Ride Control for Fast Patrol Boats
01 Nov 2004
Ride control specialist VTMaritime Dynamics Inc (VTMD) has won the contract to supply the stabilisation systems for the advanced Skjold Class fast patrol boats being built for the Royal Norwegian Navy .
The US based subsidiary of the VT Group supplied and fitted the ride control system (RCS) for the first of class vessel that spent four years undergoing evaluation.
Following the success of this initial craft, a further five Skjold Class surface effect ships (SES) will be built at Umoe Mandal in Norway. They will all be fitted with VTMD ride control and stern fan systems, while the initial vessel will be refitted extensively. The 47m boats are built for high speed and manoeuvrability, attaining a maximum speed of more than 100 kilometres per hour.
Main propulsion is by waterjet driven by gas turbine engines. The vessels' minimal draft means they will be able to operate effectively in shallow coastal waters.
Surface effect ships operate on an air cushion that carries the main part of the vessel's weight.
Because of the high speed requirement, the Skjold Class will carry no underwater appendages such as would be found in most ride control systems. The alternative solution is an RCS that monitors and regulates the pressure of the air cushion by controlling vent valves, which reduce accelerations and mitigate crew fatigue.
The stern fan system controls the stern seal pressure. During high speed operation incorrect pressure in the stern seal can result in instability which can decrease vessel performance.
VTMD's scope of supply includes the RCS controller, vent valves, stern boot fans and hydraulic actuation mechanisms.
The company also supplies advanced motion control systems for high speed commercial passenger craft.
MJ Information No 20020
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