IJME 220

Paper Title: Reducing Fuel Usage and CO₂ Emissions from Tug Boat Fleets: Sea Trials and Theoretical Modelling

Authors

A J Murphy and S J Weston, Newcastle University, UK
R J Young, Svitzer, UK

Summary

Sea trials on a harbour tug have been conducted and are explained. The experimental results for fuel consumption per unit transport effort, under free-running (transiting) conditions, are presented and engine speed-propulsor pitch combinations for improved fuel economy are identified. A simplified analytical approach to predict fuel consumption, including the coupled engine-propulsor-hull system, is described. This rationale is combined with experimental observations and, consequently, performance maps present the complete operating envelopes of the harbour tug under both free-running and towing conditions. This combined approach proved to be effective and can be applied to the study of other tug vessels. As a consequence of this research, the engine control system on the harbour tug was modified to permit it to operate fully within the region of best fuel economy during free-running. The results from the bollard-pull predictions provide insight for the design and operation of harbour tugs in the future.

Reference

Transactions RINA, Vol 154, Part A1, International Journal Maritime Engineering, Jan-Mar 2012

DOI Number

DOI No: 10.3940/rina.ijme.2012.a1.220

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