Harbor Docking & Towing, Lake Charles, La., has ordered a hybrid ship docking tugboat from C&C Marine and Repair, Belle Chasse, La.
The RApport 2800-H vessel designed by Robert Allan Ltd., Vancouver, British Columbia, measures 92' in length overall with a 40' molded breadth, 17' molded depth, and 18' navigational draft. The vessel will deliver 88 metric tonnes of bollard pull ahead.
The propulsion system features a pair of Cummins QSK60-M diesel engines rated at 2,700 hp at 1,800 rpm, coupled with a pair of 800-hp electric motors. The engines are connected to a pair of Kongsberg US255S FP Twin Input Z-drive units.
The system can be powered in four modes: "Eco" mode for standby and transit using only the two electric motors; "Hybrid" mode for full power maneuvers using both the diesel engines and electric motors; "Mechanical" mode using only the main diesel engines; and "FiFi" mode combining "Eco" mode for maneuvering with one main engine power take-off unit powering the firefighting system.
Electrical power is supplied by two Cummins QSM19 diesel generator sets for redundancy and reliable operation during towing operations. A smaller Cummins QSM11 generator will be used for lower load operation and harbor use.
Ockerman Automation Consulting Inc. will design and integrate the hybrid propulsion system and electrical control system.
The forward deck structure is designed to accommodate either a 75-hp or 100-hp DMT towing winch. Larger-than-typical ventilation systems are fitted to minimize engine room temperatures due to high ambient temperatures in the Gulf Coast.
Accommodations are outfitted for a crew of up to six with two double cabins and two single cabins.
The tug is designed to American Bureau of Shipping rules with the class notation A1 Escort Tug, Towing Service, FFV 1, Waterspray, AMS, UWILD, QR.
