Analysis Computational Fluid Dynamics in a State of Ballast Loading on a Passenger Ship Prototype

Abstract

Indonesia, as the largest archipelagic country in the world, has a very favourable geographical position because it is located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. The background of this research stems from the critical importance of effectively managing ballast loading on passenger ships to ensure stability, safety, and operational efficiency during voyages. Traditionally, methods for assessing ballast loading have often relied on empirical formulas or simplified models, which may not fully capture the complex fluid dynamics and structural interactions inherent in modern ship designs. This gap highlights the need for advanced computational tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which can provide a more detailed and accurate analysis of how ballast loading affects the ship’s behaviour. CFD simulations offer the capability to model and analyse complex flow patterns, pressure distributions, and structural responses under various ballasting scenarios. By leveraging CFD, this research aims to enhance understanding and optimize the management of ballast loading on passenger ships, thereby addressing the limitations of traditional methods and advancing the state-of-the-art in maritime engineering practices. The simulation was carried out at different speeds, namely 1 knot, 10 knots, and 20 knots. When moving at a speed of 1 knot, the obstacles encountered have a range of 30–40 cm/s and a maximum speed of 83.0971 cm/s. Likewise, when moving at a speed of 10 knots, the obstacle has a range of 200–400 cm/s and a maximum speed of 766.921 cm/s. Finally, at a speed of 20 knots, facing obstacles with speeds ranging from 400 to 800 cm/s and a maximum speed of 1504.56 cm/s, the ship’s hull remained unaffected in terms of damage. However, the fluid speed magnifies the occurrence of friction.