Our boats go nowhere without those stainless steel propellers rotating beneath the hull, connected by a shaft to a gearbox and driven by our diesel engines. Here are some propeller basics that all mariners should know.

A Towboat propeller or "wheel" as described by most Towboaters, consists of a hub and typically 4 blades, spaced equally around the axis. The tip is the point most distant from the hub. The root of the blade is the area where the blade arm joins the hub. The leading edge is the edge that first cuts the water.

Propellers are classified as being right hand or left hand propellers. When viewed from astern, with the towboat going forward, a right hand propeller rotates in a clockwise direction. A left hand propeller rotates in a counterclockwise direction. Most twin screw towboats operate with a right hand prop on the stbd side and a left hand prop on the port side.

Think of the propeller in the terms of a wood screw; we can describe its' advance forward as the screw turns. The distance advanced each time it makes a revolution, is called the pitch. Pitch is defined as the theoretical forward movement of a propeller during one revolution if there was no "slippage" between the propeller blade and the water.

When the wood screw turns through wood or a solid medium, that advance forward is set. One revolution of the screw advances the actual distance of the pitch. A towboat propeller is turning in a liquid medium which allows it to slip or skid along the path. The difference between the theoretical advance or pitch and the actual advance through the water is called the slip.

The set of the pitch of a propeller is dictated by the horsepower of the driving engine. Set the pitch too great, and the engine will not reach max rpm. Too little pitch and the engine will quickly come up to rpm but will not produce the expected horsepower.

The diameter of your propeller is the distance across the circle that a propeller makes when rotating. Prop Diameter can me calculated my measuring the Radius (distance from the center of the hub to the outermost tip of a blade).

As an example, the M/V KYLE A. SHAW has wheel dimensions of "72 x 30". This says the diameter of the propeller is 72 inches or 6 feet. For every revolution of the propeller, the boat, with no slip, should advance 30 inches or 2 � feet. Of course there is slip involves with the movement through water, so the 2 � feet is only in a perfect world!

This 4 blade propeller from shows a diameter of 72" with a pitch of 58".

Propeller vibration and loping while operating at different rpm's, can occur from several sources:

Damage to the prop from striking an underwater object can knock a blade or blades out of pitch. This will set up unequal forces while rotating.
Unbalanced propeller....more weight on one side vs. the other can cause vibration and loping.
Cavitation can be caused by a poorly designed prop operating at high rpm's.

A "singing" propeller is caused by poor preparation of the trailing edges of the prop before installation.

Check with your repair department to get details on the wheels underneath your boat.

Safety & Vetting Spotlight

Where do you stow flammables onboard your vessel? Are they safely secured inside of the paint locker as required?

CFR 46CFR 142.340 Requires that flammables are stored in a designated storage area free of all ignition sources.

46CFR 142.340 This addresses storage of flammable or combustible products; this section applies to all vessels.

(a) A towing vessel that has paints, coatings, or other flammable or combustible products onboard must have a designated storage area.

(b) The storage area may be a room or compartment that is free from combustible materials and ignition sources or an approved flammable storage container.

(c) In addition to the portable fire extinguishers required by Tables 142.305 as appropriate to length of the vessel, an additional B II portable fire extinguisher must be provided nearby.

Company policy B.1.40.3 (x) takes it one step further and requires that flammables are stored inside of the paint locker.

Portable containers of flammable and combustible liquids shall be stored in designated paint lockers. This storage requirement applies to all types of portable containers of flammable and combustible liquids including paints, thinners, starting fluid and cleaners. (The portable gas tank used with the skiff outboard motor may be stored in the skiff.)

What's wrong with this picture? Don't let this happen on your vessel. Instead, make time to properly store all flammables.

What Are They Talking About?

The 2015 Wheelmen's Seminars Wrap up in Many, LA.

Higman Wheelmen from all over the fleet converged on Cypress Bend Resort in Many, LA to attend one of the three scheduled Wheelmen's Seminars held in March and April. The two day event brings Wheelmen and Shoreside Personnel together in a series of small group workshops that cover professional topics.

