Articulated tug barge

An articulated tug barge (ATB) is a tug and a dedicated cargo barge mechanically coupled at the stern notch so the unit pushes as one hull while keeping a hinged pitch connection. The coupling system, commonly Intercon or Articouple, pins the tug into the barge’s notch and lets the tug pitch independently in a seaway, which a rigid connection cannot. ATBs are common in US coastal and Jones Act petroleum and dry-bulk trades because the barge crews to a lower manning standard than a self-propelled tanker of the same deadweight. The tug retains its own propulsion and can uncouple to work other barges. The tradeoff is reduced seakeeping versus an integrated tug barge or a ship.