Another Z-Tech 6000 tug for Singapore
27.4 m long and 11.5 m wide "KST Zodiac" is powered by twin Caterpillar 3516B diesels, driving two Schottel SRP1215FP azimuth rudder propellers. The configuration provides a free running speed of 12 knots, both ahead and astern, and bollard pull is around 60tonnes in both directions. Two Perkins Stanford 112kW diesel generating sets maintain all onboard electrical loads, while a 600hp Caterpillar C18 diesel engine drives a fire pump that supplies two fire monitors mounted on the wheelhouse top.
Z-Tech series of tugs are typically operated by a captain and a crew of eight, although accommodation arrangements vary slightly, depending on operator preferences. "KST Zodiac" includes two 3-man crew cabins on the lower deck as well as a provision store. On the main deck, there is a 2-man crew cabin and two single officer cabins, as well as the galley and dinette, providing for the crew of ten. The wheelhouse above has 360degree visibility through full height glazing all-round.
"KST Zodiac" has the class notation LR +100A1 Tug, +LMC, UMS of Lloyd's Register.
"KST Zenith" and "KST Zodiac" will operate in Singapore, where there is already a sizable fleet of Z-Techs built by Cheoy Lee.
They will be followed by the first of thirteen Cheoy Lee Z-Tech tugs for the Panama Canal. Almost identical in configuration to the KST vessels, the latest Panama tugs will be powered by larger, GE 12V228, 2965hp, engines. The 13 Panama tugs will supplement eight Cheoy Lee Z-Tech’s already operating on the canal.