Here is what was discussed in the workshops:

Barge Seamanship 101 - Tom Payton with Randy Laughlin got into the finer points of barge maintenance with an emphasis on SIRE inspections.

JHA development - Amy Kappas brought new life to the job hazard analysis process with examples and suggestions to make JHA's a valuable part of operational safety.

Beyond Gain, Sea Clutter and Rain - Capt. Chris Jourdan discussed the finer points of radar operation with an emphasis on the rules of the road. Using a Furuno 2127 radar with a simulated input, he worked with the groups to help them get the best picture and information out of these systems.

Focus on Steering Systems - Robert McMahan and Shane Faucheux from Rio Controls and Hydraulics, used a steering system simulator to help wheelman better understand the mechanics of normal steering systems. They concentrated on backup options available in the event of a system control failure.

Wheelhouse Navigation Systems Integration - Gordie Keenan brought the Wheelmen through typical Higman wheelhouse navigation and communication systems with an emphasis on how these components integrate with each other.

Houston Ship Channel Safe Navigation - Capt. Dwight Whittington led a discussion on the navigation and communication skills needed for safe transits of one of the busiest waterways in the United States, the Houston Ship Channel.

How to Throw a Ring Buoy - throwing a ring buoy may look easy but to do it accurately takes some skill. The Higman Port Captains demonstrated proper techniques and then got some friendly competition going among the Wheelmen.

SIRE Prep with a Tankerman Advancement Survey - Cisco Zelaya and Dennis Zink looked deeper into the SIRE program and the skills needed by tankerman for advancement in the future.

Other big group discussions were held which included:

2014 safety Statistics and Goals for 2015 - a detailed review of the previous year with a look to the future.
Safety Management Jeopardy - a spirited contest between teams to see who best knows the Higman Safety Management System.
Incident Review - looking at lessons learned from several incidents from the previous year.

Say "Cheese" at meeting #3

APM April 27-29

3-Day Simulator - Required Training Every 5 Years

Attention: All Wheelmen and Steersman!

We still have spots for the April 27-29th Advanced Pilothouse Management (Simulator) Session April 27-29. Email Janis or Kelly in the Training Department to reserve your space for this training. Or, you may call Janis at 281-864-6010 to make your reservation and arrange hotel accommodations.

Basics of a Report

Remember the "5 W's".

Who knew when they were 17 that their high school teachers were telling the truth; "You will use this for the rest of your life"?

That is definitely true when it comes to writing a report. At Higman, reports are used both within our own company and to our customers. They are used for maintenance, supplies, crew change, incidents, injuries, training and more. Since our customers see these reports from time to time, it is highly important that you remember how to make an accurate report.

The "5 W's" should come to mind when writing a report.

Who: Use the first and last name of those involved; directly or indirectly, Higman or Non-Higman. For example: Who is the ship's agent, who was the person that was injured, who were the witnesses included dock personnel, who did you speak to with the USCG?
What: The facts. This should include detail; one line is not enough. Be as accurate as possible. Do not use words like "you think"; give facts.
When: The date and time of the incident.
Where: Be specific. Where was the damage on the barge, was it port or starboard, which tanks were involved? Where were other vessels or objects in relation to you?
Why: Why did you make that decision? Did you use "all means necessary"? Was there something different that I could have done? Why didn't I? This is where you give your decision making.

When writing a report it's important to take your time. Make your notes as your go, then go back and read through them before filling out the forms.

If you need help with a report call your Port Captain before you submit it. Many people outside of Higman may see your report, including customers, attorneys, etc. The quality of the report will reflect upon the company and YOU.

Ship Pilots and Towboat Wheelmen Get Together

Let's talk.

From Bloomberg Business, February 27, 2014:

"An average day on the channel in 2013 saw 38 tankers, 22 freighters, a cruise ship, 345 towboats, 6 public vessels, 297 ferries, 25 other transits, and 75 ships in port, Coast Guard data show."

