In 1989 the Berlin Model Basin (VWS) started an R&D program for the development of a systematic series of hard chine catamarans. The series was intended to investigate the hydrodynamics of high-speed passenger and cargo catamarans of 20 to 60+ m length operating at speeds of 35 to 45 kt. Four length-to-beam ratios of the demihulls were tested (L_(WL)/B_(WLDH) = 7.55, 9.55, 11.55 and 13.55), with three midship deadrises (β_M = 38°, 27° and 16°) and different hull forms (symmetric, semi-symmetric and asymmetric hard chine forms and round bilge designs), afterbodies and propulsion configurations (fully wetted controllable and fixed-pitched propellers, surface piercing propellers and water-jets). An enormous quantity of data was gathered during 443 resistance tests and 132 self-propulsion tests carried out with relatively large models of between 3.6 and 5.1 m length, at speeds of up to 11 m/s. Tests were performed .over a wide speed range, ranging from hump to planing speeds. Due to space limitations, only grouped results of the (so called) standard configuration (consisting of 12 models) are presented, although some non-standard configurations are also discussed. An immense stock of data are represented by the mathematical models — obtained through regression analysis -for resistance, trim, hull-propulsor interaction coefficients and delivered power. The tests and results were validated for trial conditions and thus are believed to be reliable.
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