Vision 2012/1 - Rolls-Royce

Maximum waterline length/less resistance
24 o 18 o
which has a calm water resistance from 15%
to 45% less than state-of-the-art traditional
forms of 20 and 22m beam over the relevant
speed range, and maintains its advantage
also in a seaway.
Spreading the results of basic research over
several application areas allows more very
detailed R&D to be done. The work includes
CFD analysis of possible forms, detailed
investigation of promising candidates, and
verification by tank testing. The design and
test iteration is also used to improve
prediction accuracy in general. By carrying
out CFD work as if the mathematical model
was the same size as the physical tank model,
small discrepancies between methods can
be identified, and either eliminated or
allowed for. The result is more accurate
predictions at an early stage in the design
process.
Wave piercing. The company’s wave
piercing technology is a good example of
this work. The winning of orders for vessels
demonstrates the effectiveness of the
approach. This does not mean a ’one size fits
all’ attitude – instead the underlying research
is applied in different ways to achieve the
qualities needed for the customer’s
application. For instance, Farstad has placed
an order for a UT 754 WP design and systems
package. This is a high capacity PSV, 91.6m
long, and about 5,700 tonnes deadweight,
capable of carrying 3,200 tonnes on deck.
The notation WP denotes a UT-series vessel
with the new wave-piercing bow, designed
to allow higher speeds through waves. The
upper portion comes into effect in severe
head seas, shedding green water and
keeping spray off the wheelhouse. At the
same time, the full beneficial effect of the
bulbous bow is gained in a hullform that is
easily driven despite its wide beam and large
capacity, giving low fuel consumption over a
range of transit speeds.
14 VISION 1/12