Question 1:
Where does the word "tug" come from?
Answer 1:
First recorded in 1225, from a weak grade of Old English, derived from the word teohan "to pull, drag". The meaning "small steamer used to tow other vessels" is recorded from 1817.
Question 2:
Is harbour towing mandatory?
Answer 2:
Unlike pilot services on the Saint Lawrence, harbour towing is not mandatory. However, it contributes to protect the environment, to ensure the safety of marine operations and to preserve the integrity of the port infrastructures.
Question 3:
What are the advantages of "Z-Drive" engines?
Answer 3:
This propulsion system is made up of two propellers, embedded in two nozzles which can rotate 360º independently from each other.
This type of vessel does not require a rudder or a transmission, which eliminates possible breakdowns of this equipment.
Unlike tugs with fixed propellers, the bollard pull of a "Z-Drive" engine maintains constant nominal power regardless of the angle used to carry out the operations.
The Z-Drive engine allows the tug to back up, move forward or remain perfectly still, which makes it particularly versatile for harbour towing operations.
The powerful jets generated by these propellers can thrust ice over great distances, making the tug extremely efficient in winter conditions.
Question 4:
Where are our ships built?
Answer 4:
www.groupocean.com/service-details.aspx
Question 5:
What kind of power can these vessels develop?
Answer 5:
www.groupocean.com/service-details.aspx
Question 6:
How much time is required for the berthing or unberthing of a ship?
Answer 6:
On average, the amount of time required for the berthing or unberthing operations of a ship is approximately one hour. However, in the case of large tankers, these operations could require up to two and a half hours.
Question 7:
What is the thrusting capacity of the tugs' FiFi fire fighting equipment?
Answer 7 :
The horizontal throw capacity of the FiFi pumps can reach up to 120m (45m vertical throw) and a vertical throw of up to 100m (30m horizontal throw). Their maximum capacity of water displacement is 2,400 m3/h.