre fendering.
A notable feature with the ASD Tug 1810 is the positioning of the DMC, hydraulically driven split-drum, 125-ton brake towing winch within the deckhouse allowing towing both forward and aft from a single winch, spooled from the top for towing over the bow and from the bottom for towing over the stern.
The tug’s towing winch is enclosed within the deckhouse block
Being sheltered from the elements minimises the need for maintenance for the winch and it is included for example in the ASD Tug 2312, around 30 of which have either been delivered or have yard allocations.
Machinery innovation
Similar maintenance gains are achieved from the closed-loop cooling system whereby no seawater enters the vessel, resulting in possible docking intervals of as much as seven years.
The tug provides 30tbp ahead, 28tbp astern and a speed of 10.7kn from twin Caterpillar C32 engines, developing in total approximately 1,940kW and powering Schottel SRP 270 FP thrusters with IMO Tier III compliance available from Damen’s optional Emission Reduction System.
Another example of innovation is where rather than the typical arrangement of two diesel gensets, two shaft generators are fitted, one to each power train, with a Caterpillar C4.4 back-up diesel generator for power when alongside with no shore power supply available, thereby eliminating the requirement for a third diesel engine running for electric power when sailing.
The four-person accommodation is well insulated and the wheelhouse features a floating floor and acoustical ceiling. The tug has all necessary equipment to be remotely connected to Damen’s Triton IoT system, allowing monitoring of the vessel’s performance both on board and from ashore.
As standard with Damen’s tugs, options are available beyond the standard version. Escort, oil pollution control and fire-fighting capabilities are available alongside basic towing and mooring functions and while BV classed, Lloyd’s Register classification is also an option.
An oil-fired central heating system is available, and on-deck options include an aft deck capstan, aft towing hook and HS Marine deck crane. The usual comprehensive nautical and communications equipment is included as standard with the option of including ECDIS, SSB radio and a Voyage Data Recorder.
Other basic specifications include a 10.23m beam for the 18.25m LOA tug and a draught aft (approx) of 4m. Tank capacities include 23m3 fuel oil and 4.3m3 of fresh water.
Related Articles
AUTONOMOUS VESSELS & TECHNOLOGY
OTHER NEWS
OTHER NEWS