A&B Industries To Build 76 Ft. Tug

A&B Industries, of Morgan City, La., has signed a contract with Luhr Bros., Columbia, Ill., for a 76-ft. model bow tug for service in the Great Lakes as a switch tug and general operations vessel.

The tug will be powered by twin Caterpillar 3508B main engines producing 1,710 hp. Since the tug will be involved in operations in low bridge clearance areas, its superstructure and mast were modified to a low profile to meet a 19 ft. air gap clearance. Also onboard will be a hydraulically-operated stern towing winch to increase the vessel’s capabilities and versatility.

The vessel is the third to house a hull design developed by A&B to meet inland and coastal operator requirements for 10 and 12 ft. hull depths. This specialized design can accommodate main engines with power ratings up to 3,000 bhp.