Design of a submarine main ballast tank flood and vent openings mechanisms

Abstract

Besides the piping systems used for blowing the main ballast tanks of a submarine by feeding compressed air, a great importance must be given to the flood and vent openings and the mechanisms that operate the covers. From an engineering standpoint, the flood openings must be as small as possible to minimize the noise generated by the water flow.Their number and cumulated area must be determied as to avoid over pressure when feeding compressed air into the ballast tanks that may lead to structural damage. The requirements for designing of such systems are covered by the Class and Administration rules and regulations.

Keywords

• submarine, submerged vehicle, ballast system, main ballast tank, flood port cover, vent opening cover, rotary vane actuator.