Author(s): A. Freitas; J. Schwarz

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Abstract: A new type of icebreaker, based on a concept by Dr. H. Waas, has been developed and tested at the Hamburgische Schiffbau-Versuchsanstalt (HSVA). The new technique aims at the elimination or reduction of the factors contributing to ice resistance. This is achieved by fracturing the ice through shear stressing rather than by bending and by creating an ice-free channel. The main features of the concept are a pontoon shaped bow wider than the beam of the vessel, the V-shaped bottom of the forebody after the pontoon bow and an auxiliary mechanical propulsion system installed in the foreship. The WAAS concept is expected to have many advantages over existing designs, such as lower ice resistance, improved performance in heavy ice and reduced risk of damage to hull and propeller due to the ice-free channel. The special characteristics and the high performance of the WAAS icebreaker have been established in a series of tests carried out in the ice model basin of the HSVA. The Thyssen Nordseewerke, Emden, together with the HSVA are developing an icebreaking tanker based on the WAAS concept for operation under arctic conditions.

DOI:

Year: 1978