GLOBAL towage operator Svitzer has announced an agreement to build what it calls a “next-generation multipurpose tug”.
Svitzer is developing the TRAnsverse tug along with naval architectural firm Robert Allan and Turkish shipyard Sanmar Shipyards.
The TRAnsverse tug will be able to generate higher steering forces than most designs of similar dimensions. Svitzer said it would come with an innovative staple design and unique ability to push, pull and manoeuvre in all directions.
The first TRAnsverse Tug will be a 25.8m 60t bollard pull tug built to comply with the Tier III emissions regulations. The tug is designed with thrusters in line and an omni directional hull form.
To make full use of its capabilities, the tug is equipped with a render recovery double drum escort winch and a set of 100 T SWL tow pins.
The TRAnsverse tug will be fitted with the Svitzer Catcher and other equipment to automate operational elements.
Svitzer COO Ingrid Uppelschoten Snelderwaard said the tug would be a “game changer”.
“I am proud that we are able to pave the way for future tug designs and at the same time ease the transition from the marine fuel we use today to the future carbon neutral fuels that we are transitioning to over the coming years,” she said.
Together with a core Svitzer team, Thomas Bangslund, Svitzer’s head of technical innovation, has led the invention of the new tug design that after a series of successful tank tests and simulations is now ready to be built by Sanmar with Robert Allan as the designer.
Mr Bangslund said it is rewarding to see the versatile tug become a reality.
“It started as a wish to improve efficiency in our operations and is now materialising as a powerful and cost-efficient tug with the potential to reduce both operational cost and carbon dioxide emissions, while improving the safety margins in operations,” he said.
“The design combines the best of our innovative powers and I truly believe that this kind of customer focused innovation is what the towage industry needs to stay relevant.”
In collaboration with Robert Allan, the first-ever Svitzer TRAnsverse Tug will be built for harbour towage in Svitzer Europe, with expected delivery in Q3 2023.
Robert Allan manager, project development James R. Hyslop said integrating all these technologies into one vessel has never been done before and it was a real challenge to do it in a way that is safe, functional, and economic.
“It was only after an exhaustive tank testing program at HSVA Hamburg, with valuable input from Svitzer’s Masters, that the final layout was determined,” he said.
“Our design team is looking forward to the opportunities that will come with the construction and testing of this tug, as it paves the way for future newbuilds in the Svitzer fleet.”
