ClassNK and shipbuilders start joint research project

AUGUST 13, 2012 — Tokyo headquartered classification society ClassNK (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai) has started full scale ship tests to develop a feedback scheme on the design for ships’ performances in actual seas.

The tests are being carried out in collaboration with Imabari Shipbuilding and Sayonas Shipbuilding. During this joint research project, the energy saving operation support system “ClassNK-NAPA GREEN,” developed by ClassNK in cooperation with NAPA of Finland, will be installed in ships built by the two shipbuilders and its effectiveness will be verified. Feedback obtained from gathering and analyzing the data obtained will be used to help with a total optimization of performance in regard to fuel efficiency not only in calm seas but also in actual seas.

Though shipyards confirm ships’ performances in calm seas on sea trials of newly built ships, it remains difficult to correctly understand performances in actual seas and draft conditions after the ships have entered service.

The joint study will analyze information obtained during real life operations with ClassNK-NAPA GREEN, giving a better understanding of the relationship between draft, trim, main engine output, vessel speed and marine weather information etc. This will be used to develop an upgraded ship design, improving performance in actual seas.