Articulated Tug and Barge Systems
For many tug-barge applications an Articulated Tug-Barge (ATB) system offers better efficiency, higher speeds, and improved control and manoeuvrability. Robert Allan Ltd. has designed a number of ATB systems, and has carried out Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) research to study optimum tug/barge interface geometry and alternative hull shapes to maximize overall tow efficiency. CFD is also used to solve the complex task of estimating the resistance of the complete assembly at various combinations of loading, speed, trim and sea conditions.
