Ocean Network Express (ONE) and ClassNK have launched a joint research project to assess the effectiveness of roll damping tanks (RDTs) on large container ships using onboard measurement data from vessels in ONE’s fleet.
ClassNK will analyse the operational data alongside simulations to assess roll reduction performance under actual operating and sea conditions.
RDTs reduce a vessel’s rolling motion through the controlled movement of liquid within a tank. For large containerships, reducing roll can lower forces acting on containers and their securing systems, while potentially allowing more efficient stowage and greater loading flexibility.
Performance of RDTs on large container ships has typically been assessed through model tests and numerical simulations, with full-scale verification using onboard measurements under actual operating conditions remaining limited.
“We are pleased to work with ONE to verify the effectiveness of RDTs based on data obtained from actual vessel operations,” said Kumi Miyashita, Corporate Officer, ClassNK.
“Through the combination of full-scale measurement data and numerical analysis, we aim to contribute to safer and more efficient vessel operations by establishing a reliable basis for evaluating RDT performance under actual operating and sea conditions.”
ONE Vice President of Global Vessel Operations Masaharu Urabe said the research would aim to establish a methodology for quantifying RDT effectiveness under actual operating conditions.
“We believe that the knowledge gained through this research will further enhance the safety of our vessel operations while contributing to improved container stowage efficiency and loading capability,” he said.
