ClassNK: New Software System for Container Carriers

January 18, 2016

(PRESS RELEASE) ClassNK released its new structural design support system PrimeShip-HULL for Container Carriers to correspond with its latest rule amendments. To promote container carrier safety, ClassNK released amendments to its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships on December 25, 2015. The amendments, based on findings from ClassNK’s investigation into a large container carrier casualty, include updates to independent longitudinal strength requirements and reflect the new IACS Unified Requirements (UR) S11A and S34. These amendments will apply to container carriers contracted for construction on or after 1 April 2016, three months before the application of the IACS UR S11A and S34.

In a further demonstration of its unwavering commitment to safety, ClassNK developed PrimeShip-HULL for Container Carriers to correspond with its latest rule amendments. The powerful total design support tool further increases the efficiency and quality of container carrier structural design and was developed based on PrimeShip-HULL (HCSR) which supports the safe design of bulk carriers and oil tankers compliant with the IACS Common Structural Rules for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (CSR BC & OT).

Key features of PrimeShip-HULL for Container Carriers include:

• Rule calculation software capable of quickly performing longitudinal strength assessments on cross sections, including the bench structures specific to container carriers. Such assessments may be performed on cargo holds, engine rooms, and the fore and aft parts of the ship.

• Direct strength calculation software capable of efficiently performing yield strength and buckling strength assessments of the analysis on holds. With the aim of reducing man-hours, the system can propose appropriate reinforcement plans based on sensitivity analysis and has a strong data linkage function with NAPA’s 3D CAD ship design software NAPA Steel.

• Direct strength calculation software that takes into consideration the effects of whipping*, sea pressure and container loads in line with ClassNK’s independent longitudinal strength requirements.

As a non-profit society that is dedicated to supporting the advancement of the maritime industry, ClassNK offers PrimeShip-HULL for Container Carriers to all of its clients completely free of charge.