Mcallister Tug Propelled By Schottel

Schottel has secured a contract with American tug operator McAllister Towing to provide propulsion units for a new-build escort and harbor tug. The tug is under construction at Washburn & Doughty shipyard in Maine. It will be equipped with two Schottel Rudderpropellers type SRP 490 with an input power of 2,525 kw. each, delivering an expected bollard pull of about 82 tons.

The new tug continues a long-standing cooperation between McAllister Towing and Schottel. More than 30 years ago, McAllister was Schottel’s first towing customer in the United States. Since then, Schottel has delivered more than 70 azimuth thrusters to U.S.-based tug operator McAllister.

“Schottel, with its experience and customized solutions, not only meets but often exceeds the requirements in today’s modern maritime industry,” said Capt. Steven Kress, vice president operations at McAllister Towing. “Besides highly efficient products, Schottel’s competent advice and good service make the propulsion experts a reliable partner when it comes to providing our vessels with the best propulsion efficiency at all times.”

The main propulsion for the tug consists of a pair of Caterpillar CAT 3516 engines, each driving a Schottel SRP 490 azimuthing stern drive unit with fixed pitch propellers 2,800 mm. in diameter and enabling a free running speed of more than 14 knots. In combination with an input power of 2,525 kw. and an input speed of 1,800 rpm. it is expected to provide a bollard pull of about 82 tons. The ASD-type tug is designed for harbour and terminal operations as well as for coastal towing.

Rudderpropellers with a maximum power rating for tug duties between 2,350 and 2,550 kw. per engine, such as the SRP 490 and the SRP 460, are among Schottel’s azimuth thrusters that have undergone several technical updates to offer customers state-of-the-art design, construction and economical operation.