Conrad starts construction of BHGI designed ATB

APRIL 27, 2015 — Naval architect and marine engineering firm Bristol Harbor Group, Inc. (BHGI), Bristol, RI, reports that is currently completing the detail design phase of a new ATB (articulated tug barge), the Gulf Venture and Gulf Carrier, that will be operated domestically and internationally by Gretna, LA, headquartered John W. Stone Oil Distributor.

The 399 ft x 74 ft x 30 ft, 80,000 BBL double hull oil tank barge Gulf Carrier and the 120 ft x 40 ft x 18 ft 6 in twin screw ocean service tug Gulf Venture are  both currently being built under ABS survey at Conrad Shipyard, L.L.C. in Amelia, LA, with a 2015/2016 delivery date.

The new ATB will be used to support Stone’s continually expanding shore bases as well as offshore operations. She will be capable of transit and delivery of various marine fuels and associated products.

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA) were used extensively in the design effort. The purpose of the FEA study was to assess the stern scantlings of the barge in way of the  vessel’s Intercon ladder interface. Similarly, FEA was performed on the tug structure to assess the maximum stress in way of the Intercon load box. CFD analysis was performed to determine the calm water resistance of the combined unit and optimize the tug forebody and stern rake geometry of the barge.

Gulf Venture ATB Tug:

Dimensions: 120′ x 40 ‘x 18.5’
ATB Coupler System: INTERCON C Series
Main Engines: (2) CAT 3516C, 2,575 HP each
Main Generators: (3) John Deere 150kW
Classification: ABS ✠A1, ✠AMS, ABCU, Oceans Towing Vessel Unlimited Service certified under SOLAS/IMO/MARPOL

Gulf Carrier ATB Double Hull Oil Barge:

Dimensions: 399′ x 74 ‘x 30’
Capacity: 80,000 BBL
Bow Thruster: (1) Thrustmaster retractable azimuthing thruster, 750 HP
Main Generators: (2) John Deere 99 kW
Classification: ABS ✠A1, Unlimited Oceans, Permissively Manned