"Companies' access to the waterway is so vital that the port authority estimates its closure would cost an estimated $330 million a day in lost commerce."

With this in mind, coordination and communication between the many groups piloting vessels on the HSC is extremely important. Out of this need came recently held Houston Area Brownwater-Bluewater Mariner Coordination Course, sponsored by the Houston Pilots.

Capt. Dave Box makes a point.

This course is a two-day, 16-hour training seminar designed to bring together operational mariners working in the Houston area to review incidents, relate experiences and share strategies to improve communications and coordination of commercial vessels.

Four Higman Captains attended the first of these sessions:

Capt. Dave Box, Capt. Mike Taylor, Capt. Stephen Shepherd and Capt. Victor Allen.

Our Captains came away with new insights on the maneuvering limitations of the different ships making the transit. The ship pilots representing Houston, Texas City, Sabine and Corpus Christi came out with a better insight on tow maneuvering limitation. All left with a goal of working on better communication between the users.

Of course getting to know the person conning the vessel sharing the waterway with you helps the process.

Future dates for the course will be planned and Higman will continue to send our Wheelmen.

Deckhand Academy Classes

Volunteers Needed

We will be holding a Deckhand Academy class the week of May 4. We are also holding a class the week of May 18 for our Interns from San Jacinto College who will be with us for the summer and will coming aboard as deckhands.

We are looking for volunteers, especially tankerman to assist us with the classes. If you do volunteer, we will pay your daily rate and provide lodging and meals if you do not live in the Houston area.

Contact Dennis at 281-864-6018 or e-mail at [email protected] if you are interested in assisting. We look forward to seeing you.

Last Call to sign up for

Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance

We are happy to announce Higman is offering VOLUNTARY SUPPLEMENTAL LIFE INSURANCE from Guardian Life.

In previous weeks you were sent a personalized packet in the mail from Guardian. Each employee has the opportunity to elect voluntary life insurance up to $200,000, guaranteed, with no medical questions to answer if you enroll during the initial enrollment period.

The packet will give the amount of your monthly premium when you choose a policy for $50,000, $100,000 or $200,000. Most information has been filled-in for you; however, you must complete the form in its entirety, including providing the beneficiary information, sign it and return it to Mary Kay Cole in the Channelview office. The deadline is May 1, 2015.You can drop it off, click here to email it, fax it or mail it. Premium deductions will begin in June if you elect this life insurance.

If you choose to decline coverage, please check the box indicating you do not want this coverage. Sign the form and return it to Mary Kay. If you decline coverage now, and decide at a later date to enroll, you will need to complete a medical questionnaire.

Nav Zone: HSC New VTS Reporting

There have been several changes to the Houston Ship Channel VTS Reporting system. They have added new check points, taken out old ones and added a new channel. This has created some confusion. Here is a simplified explanation for your specific direction of travel. We have also included a map at the bottom including channels.

E/B on ICW (crossing HSC)

Check in at mile 355 on Channel 05A. Switch to Channel 12 for traffic reports.
If instructed check in at Pelican cut on Channel 12
If instructed check in at mile 349 (mouth of Bolivar) on Channel 12
Check out at mile 345 on Channel 12

W/B on ICW (crossing HSC)

Check in at mile 345 on Channel 05A. Then switch to Channel 12 for traffic reports.
If instructed, check in at mile 349 (mouth of Bolivar) on Channel 12
If instructed, check in at Pelican cut on Channel 12
Check out at mile 355 on Channel 12

Inbound HSC

You have already checked in on the ICW on Channel 12
Check Point at HSC LT 33/34 on Channel 11
Check Point at HSC LT 69/70 on Channel 11
Check Point at Morgan's Point on Channel 11
Check Point at HSC LT 122 on Channel 21A
Check Point at Shell Deer Park on Channel 21A
Check Point at Greensport on Channel 21A
Check Point at Lyondell Turning Basin on Channel 21A
Check Point at Buffalo Bayou Railroad Bridge on Channel 21A

