IMPROVING THE CAPACITY OF ALTAMIRA PORT (MEXICO) BY DREDGING

摘要

This paper describes the studies carried out and the methodology used to analyze ship manoeuvres and passing ship effects on moored ships at different berths in the Port of Altamira (Mexico), in order to improve the capacity of the Port by increasing the navigation areas in the Access Channel and establishing the navigation limits inside the Port. The Port includes two navigation channels 450 m wide (Access Channel and North Channel) and one channel 250 m wide in the South part. The simulation study analyzed the movements of the ships inside the port establishing navigation limits (mainly focused on speed and passing distance to moored ships) in order to increase safety during the transit of ships inside the Port. According to the recommended passing distance to moored ships, depths and dredging areas were defined in order to allow the meeting head-on manoeuvres of the vessels in navigation in the Access Channel. Safety criteria were always imposed on the analysis. To achieve the objectives of the study different numerical tools are used in a combined way in order to analyze the interaction between sailing ships and moored ships. Real-Time manoeuvring simulations carried out are also described. These simulations were performed by using two bridges at Siport21 facilities, with two Captains sailing in the same meeting scenario simultaneously (Access Channel). As a result of these simulations, a statistical analysis of the occupied areas by the vessels was carried out, obtaining the minimum width required of the dredging area in the Access Channel. This type of navigation studies is an essential basis for an adequate design of approach and access channels inside a port. The use of simulation tools allows a very precise definition of navigation areas both in horizontal and vertical dimensions. Therefore, optimization is achieved in terms of economy, safety and efficiency. These facts are specially relevant taking into account the ongoing increase in ship traffic and ship sizes in most ports around the world.