Engine/hull interaction examined

摘要

With the development and marketing of slow-running diesel engines offering higher power concentrations than the 68 000kW-plus (93 000bhp-plus) obtainable from the most potent, 12-cylinder machines currently in production, some concern has been expressed as to whether coupled engine-hull deflections will remain within tolerable limits for such massive installations in larger containerships. Furthermore, questions have arisen over the influence of higher implied vibration loads not only on the engine structure itself, but also on the adjacent aftship structure. Germanischer Lloyd, with a major stake in containership classification and an active role in technological research and development, has addressed these issues by examining engine/hull interaction under both static and dynamic conditions, and investigating the scope for a more integrated, optimised approach to installation design.