Nichols Brothers delivers hybrid tug to Baydelta

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The following is text of a news release from Nichols Brothers Boat Builders (NBBB):

(FREELAND, Wash.) — Nichols Brothers Boat Builders has delivered Delta Teresa, a new hybrid tractor tug, to Baydelta Maritime. The 100-by-40-foot Delta-class tug is the seventh tractor tug NBBB has built for Baydelta and its affiliated companies but the first hybrid, an exciting milestone for both NBBB and Baydelta.

The tug is powered by two Caterpillar C3516 C Tier 3 diesel engines each rated at 1,995 kW at 1,600 rpm and by two 424-kW electric motors. The z-drive system, two Rolls-Royce (now Kongsberg) 255FP units, can accept power from the diesel engines, electric motors and from both power sources. The electric motors are powered by three Cat C9.3 300-kW, 480-V three-phase at 1,800 rpm generators, and one harbor generator, a C7.1 150-kW 480-V, three-phase at 1,800 rpm.

The hybrid system allows for the vessel to operate in different power modes: direct diesel, diesel-electric or fully electric. This concept will allow for fuel savings as well as reduced exhaust emissions, while suppling Baydelta with the same power and vessel characteristics needed for its operations. During trials the tug's performance met or exceeded all expectations. Free running speeds, under full power, of 14-plus knots were obtained along with almost 10 knots on electric motor power only.

The tug has seven berths. The major equipment on board includes a Rapp Marine electric hawser winch, a single drum tow winch, and Centa carbon-fiber shafts. In addition to the drive units and hybrid system, Kongsberg supplied the control system and main switchboard, electric motors and control cabinets.

Designed by Seattle-based Jensen Maritime Consultants, the tug carries an ABS Load Line certificate and complies with U.S. Coast Guard requirements.

Currently under contract at NBBB are an articulated tug-barge (ATB) tug for Island Tug and Barge, four 100-foot tractor tugs for Foss Maritime, and two high-speed catamaran ferries for Kitsap Transit. Repair work includes vessels from Golden Gate Ferries and Kelly-Ryan Services.

By Professional Mariner Staff