Efficient Freight Transport on Shallow Inland Waterways - Results of the INBAT RD Project

摘要

The INBAT R&D project is presented with the project results. INBAT is the acronym for INnovative Barge Train and describes a low draught inland waterway transport system that was developed to operate with economic benefit in with a barge draught ranging from 0,60 to 1,70 m. The project objectives were achieved by application of new light weight construction materials with innovative structural design, engineering and production methods to improve barge payloads at to obtain lower production costs, optimized shallow draught propulsion systems and hull forms for best overall operating efficiency.