dracone

plural dracones

1. A large bag towed by a powered vessel to transport a fluid cargo, such as a petroleum product (especially unprocessed crude oil) by sea.

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   A Dracone will go everywhere its towing vessel will go. Depending on the requirements, relatively small vessels can easily tow a Dracone, however, for faster speed or open ocean towing, higher powered vessels are more desirable. Smaller Dracones can be towed at speeds in excess of 12 knots, and even with the largest sizes it is possible to tow at speeds of approximately 7 knots. Because of its flexible construction, the Dracone is highly maneuverable and when turning, always stays within the turning circle of the towing vessel. To allow for greater flexibility in open-sea conditions, the Dracone is normally filled to 85 percent of capacity. Providing a more stable towing load than conventional vessels, it can withstand severe treatment because of its high tensile strength fabric and self-fendering characteristics. Two or more units can be towed one behind the other or side by side. When filled, they can be unloaded into storage vessels or dockside facilities, or can be moored at a sea anchor until such time as unloading can be effected. Conceived over twenty years ago, the Dracone was first developed primarily as a means of bulk liquid transport of refined petroleum products. It was fully tested jointly by the British Ministry of Defense and National research Development Council. Since that time, It has been in service worldwide for carrying numerous liquid cargoes both in tropical and cold weather climates.

   1976 Captain John R Kirkland: Environmental Response Newsletter - Page 5