Outbound HSC

15 min check in on 05A before leaving dock/fleet.
Check Point at Buffalo Bayou Railroad Bridge on Channel 21A
Check Point at Lyondell Turning Basin on Channel 21A
Check Point at Greensport on Channel 21A
Check Point at Shell Deer Park on Channel 21A
Check Point at HSC LT 122 on Channel 21A
Check Point at Morgan's Point on Channel 11
Check Point at HSC LT 69/70 on Channel 11
Check Point at HSC LT 33/34 on Channel 11
If instructed, check in at mile 349 if E/B, and mile 351 if W/B
If E/B on ICW check out at Mile 345, If W/B on ICW check out at Mile 355.

Other Check Points

Check Point at Bayport LT 8/9 on Channel 11
Check Point at Texas City LT 11/12 on Channel 12

For a larger view click here

Rules of the Road Questions

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND ....Traffic separation schemes established by the International Maritime Organization __________.

a. provide inbound and outbound lanes to promote the safe flow of vessel traffic
b. provide vessel reporting systems to assist in search and rescue in the event of a vessel casualty
c. provide routing and vessel scheduling procedures to reduce shipping delays
d. prohibit vessels carrying hazardous cargos from entering waters that are environmentally sensitive

INLAND ONLY.... Which statement is TRUE concerning the Inland Navigation Rules?

a. They list requirements for Traffic Separation Schemes.
b. They define moderate speed.
c. They require communication by radiotelephone to reach a passing agreement.
d. All of the above

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND.... There are two classes of vessels which, to the extent necessary to carry out their work, do not have to comply with the rule regarding traffic separation schemes. One of these is a vessel __________.

a. engaged in fishing in a traffic lane
b. servicing a submarine cable
c. towing another
d. engaged on pilotage duty

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND.... The rule regarding look-outs applies __________.

a. in restricted visibility
b. between dusk and dawn
c. in heavy traffic
d. All of the above

BOTH INTERNATIONAL & INLAND.... A vessel using a traffic separation scheme shall __________.

a. only anchor in the separation zone
b. cross a traffic lane at as small an angle as possible
c. avoid anchoring in areas near the termination of the scheme
d. utilize the separation zone for navigating through the scheme if she is impeding other traffic due to her slower speed

Steak Fajitas with Avocado and Salsa

Most steak fajitas are made with skirt steak, and it tastes very good mostly because of the fat marbling through it. This recipe calls for a leaner cut of meat such as sirloin or even better filet mignon. Both of these cuts of meat have significantly less fat than skirt steak.

Ingredients:

Two 6 ounce pieces of lean steak (your choice)

Half of a 1 ounce package of fajita seasoning such as El Paso

Nonfat cooking spray

1 large Vidalia onion, sliced thin

1 large green bell pepper

1/2 ripe avocado sliced thin (use more if you like)

1 cup store bought fresh salsa

1/2 cup fresh cilantro

Eight low fat tortillas

1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

Directions:

1. Heat a grill pan over high heat. Season the steaks with half of the fajita seasoning, and spray lightly with the cooking spray. When the grill is hot, add the steaks and grill for 3 minutes per side for medium rare. Transfer the steaks to a platter, cover with foil. Leave the grill pan on the heat.

2. Combine the onion and pepper in a bowl and spray lightly with cooking spray. Season the vegetables with the remaining fajita seasoning, and place on the grill pan. Grill the vegetables until charred and crisp tender about 7 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm.

3. While the vegetables are grilling, mash the avocado lightly with a fork in a bowl. Stir in 1/4 cup of the salsa and half the cilantro to make the guacamole.

4. Place tortillas in a microwave oven or in a pan to warm.

5. Cut the steaks into thin slices.

6. To assemble the fajitas, spoon some of the guacamole onto each tortilla. Pile the steak and pepper-onion mixture on top of the guacamole. . Top with yogurt and remaining salsa and cilantro.

