Sparky is the result of six years of collaboration between Damen and Ports of Auckland Limited (POAL) in a quest for a sustainable, zero-emissions tug suitable for New Zealand\u2019s unique environment.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been a long time in the making and many parts of Damen have contributed to its development, alongside POAL,\u201d said Erik van Schaik, product manager tugs at Damen.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe believe that its introduction heralds a new chapter in harbour towage and a milestone in sustainable shipping.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tug milestone<\/strong><\/p>\n Delivered last summer, Sparky is Damen\u2019s first, fully-electric tug capable of 70 tonnes bollard pull that can undertake two or more assignments at full power before being recharged.This takes just 1.5 to two hours.<\/p>\n The key challenge for Damen was how to install all the equipment for the E-Drive into a hull just \u00ad\u00ad24 metres in length, with one of POAL\u2019s requirements being that that the vessel should be operable by two crew. This along with a range of other capabilities was achieved through mutual cooperation and continuous two-way communication between the two parties.<\/p>\n The solution was to have four identical and independent battery packs, each in its own insulated, temperature-controlled battery chamber and directly connected to the propulsion system.<\/p>\n The battery packs are designed to have a life equal to or longer that of the tug itself; 30 years \/ 30,000 cycles. Another advantage of having a dispersed energy source is that the propulsion system can be scaled up or down and it will be used in other Damen tug types, both larger and smaller.<\/p>\n Sparky brings with it all the benefits of Damen\u2019s proven RSD Tug 2513 series. These include always \u2018bow first\u2019 operations and its Damen-patented twin fins skegs give it excellent manoeuvrability and course stability despite its small length to width ratio. <\/p>\n Other features include having the complete superstructure spring-mounted on the hull. This results in very low noise and vibration levels in the accommodation and wheelhouse.<\/p>\n