Voith partners with Robert Allan to develop new escort tug concept
Voith has teamed up with the renowned Canadian naval architecture firm Robert Allan Ltd. to develop an escort tug design. On the 2012 ITS (International Tug and Salvage Convention and Exhibition) in Barcelona, the two partners signed the cooperation agreement for the implementation of the vessel concept, Voith press release said.
Conventional Voith Water Tractors are equipped with two Voith Schneider Propellers located at the bow. The RAVE (Robert Allan Voith Escort) Tug concept uses one Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP) at the bow and one at the stern arranged along the center line, thereby allowing for even better tug maneuverability. In addition, the high lateral thrust forces at the stern of the tug as well as the more narrow design of the tug provide an advantage over conventional Voith Water Tractors (VWT); particularly so in narrow locks, ports or canals.
The RAVE concept was first presented during the ITS 2010 in Vancouver. During this year's ITS held in the International Convention Centre in Barcelona between May 28 and June 1, Robert Allan Ltd. and Voith signed the official contract for the implementation of the vessel concept. Using model testing and numerical flow analyses, the developers have proven that the RAVE concept can be implemented. It will be developed individually depending on customer requirements. To improve the steering forces yet further, a Voith Turbo Fin can be installed as an additional option.
Voith Turbo, the specialist for hydrodynamic drive, coupling and braking systems for road, rail and industrial applications, as well as for ship propulsion systems, is a Group Division of Voith GmbH.
Voith sets standards in the markets energy, oil & gas, paper, raw materials and transportation & automotive. Founded in 1867, Voith employs more than 40,000 people, generates €5.6 billion in sales, operates in over 50 countries around the world and is today one of the biggest family-owned companies in Europe.
