ONE and ClassNK Study Roll Damping Tanks on Large Containerships

Container shipping giant Ocean Network Express (ONE) and classification society ClassNK have initiated a collaborative research project to evaluate the effectiveness of roll damping tanks (RDTs) on large container ships under actual operating and sea conditions. This study aims to provide practical insights into the performance of RDTs and enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Research Objectives

The primary objective of this joint research project is to measure the roll reduction performance of RDTs installed on large container ships. According to ClassNK, the study will combine full-scale measurement data collected from vessels in ONE's fleet with numerical simulations to quantify the effectiveness of RDTs. The goal is to establish a reliable basis for evaluating RDT performance under real operating and sea conditions.

Methodology and Data Collection

ONE will provide operational data collected from its vessels, which will be combined with numerical simulations conducted by ClassNK. The data will include measurements of rolling motion, forces acting on containers, and other relevant parameters. This approach will help in understanding the practical benefits of RDTs and their potential to improve cargo safety and vessel operations.

Marine Link reports that the effectiveness of RDTs on large container ships has so far primarily been assessed through model testing and numerical simulations. The current study aims to address this gap by using onboard measurement data under actual operating conditions. ClassNK will leverage its extensive experience in testing, numerical simulation, and technical analysis to evaluate the data provided by ONE.

Benefits and Impact

The deployment of RDTs can significantly reduce excessive rolling motion on large container ships, thereby enhancing cargo safety and stability. Excessive rolling can increase forces on containers and their securing systems, potentially leading to cargo damage or structural issues. By optimising RDT performance, ONE and ClassNK aim to improve cargo safety and operational reliability.

The research will also examine the potential benefits of RDTs in terms of vessel operations, container stowage efficiency, and loading capability. According to Container News, the study will provide practical insights into the performance of RDTs and better understand their effectiveness in full-scale operations. This can lead to safer and more efficient vessel operations, contributing to a more resilient and stable supply chain.

Future Applications and Expansion

The findings from this research could have broader implications for the maritime industry, particularly for container shipping. If the effectiveness of RDTs is confirmed, it could encourage wider adoption of the technology across the sector. The study's results will be valuable for shipowners, operators, and classification societies in making informed decisions about the installation and optimisation of RDTs on their vessels.

ClassNK's Corporate Officer, Kumi Miyashita, stated, "We are pleased to work with ONE to verify the effectiveness of RDTs based on data obtained from actual vessel operations. Through the combination of full-scale measurement data and numerical analysis, we aim to contribute to safer and more efficient vessel operations."

What this Means for Operators

The successful completion of this study will provide ship operators with concrete data to support the implementation of RDTs on their vessels. The findings could lead to improved vessel stability, reduced cargo damage, and enhanced operational efficiency. This, in turn, can contribute to safer and more reliable maritime transportation, benefiting both shipping companies and their customers.

The collaboration between ONE and ClassNK exemplifies the industry's commitment to advancing maritime safety and efficiency through innovative research and technology. As the study progresses, operators can anticipate practical guidelines and best practices for the effective use of RDTs, fostering a safer and more resilient shipping environment.