Hydrodynamic interaction forces on different ship types under various operating conditions in restricted waters

Abstract

To accurately understand the behavior of ships sailing in restricted waterways, it is necessary to scientifically analyze the influence of the bank effect on the hydrodynamic force of a ship. In this study, the water depth to draft ratio, distance between the wall and ship, speed of the ship, and loading condition are classified as factors influencing the confined water effect. Numerical analyses were performed on two different very large vessels to investigate the effects of the factors on hydrodynamic interaction using CFD. The sway force was gradually decreased as the water became shallower. The sway force acted on the container ship as a repulsion force in the very shallow water. The roll and yaw moments acted as the greatest hydrodynamic forces in the very shallow water. For the tanker, the direction of the yaw moment changed to bow-in as the speed increased. The effect of hydrodynamic force on the vessel is different depending on the loading condition, navigation area, and speed of the vessel. Comprehensive considerations and countermeasures according to ship type must be prepared to ensure the safe navigation of ships.