New 15,000-bbl Design Maximizes Material Usage, Simplifies Fabrication

The Seattle office of Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG) announced the completion of a new 15,000-barrel tank barge design package for Maxum Petroleum, Inc.

Designed to balance performance with fabrication cost, the new 15,000-barrel tank barge features a state-of-the-art tankerman's office, recessed machinery space aft for improved visibility, a dimensionally identical cargo tank, plus bulkhead stiffener and plate seams arranged to maximize material usage and simplify fabrication.

"We're excited about this new design, and we're looking forward to seeing the finished product," stated Mike Complita, EBDG VP of Shipyard Services. 

"This is an exciting time for Maxum Marine," said Chuck McDaniel, President of Maxum Petroleum’s Marine Division. "The new barge represents Maxum’s continued commitment to its global marine customers and future presence in the U.S. West Coast maritime industry."

Although several ship builders expressed an interest in constructing the tank barge, including yards on the Gulf Coast, EBDG and Maxum ultimately decided to partner with Oregon-based Vigor Fab on the vessel construction out of their Seattle facility.  "Vigor has a strong history of barge building in Oregon, and we’re glad to be able to bring that expertise to better serve our customers in Seattle," said Vigor’s sales and marketing manager, Bryan Nichols.

The 15,000-barrel tank barge is one of nearly two dozen barges that have been delivered to the EBDG's designs over the past decade.  Those designs have covered a comprehensive range of types and markets including product, deck and combination barges for both bunkering and transport, each customizable to the client's specific requirements.