VESSEL REVIEW | HB Poraque – First in new series of inland pushboats for Hidrovias do Brasil

Brazilian shipping company Hidrovias do Brasil recently took delivery of a new electric-powered inland pusher tug built by local shipyard Belov Engenharia.

Named after a native species of electric eel, the Robert Allan Ltd-designed HB Poraque is the first in a series of two diesel-electric, shallow-draught pusher tugs ordered by the same customer. The vessels will provide terminal assistance in the Amazon River system as well as push barges laden with grain cargo for transport to isolated communities in the Amazon region.

The DNV-classed tug has an LOA of 20.4 metres, a moulded beam of 10 metres, a normal operating draught of 2.4 metres, and accommodations for 10 crewmembers.

The propulsion system includes two Caterpillar C18 diesel generators, two Schottel SRP210L-FP 375kW L-drive thrusters, and a 600kWh battery bank. The batteries allow HB Poraque to perform its core operations purely on battery power with the diesel generators providing redundancy and extended endurance. RAL said the tug’s existing battery capacity can be increased to 2,000 kWh in future to enable secondary roles to also be performed with zero emissions.

The tug can achieve a maximum speed of 15 knots and a bollard pull of 12 tonnes. The service speed is limited to around 8.5 knots.

The deckhouse extends aft over the main propulsion components including the Schottel thrusters, which are fitted in tunnels designed to optimise flow while reducing draught. The generators are provided in the auxiliary machinery space located below the main deck.

The vessel’s accommodations are outfitted to MLC-compliant standards. The wheelhouse is designed for maximum all-round visibility with a split forward control station providing improved visibility towards the foredeck working area as well as to the convoy of barges ahead.

HB Poraque has already begun operational sailings in support of the owner’s logistics activities. HB Enguia, the second tug in the series, is due for delivery in May of this year.

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