Manoeuvring characteristics of the push train with an auxiliary steering device

The carried out and planned studies on the revitalisation of Odra and Vistula rivers in Poland and restoration of regular inland navigation put a great attention into environmental issues related to the operation of inland waterborne transport means. The design and operational parameters of inland ships and convoys are dependent on waterways dimensions and their influence on the environment. The article presents problems related to manoeuvring performance of the push train, which is the most popular inland waterborne means of freight transport in Poland and in Europe. The alternative auxiliary steering device improving push train manoeuvrability has been tested on the physical model of a push barge. The active bow steering device consisted two bow rotors has the influence on the operational safety of the push train with respect to improved manoeuvring characteristics and decreased impact on the environment, port and lock facilities, ships and boats in narrow passages. The results of model tests presented in the article allowed for estimation of turning ability of the push train with and without bow rotors. A significant difference was observed with respect to the manoeuvring area, distances of advance, tactical diameter, and time of the manoeuvre.