DUKC® in 2024: Global Expansion and World Firsts

Mineral Resources’ Onslow Iron Ore project. Image credit: https://www.mineralresources.com.au/

This year, OMC commissioned several new DUKC® systems including in North America, Europe, and Australia.

One of these was for Mineral Resources’ Onslow Iron Ore project in Western Australia. This award winning transhipment project utilises a world first Articulated Tug and Barge (ATB) design. This involves locking the tug to the back of the barge, and controlling the combined tug and barge vessel from the wheelhouse at the fore of the barge. OMC International’s naval architecture team undertook significant analysis to ensure accurate modelling of these vessels in the DUKC®. The DUKC® is used to maximise the sailing draft of the laden transhipment vessels (TSVs), and optimise their cycle times. Together, these factors contribute to maximising throughput of the operation.  

Speaking at the NavTech Conference in Seattle, Capt. Chris Yarbrough of the Savannah River Pilots highlighted how DUKC® implementation at the Savannah River has assisted in the safe and efficient handling of the next generation of ships through its precision and reliability. DUKC® is used to manage UKC, air draft, and vessel specific current restrictions, simplifying scheduling, reducing delays, and ensuring navigational safety.