The alignment of the propulsion shafting system is vital to ensure safe and efficient operation of ship. As ships increase in size and engine output, the complexity of their propulsion systems also grows, making precise alignment more challenging. Tra...
The alignment of the propulsion shafting system is vital to ensure safe and efficient operation of ship. As ships increase in size and engine output, the complexity of their propulsion systems also grows, making precise alignment more challenging. Traditional alignment methods often fail to account for hull deflection caused by various operational conditions, leading to uneven bearing loads, excessive vibration, and potential bearing failures. This study aims to address these issues by analyzing the effects of hull deflection on bearing reaction forces in a large scale oil tanker.
In this study, shaft alignment analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of hull deformation under six different loading conditions, ranging from dry docking to fully loaded states. By simulating these conditions, the study assesses how hull deflection impacts the distribution of bearing reaction forces along the propulsion shaft.
Initial analysis, without considering hull deflection, indicated satisfactory alignment under typical operational conditions. However, when hull deflection was factored in, significant variations in bearing loads were observed under certain loading conditions. These variations highlighted the potential for bearing overloads or underloads, which could lead to premature wear or failure.
The study proposes an optimized bearing offset configuration to mitigate these issues. By adjusting the offsets of intermediate shaft bearings, the alignment is refined to maintain balanced bearing loads across all operational conditions. The results demonstrate that considering hull deflection in shaft alignment processes significantly enhances the reliability and safety of the propulsion system.
This research underscores the importance of incorporating hull deflection data into the design and alignment of propulsion shafting systems for large vessels. The findings provide a foundation for improved alignment practices, ensuring the longevity and performance of ship propulsion systems in varied operational environments.