Kongsberg thrusters for new tugs

One of the tugs, a 60-tonne bollard pull vessel, is the first of a next-generation design by towage company Svitzer and naval architects Robert Allan. This new TRAnsverse 2600 tug is said to generate higher steering forces than other tugs of a similar size, and is uniquely capable of pushing, pulling and manoeuvring in all directions.

“The TRAnsverse Tug is set to form the basis for a carbon-neutral methanol fuel cell tug which is currently in development, and the future-proof design of our thrusters means they’re already good to go when newbuilds of this nature start to appear,” commented Tomi Venttola, sales manager – Propulsion & Engines, Kongsberg Maritime.

To meet Sanmar’s needs, KM has made a number of bespoke alterations to its US2055 fixed pitch azimuth thrusters including the addition of high-performance gear to provide greater power as well as increasing the thrusters’ speed to 5rpm.

The thrusters are also equipped with HD clutches, remote access function and a condition monitoring system which will enable customers to extend the vessel’s dry-docking period from five years to seven-and-a-half years.

KM is also supplying full sets of deck machinery including a hydraulic, high-pressure, fully auto-tensioned escort towing winch with two rope drums equipped with band brakes and friction clutches. Also included is an anchor capstan with an electric frequency controller and an anchor lowering system which can be operated from the wheelhouse.