M/T Bison Delivered to Owner

The recent delivery of the FiFi1 escort tug Bison to Norwegian owner Buksér og Berging AS highlights one of Sanmar Marine’s proud boasts – the ability to provide proven hulls with a tailored fit-out. The Turkish builder uses only first class designs, in this case by Robert Allan Ltd of Canada, but is prepared to meet each customer’s special needs with a list of individual modifications to suit operational requirements. In this way the customer gets a performance guaranteed tailor-made tug but with the shorter construction time and cost benefits of a standard model.

In essence, Bison is a RAstar 2800/80 escort/terminal ASD tug measuring 28.2m x 12.6m and the ninth of this class to be built by Sanmar. Standard on this model is a sponsoned hull form, which enhances escorting stability. However, a number of improvements have also been made to enhance performance. A bollard pull of 80 tonnes and a free-running speed of 14 knots can now be obtained from a twin Caterpillar main engine installation comprising two IMO Tier II, 3516C type main engines, each developing 2240kW at 1800 rev/min. These turn Rolls-Royce model US 25CP Z-drives. Furthermore, the skeg has been re-designed to improve escorting capability.

The deck machinery is also by Rolls Royce with winches fore and aft, however the deck crane is from Palfinger – a type PK 15500 remotely controlled unit. Tow pins are fitted ahead of a 150 ton SWL stern roller. The forward towing bitts have been re-configured with all towing arrangement surfaces covered with polished 316L stainless steel. The aft deck has also been fitted with standard container fixing points.

For the terminal environment in which the tug will be operating, all deck and air intakes comply with Hazardous Zone 2 Area requirements and explosion-proof lighting, internal communication and deck machinery components are fitted. Sanmar has also fitted a cold climate package; with hot water boiler, and improved insulation in all areas including the Z-drive room. There is also a heat recovery system which heats up the vessel after the engines are started.

Bison will join Buksér og Berging’s fleet serving the Swedish petrochemical industry at the terminal in Stenungsund. The vessel will operate under Swedish flag with a Swedish crew of four. This has led to a further modification from the standard Sanmar Terminal layout which has accommodation for eight persons. By using the available space for just four en suite cabins (one is a double), the room and comfort allowed for each crewmember can be more generous. This is particularly noticeable in the spacious mess/lounge which has separate seating areas for dining and relaxing.