A Computational Approach to the Prediction of the Floating Condition of ROPAX Vessel after Firewater Accumulation in Firefighting Operation

Abstract

A reliable estimation of the floating condition of a roll on/roll off cargo (ROPAX) vessel after the accumulation of firewater on the vehicle deck is extremely important for making correct decisions on evacuation and abandonment. Thus, for the seafarer working on a ROPAX vessel, there is a demand for a time-dependent prediction of the floating condition of the vessel after the firewater accumulation. For this purpose, a new iterative computational approach, based on quasi-static theory, is presented. The approach is examined through the records observed in an accident of the M/V Dashun. The results show that the approach has good accuracy and feasibility provided that the actual heeling angle and cargo shift during the accident are carefully monitored.

Keywords

• firewater accumulation
• floating condition of ropax vessel
• cargo shift
• a critical static heeling angle