What are some examples of successful hull form optimization projects?

1 Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are large and complex vessels that have to balance the demands of passenger comfort, safety, and entertainment with the requirements of speed, economy, and environmental impact. Hull form optimization can help cruise ships achieve these goals by reducing their resistance, wake, and wave-making effects, as well as improving their seakeeping and propulsion efficiency. One example of a cruise ship that underwent hull form optimization is the Celebrity Edge, which was launched in 2018. The Celebrity Edge features a novel parabolic ultrabow that reduces bow wave and spray, as well as a bulbous bow that optimizes the flow around the hull. The hull form optimization resulted in a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions compared to previous cruise ships of the same class.

2 Container Ships

Container ships are the workhorses of global trade, transporting millions of tons of goods across the oceans every year. They face the challenges of increasing cargo capacity, reducing fuel consumption, and complying with environmental regulations. Hull form optimization can help container ships overcome these challenges by enhancing their cargo volume, hydrodynamic efficiency, and propeller performance. One example of a container ship that benefited from hull form optimization is the Maersk Triple E, which was introduced in 2013. The Maersk Triple E features a longer and wider hull form that maximizes its cargo space, as well as a twin-skeg stern that improves its propeller efficiency and reduces its wake. The hull form optimization resulted in a 35% increase in cargo capacity and a 50% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions per container compared to previous container ships of the same size.

3 Naval Ships

Naval ships are designed to perform various missions and roles, such as combat, surveillance, and support. They have to meet the demands of high speed, stealth, and agility, as well as survivability and reliability. Hull form optimization can help naval ships achieve these demands by minimizing their drag, noise, and radar cross-section, as well as maximizing their maneuverability and stability. One example of a naval ship that underwent hull form optimization is the Zumwalt-class destroyer, which was commissioned in 2016. The Zumwalt-class destroyer features a unique tumblehome hull form that reduces its wave resistance and signature, as well as a stern flap that enhances its propulsion efficiency and control. The hull form optimization resulted in a 30% increase in speed and a 50% reduction in radar cross-section compared to previous destroyers of the same class.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?