61 AUGUST 2026 G ladding-Hearn Shipbuilding delivered the new Calcasieu Pilot to the Lake Charles pi- lots in June to support pilot transfers the Cameron, La., jetties and the sea buoy, approximately 30 miles offshore. Initially, the pilots wanted the new 73ʹ all-aluminum vessel to replicate the one that Gladding-Hearn built for them in 2019; however, significant modifica- tions had to be made due to the move from Tier 3 to Tier 4 propulsion. The new engine and exhaust af- ter-treatment equipment added over 6,000 lbs. compared to the propulsion package in the earlier vessel. The ship- yard was able to offset most of this by reducing the boat’s fuel capacity by 500 gallons to 1,500 gal. as the team had found that they rarely needed the full capacity on the previous vessel in daily operations. A near-complete reconfiguration of the engine room was required for the new propulsion package with mechanical equipment relocated and space found for the diesel exhaust fluid tanks and related systems. Glad- ding-Hearn also improved the exhaust mounting, shaft line, and tunnels based on their experience with the pilots, resulting in a smoother and quieter ride during sea trials. This was Gladding-Hearn’s first in- stallation of a Tier 4 engine exhaust system. According to the shipyard, the twin Cummins QSK38-M1 Tier 4 diesel engines, were the first pro- duction from Cummins’ Tier 4 series, following prototype units operating in the field. With the twin engines, which are rated at 1,300 bhp each at 1,800 rpm, the new vessel has a loaded speed over 27 knots. Through Twin Disc MGX-6620A gearboxes, the engines turn five-blade propellers. Each engine is equipped with a Cummins selective catalytic reduction exhaust after-treatment sys- tem, which, according to the shipyard, reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate emissions by more than 80 percent. The vessel also includes twin Kohler 32-kW generators and Humphree interceptors with automatic trim opti- mization and active ride control. Im- tra supplied eight Norsap shock-mit- igating seats and an Exalto Wiper Technologies B.V. wiper system The wheelhouse includes a centerline helm, a sofa, and baggage storage. The forecastle contains upper and lower berths, an enclosed head, a galley, lockers, and additional storage. MEMBER NEWS Gladding- Hearn Delivers New Pilot Boat PHOTO: GLADDING-HEARN SHIPBUILDING The build was Gladding-Hearn’s first installation of a Tier 4 engine exhaust system.
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