Advances in bollard pull testing technology

摘要

Many arguments about the capabilities of a tug can be quickly settled when you can conduct a full-ahead power, bollard pull test. "Many captains will argue about horsepower, hull design, rudder angles, and other variables, but the only thing that really matters is bollard pull and a test provides empirical data of pure power," says Mark Babcock, VP of Machinery for Sause Brothers' 200 tugs, barges and OSVs. "A well-maintained vessel shouldn't lose bollard pull over time, but with every propulsion-related change, engine overhaul, shaft or propeller retrofit, the vessel should be re-tested."