Brazil Shipyard Delivers Second RAmparts Tugboat

Designers Robert Allan inform that Keppel Singmarine Brasil Ltda. (KSMB), of Navegantes, Brazil have recently completed the construction of the 24m LOA 'SMIT Pareci', the second of a series of six Robert Allan designed RAmparts 2500 tugs, for SMIT Rebocadores do Brasil (Rebras), of Rio de Janeiro.

The designers explain that the RAmparts Class tugs are a series of proven, standardized Z-drive tug designs. Each of these designs has been developed from a successful prototype vessel or series of vessels, and refined to emphasize ease of construction and Owners’ specific requirements. This particular new series of RAmparts 2500 follows a successful series of twelve similar tugs also designed by Robert Allan Ltd. for SMIT Rebras, with delivery of the last vessel of the class, the SMIT Tupinamba, in 2008.

Robert Allan Ltd. worked closely with SMIT Rebras to develop this latest series, with significant changes including new engines complying with the latest IMO emissions standards, a new double drum towing winch and staple, a larger wheelhouse, a new streamlined skeg, updated fendering, increased fresh water capacity, and new electrical generators.

The design retains the characteristic half-height raised forecastle which provides increased bow height for improved operations in exposed waters, and the same hull form providing maximum performance ahead and astern.

The propulsion machinery consists of a pair of CAT 3512C HD high-speed engines, each producing 1,379 kW at 1600 rpm, in compliance with IMO Tier 2 emissions requirements. This power is transmitted via a straight line shafting system to a pair of Schottel SRP 1012 fixed pitch azimuthing thrusters with 2100 mm diameter propellers in nozzles. On trials, say Robert Allan, SMIT Pareci met or exceeded all performance expectations.

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