Enter the bollard pull force and the efficiency factor into the calculator to determine the towing force.

Towing Force Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the Towing Force.

TF = BF * EF
  • Where TF is the towing force (kN)
  • BF is the bollard pull force (kN)
  • EF is the efficiency factor
    • The efficiency factor is a ratio of the total bollard pull force that is transmitted into towing force. This factor is dependent on several factors, including boat size, speed, and shape.

To calculate the towing force, multiply the bollard pull force by the efficiency factor.

What is a Towing Force?

Definition:

A towing force, more specifically, in this case, a boat towing force, is a measure of the total force that a tow boat pulls a small boat with as it moves.

How to Calculate Towing Force?

Example Problem:

The following example outlines the steps and information needed to calculate the Towing Force.

First, determine the bollard pull force. In this example, the bollard pull force is found to be 60 kN.

Next, determine the efficiency factor. In this case, the efficiency factor is measured to be .45.

Finally, calculate the Towing Force using the formula above:

TF = BF * EF

TF = 60 * .45

TF = 27 N

FAQ

What is bollard pull force?

Bollard pull force is a measure of the maximum force that a tugboat or similar vessel can exert on another object in a pulling action. It is a critical parameter in determining a vessel’s capability to tow other vessels or objects in marine environments.

How does boat size, speed, and shape affect the efficiency factor in towing?

The efficiency factor in towing is influenced by several variables including boat size, speed, and shape. Larger boats may require more force to tow due to increased water resistance. Higher speeds can also reduce efficiency due to increased drag. The shape of the boat affects how smoothly it moves through the water, with more streamlined shapes generally being more efficient.

Why is it important to calculate towing force accurately?

Accurately calculating towing force is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of towing operations. It helps in selecting the appropriate towing vessel and equipment, preventing accidents due to overloading or underestimating the required force, and optimizing fuel consumption and operational costs.