Ship manoeuvrability tests at sea are essential tests carried out before a ship is delivered to its owner or enters service. These tests enable you to evaluate the boat’s performance in terms of its response to maneuver and propulsion controls, ensuring compliance with the safety and operational standards established by international organizations such as the IMO (International Maritime Organization) Administration, and Class Society.
Objectives of manoeuvrability tests
- Check the performance of the boat in various manoeuvres under real sea conditions.
- Check the effectiveness of the timing and propulsion systems.
- Evaluate response times and turning radios under different conditions.
- Comply with IMO regulations and ISO 19019 standards, which establish maneuverability criteria.
Main maneuverability tests
Turning Circle Test
- It consists of putting the steering wheel in a fixed position (generally 35° to the starboard) and observing the ship’s tray.
- If you support the turning radius, move forward and fall sideways.
- It is carried out in both directions and at different speeds.
Zigzag test (Zig-Zag Test or Kempf Test)
- Evaluates the ship’s capacity to correct its course quickly.
- A series of alternative steering gears is ordered, for example, with 10° on one side and 10° on the opposite side.
- Measure the time and distance it takes for the boat to come to a stable position.
Stopping Test or Crash Stop Test
- Determines the distance and the time it takes for the boat to stop entirely from a given speed.
- It is carried out by applying propulsion control all the way to the stern and observing the braking tray or complete stop.
Steering Gear Response Test (Pull-Out Test or Spiral Test)
- Analyze the directional stability of the boat.
- The steering wheel is placed in a predetermined position, and the boat is measured and maintains a stable direction or continues to rotate.
Acceleration and Deceleration Test
- It allows you to evaluate the boat’s performance by increasing and reducing its speed.
Acceleration and Deceleration Test
Simulates maneuvers in channels, ports, or congested traffic areas to assess the ship’s ability to control in confined spaces.
Factors that influence maneuverability
- Hull and roof design
- Power and type of propulsion (conventional propeller, azimuthal propellers, maneuver thrusters, etc.)
- Environmental conditions (wind, waves, current)
- Load and weight distribution on board
Importance of tests
Maneuverability tests ensure that the ship is safe and efficient during navigation, enabling you to correct any potential errors before commencing the operations. Furthermore, it complies with international regulations that establish minimum performance standards to prevent accidents and enhance operational safety at sea.
At SOUTHERN OCEAN MARINE ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS, we plan, coordinate, and supervise tests at sea for new constructions, refits, and performance evaluations.
We guarantee compliance with safety, regulatory, and technical standards to ensure optimal ship performance.
Analysis of fleet performance data to improve efficiency, reliability, and operational capabilities. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
