Ruston engines are powering two new tugs, Enseleni and Palmiet part of the Portnet Fleet. Each tug is powered by twin Ruston 6RK270 engines rated at 1900 kWb at 1000 r/min, giving a bollard pull of 50 tonnes and a free running speed of 12 knots. These 30m omnidirectional tugs are a proven design from Mctay Marine, in Liverpool and the propulsion units are the latest from Voith Schneider. Both tugs were built by Safbuild of South Africa.

These vessels are now fully commissioned and working in and around Durban Harbour and Richards Bay. The latter port serves approximately 1700 commercial ocean going vessels with more than 3500 shipping movements, accounting for 110 million gross tonnes annually.

Following the successful completion of the first two vessels Ruston has received a further order to supply two more 6RK270 marine propulsion engines for a third Portnet tug also to be built by Safbuild. The 100 million Rand contract for these new tugs is part of an upgrade and replacement programme to be completed over the next ten years.