Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV) Icebreaker Test and Evaluation Program. Volume I. Executive Summary

摘要

During the winter ice season, November 1977 through March 1978, the U.S. Coast Guard R&D Center, Avery Point, Connecticut, conducted an operational test program to evaluate air cushion vehicles as icebreakers. The vehicles used were the MACKACE ACV barge and the self-propelled LACV-30. Tests were conducted on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers with operations centered around Peoria, Illinois. The MACKACE ACV was used solely to facilitate river commerce while the LACV-30 was used in this role and also for flood control purposes. Extensive operational tests were conducted which produced data concerning icebreaking techniques and the effects of icebreaking on river commerce. Tests also established information on design criteria for ACV icebreakers, their maneuverabilty and control, operating costs and impact on Coast Guard personnel and facilities. As a result of the test program, significant advances were made in understanding ACV icebreaking procedures. The characteristics of ice were studied, and the necessity for developing ice classification and an icebreaking effectiveness methodology was identified. (Author)