Towing & Ship-Assist · Gear & Makeup
The catenary (the sag in a towing hawser between tug and tow) primarily serves to:
- AReduce fuel consumption
- BAct as a shock absorber, cushioning surges between the tug and tow✓ Correct
- CKeep the towline visible at night
- DIncrease the tug's top speed
Explanation
The weight of the hawser produces a catenary that sags below the surface; as the tow surges, the catenary lifts and absorbs the shock load, protecting the gear from snatching. A wire pulled bar-taut loses this cushion.
Authority: Bowditch (Pub. No. 9)
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