Towing & Ship-Assist · Hawser & Catenary
The sag, or 'catenary', in a towing hawser is valuable because it:
- AMakes the tow lighter
- BActs as a shock absorber, smoothing surging loads between tug and tow✓ Correct
- CIncreases towing speed
- DReduces fuel consumption to zero
Explanation
The catenary (the curved sag of the hawser) absorbs the surging shock loads that occur as tug and tow move out of step in a seaway, protecting the gear from sudden snap loads. Letting out more hawser deepens the catenary in heavy weather.
Authority: Towing seamanship; hawser handling
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