Damen Shipyards to Build Robert Allan-Designed "Rotor Tugs"

Vancouver-based naval architects, Robert Allan Ltd. report today that two of their new ART 80-32 class Rotor tugs are to be built by the Damen Shipyards group for owners Elizabeth Ltd, a privately-owned Maltese shipowner.

This will be the first Robert Allan-designed vessel ever built by the Damen Group

These new tugs will incorporate the patented triple Z-Drive Rotor tug concept, featuring enhanced omni-directional manoeuvrability, and the benefits of a fully redundant and precise propulsion machinery configuration. The Rotor tugs concept offers increased security for ship-handling and escort towing, as well as enhanced crew safety.

The new tugs are 32m long x 12.6 meters beam, with an installed power of 3 x 1765kW, delivering an expected Bollard Pull of 80 tonnes. The hull form has been developed from Robert Allan Ltd.’s RAstar series of high performance escort tugs. The unique sponsoned shape has been adapted to suit the Rotor tug concept, and provides enhanced stability, sea-keeping and escort performance far superior to any wall-sided alternative.

The ART 80-32 tugs will also feature a hybrid propulsion system designed and supplied by Aspin, Kemp and Associates. This innovative propulsion system integrates electrical and mechanical energy, and manages it in a way to provide optimal operational modes, resulting in significant environmental and economic savings.

The first of the new Rotor tug is scheduled for delivery in early 2014.

Renderings courtesy Robert Allan Ltd.