Stability of North Sea barges

Abstract

Barges have long been the one of the preferred method of transportation of heavy objects at sea because of their large capacity and versatile design. This thesis addresses the main issues related to the the stability of barges. Having a good understanding ofwhat increases and reduces the stability can give knowledge into how to improve the performance and find the limiting transport capacity. The thesis reviews the central literature topics in relevant stability theory. This includes; Fundamental hydrostatics, initial and intact stability, relevant standards and heeling moments. The analysis was performed by applying hydrostatic principles and computer simulation using the programHydroD, finding out how design and loading condition changed the stability characteristics of the barge. By analysing the changes in stability characteristics for different loading conditions the limiting criteria for compliance with regulations were found. The results of this thesis can provide the reader with an insight into how the stability of a barge changes with dimensions, loading and damaged conditions.