Section 3 Appraisal of Test Conditions for Stability Aspects

3.1 The stability characteristics of the test conditions output by the program will be compared with the values contained in the equivalent conditions from the approved Loading Manual, Trim and Stability booklet, and/or Grain Loading Manual as appropriate. If unexplained differences occur, the supplier will be required to investigate those discrepancies and advise LR. In cases where the program uses calculation methods and data that is not included in the approved booklet, this will need to be verified. If calibrated tank data/trimmed hydrostatic data etc. has been used, a copy of data input into the program must be submitted for validation.

3.2 In those cases where a program has the capability to use either fixed or calibrated tank data then the test conditions submitted must be generated using both options. A copy of the tank calibrations should be forwarded for review.

3.3 Where limiting KG/GM data are utilised in the program for the assessment of loading conditions against damage stability criteria, full details of the pre-programmed limiting KG/GM curves, as approved by or on behalf of the flag administration, are to be submitted so that a detailed check can be made with the results output by the program.

3.4 When the program is capable of calculating damage stability to show compliance of loading conditions against statutory regulations, the program is, in addition to the requirements for the output of intact stability, to be capable of calculating and printing, for the final damage equilibrium state, the draught, trim, heel and residual freeboard to deck edge and/or nearest downflooding opening leading to an intact space, as appropriate. The residual GZ distribution is also to be produced for the final flooding stage for each case showing compliance with the relevant damage stability criteria. Intermediate flooding stages, are to be similarly well documented. Software with the capability of carrying out such calculations would be expected to be programmed with a computer hullform and compartment model.

3.5 The damage cases are to be pre-programmed and should include the most onerous envisaged in service for the vessel under consideration and cover all possible combinations, whatever the loading condition, thus eliminating the need for users to investigate additional damage cases.

3.6 Examination of the damage stability calculation aspects of the program will only be carried out at the owner’s request. However any cargo loading conditions produced using the program which are not included in the approved stability manual are to be submitted for approval from damage stability aspects by or on behalf of the flag administration prior to loading the vessel to that condition. Any additional test conditions required to verify the damage stability calculations will be nominated by the office responsible for the examination.