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Moran continues to progress with its barge modernization program, and is currently
awaiting delivery of two new double-hulled tank barges from Bay Shipbuilding Company,
of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The barges, each measuring 425 feet in length, will be
used by ConocoPhillips to transport petroleum products from the company’s refineries
to its customers along the U.S. east coast, with the double-hull design providing a
major safeguard against oil spills. The barges are the first in Moran’s fleet to feature an articulated coupling system. The vessels are coupled by horizontal pins that fix the tug in the barge’s notch, allowing the tug’s pitch to alter independently of the barge, but preventing it from rolling or yawing independently. |
This arrangement affords increased control, maneuverability
and speed for the paired vessels in a variety of weather conditions, enhancing both safety
and efficiency. The new barges will also have a longer lifespan and increased cargo capacity. They’ll hold 110,000 barrels, a gain of 10% over the existing ConocoPhillips barges they will be replacing in Moran’s fleet. The use of double-hulled barges in marine transportation was mandated by the U.S. Oil Pollution Act of 1990, and is expected to significantly reduce the chances of spills occurring, as well as the potential for environmental damage in the event an accident does happen. |
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50 Locust Avenue | New Canaan, CT 06840-4737 USA | Tel: 203.442.2800 |
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