Ocean Network Express Ltd. (ONE) and Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) have launched a joint research project to evaluate the effectiveness of roll damping tanks (RDTs) on large container ships. ONE will provide onboard measurement data from its vessels. ClassNK will then analyse the data alongside numerical simulations to assess roll reduction performance under actual operating conditions.
The research aims to provide practical insights into the performance of RDTs, and better understand their effectiveness in full-scale operations. By optimizing RDTs performance, ONE and ClassNK aim to further enhance cargo safety and transit reliability. It will ensure a more resilient and stable supply chain for its customers worldwide.
The controlled movement of liquid within a tank enables RDTs to reduce a ship’s rolling motion. Long established on passenger ships, research vessels, and other specialized vessels, their application to container ships has increased in recent years.
About RDTs and Their Growing Use on Container Ships
Roll reduction matters for large container ships as excessive rolling can increase the forces acting on containers and their securing systems. Effective roll reduction can support safer vessel operation and cargo transportation. It can allow more efficient stowage and improved operational flexibility.
Despite the growing application of RDTs, researchers have primarily used model tests and numerical simulations to evaluate their roll reduction performance on large container ships. Full-scale verification based on onboard measurements under actual operating and sea conditions remains limited.
To help address this gap, ONE will provide operational data collected from vessels in its fleet. Meanwhile, ClassNK will apply its extensive experience in testing, numerical simulation, and technical analysis to evaluate the data. ONE and ClassNK aim to build a clearer understanding of RDT performance on large container ships under real-world operating conditions.
Kumi Miyashita, Corporate Officer, ClassNK, says, “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 data and analysis, we aim to contribute to safer and more efficient vessel operations by establishing a reliable basis for evaluating RDT performance under actual operating and sea conditions.”
Masaharu Urabe, Vice President of Global Vessel Operations, Ocean Network Express, says, “We are pleased to collaborate with ClassNK on this important research initiative. We aim to establish a practical methodology for quantifying the effectiveness of RDTs under actual operating conditions. We believe that the knowledge gained through this research will further enhance the safety of our vessel operations. It will contribute to improved container stowage efficiency and loading capability.”
Shaping a Safer Maritime Future
ONE and ClassNK will continue to share operational data and technical expertise to drive innovation. It will contribute to a safer, more reliable, efficient future for container shipping and the broader maritime industry.
