Tank testing on Damen's 70-m FCS 7011 fast crew supply vessel has been completed at Delft University of Technology.
With onboard comfort a key design parameter, the company carried out a large number of simulations to investigate seakeepeing characteristics. A 2.8-m, 1:25 scale model of the 70-m long vessel was put through tank testing at 30 and 40 knots in waves of 2-3 m significant wave height to validate the results of the simulation.
The testing produced positive results, with the hull design and Sea Axe bow shape resulting in the model reaching high speeds while meeting predetermined comfort-level criteria. Damen found that the vessel's movements actually became calmer as the speed increased.
“This is because the forward energy of the vessel allows it to go through the waves, instead of going over them,” said Damen product portfolio manager for research Albert Rijkens. “At the same time, the Sea Axe bow shape reduces any uncomfortable slamming that might occur during high-speed transits,” he added.
Another aspect of testing was the vessel's resistance at speed. “Our results showed that, due to its long and narrow hull, the FCS 7011 has relatively low resistance,” said Mr Rijkens.
Positioned at the stern of the model, the FCS 7011's ride control system, which measures ship mevement and continuously determines the position of active control mechanisms through these signals, was also put through its paces. “The effectiveness of the system – enabling us to improve comfort levels even further – was also validated in these tests,” added Mr Rijkens.
The FCS 7011 is intended to fill the gap between current crew change vessels and helicopters, and will be able to carry up to 150 passengers at speeds of up to 40 knots.
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