Nutrional Information: (Serving size: 2 tortillas with fillings)

Before After

Fat: 60g 12.2g

Calories: 1,165 331

Sodium: 1,167, Cholesterol: 57mg, Carbohydrates: 39g

Nautical Trivia

The Sloop-of-War "AUSTIN" and Scurvy.

The flagship of the second Texas Navy (1842 to 1846), was the sloop-of-war,

AUSTIN.

The AUSTIN, launched in 1839, had a crew of 23 officers and 151 sailors and Marines. The vessel carried armaments of 20 cannons. During her first mission in 1840 the AUSTIN was assigned to cruise the Gulf of Mexico along the Yucat�n coastline to gather intelligence and to look for suitable ports and anchorages.

The Texas Navy's flagship from 1840 to 1846,the sloop-of-war, AUSTIN

During this voyage, scurvy broke out among the crew. Scurvy is a disease that results from the absence of vitamin C in the diet. It was a common affliction of seamen at the time due to their poor diet of salt meat and dried grains with a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables.

A novel approach to cure scurvy on the AUSTIN is described by the ship's doctor in Jonathan Jourdan's book, "Lone Star Navy":

"The AUSTIN ferried the Navy's worst scurvy cases to Isla de Lobos, leaving them under the temporary care of Lieut. Thurston Taylor. There Moore and his ship's surgeon, Dr. John Burrows Gardiner provided an unconventional treatment for the scurvy victims: they were buried up to their necks in the islands sand. Dr. Gardiner put his physician's imprimatur on the unconventional treatment, writing in Austin's medical journal, "I have no hesitation in recommending strongly in all cases, where any report of the Squadron may have bad cases of scurvy on board, that she would if practicable proceed to some land, where the scurvy cases can be buried for several hours each day. The mode it is very simple and should never be continued longer than two hours, and another interval for four hours should elapsed between each internment, as if continued longer it will produce violent delusion."

The treatment most likely had little effect on the scurvy victims knowing today that a lack of citrus fruit in their diet was the probable cause. They would have been much better cured by consuming the juice of the numerous wild limes that grew on the Isla de Lobos.

Stern Shots

Wheelmen gathered together at Cypress Bend
for the March 28-29 Seminar

Capt. Chris Jourdan of M/V Gordan A. Keenan instructing on Radar Technique at the Wheelman's Seminars

Capt. Dwight Whittington, Evaluator,
taught classes on Houston Ship Channel Navigation at the Seminars

Casino Pit Boss, Dennis, with his "Debt Collectors" Capt. James Lee of M/V Cecil and Captain "Big Mike" of M/V Karl G. Andren

Winning or Losing at the Roulette Table? Casino Night - Meeting #3

Dates to Remember

2015 Tankermen Seminars

The next sessions start in July 2015.

2015 Advanced Pilothouse Management at SCI

First Session	Apr 27-29
Second Session	Jun 1-3
Third Session	Jun 15-17
Fourth Session	Jul 20-22
Fifth Session	Aug 10-12
Sixth Session	Sep 21-23

2015 Steersman Bootcamp

Second Session	Apr 30 - May 1
Third Session	Jul 23-24
Fourth Session	Nov 2-3

To schedule training please email Kelly or Janis - or

call Janis at 281-864-6010.

CBT Certificates earned by Higman employees to date during 2015: 1540

DO ALL CREWMEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO THE HIGMAN TRAINING NEWSLETTER?

PLEASE MAKE SURE A HARD COPY IS PRINTED AND MADE AVAILABLE FOR THE CREW.
Add your email address with the "Join our Mailing List" button (left side near top) to get your own copy!

Answers to this weeks Rules of the Road: A,A,B,D,C

Have a great and safe week!

Sincerely, Gordie, Kelly, Janis and Dennis

GORDIE KEENAN
KELLY CLEAVER

JANIS ANDERSON

DENNIS ZINK

� 2014 HIGMAN MARINE SERVICES, Inc.