Naval Architect JB Marine Consultancy Naval Architect  

Tel / Fax +44 (0)1481 253053    Mobile Tel: 07781 100621    Email: john@jbmarine.biz

Stability Analysis

Inclining Tests            MCA Stability Books            RCD-ISO12217

Passenger Ferries            Workboats            Harmonised Code            RCD            RIB Self-righting.

Probably the most common reasons for wanting to know about the stability of a vessel are for Code compliance, either with MCA Passenger, Workboat or Harmonised Code compliance, or for the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) compliance.

JB can undertake the stability analysis to meet your requirements. We have substantial experience in this area, particularly with MCA Codes of Practice (commercial vessels) MCA Passenger Vessels (New EU Pax' code regulations), RCD ISO 12217 Technical Files and some more unusual forensic stability analysis (involving fishing vessels).

The process is generally as follows:

• Take offsets of your hull to create a lines plan (JB used Digital & Laser equipment for speed and accuracy), or working from your lines plan or table of offsets if you have them. This is necessary to establish the buoyant geometry of the craft.

• Inclining Test or heel test, depending on the compliance requirements. We can 'incline' your vessel to determine the centre of gravity location used in the stability analysis. 

• Weight assessment and weights-on/weights-off in order to establish the lightship displacement and other loading conditions of the craft, this is usually part of the inclining test procedure.

• Stability analysis using the Maxsurf/Hydromax CAD software. This will include analysis of righting lever/moment, freeboard requirements, downflooding height and downflooding angle, etc...

In some cases a full inclining test is not required, in which case either a 'tilt-test' or other practical tests may be carried-out. Contact JB if you want to establish the requirements necessary for your craft.

Stability Information Book

We have experience working with the MCA on Stability information book approval, as well as with the RCD Technical File documentation.

Click here if you would like further information regarding the stability requirements of the Recreational Craft Directive.

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