Students learn basic model test competences in our facilities

We help introduce future naval architects to model tests as a scientific method for performing analysis and solving problems.

4 April 2017

As a part of their education, the future naval architects from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) participate in a practical course, where they perform model tests in our towing tank. The purpose of the course is to give the students an introduction to model testing techniques as a scientific method for analysing and solving problems. After completing the course, the students are able to analyse a ship’s prolusion and determine which necessary propulsion effects proves most effective.

According to the students, the practical tests in the towing tank give them a better understanding of how a ship reacts. Previous to the tests, the students calculate resistance and propulsion in still waters.

By performing propulsion tests they are then able to confirm or deny their hypotheses. Afterwards they compare the results to CFD calculations based on the same conditions as in the towing tank.

Retrofit of a bulbous bow

Another part of the course deals with retrofit of a bulbous bow. The students model two different bulbous bows and afterwards they test them in the towing tank to determine which bow is best suited for the ship based on the conditions.

We have collaborated on this course with DTU for many years. The students participate in all phases of the model test; planning, preparing the ship for the tests, controlling the tests from the computer and finally analysing the results and writing a report.