New SNAME Technical Report Sets Guidelines For Small Boat Stability Testing

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA, USA - SNAME has published a new technical report with guidelines for testing a small boat’s lightcraft weight and center of gravity characteristics.

Standard Guide for Conducting Small Boat Air-Inclining Stability Test: (Lightweight Survey and Air Inclining Test to Determine Lightweight and Centers of Gravity) covers the determination of a small boat’s lightcraft weight and center of gravity characteristics, expanding on the guidance given in ASTM F3052 (2014).

The procedure consists of two separate tasks: a scale weighing/deadweight survey that determines the weight and longitudinal center of the craft; and an air-inclining experiment that determines the vertical center of gravity.

Although not required, the inclining test is strongly recommended for small craft upon their construction completion and/or after major conversions, especially for a first of class or type that will be subject to stability analysis and/or whose weights will be monitored for stability compliance.

Standard Guide for Conducting Small Boat Air-Inclining Stability Test: (Lightweight Survey and Air Inclining Test to Determine Lightweight and Centers of Gravity) was developed under the Small Craft Committee of SNAME, in conjunction with the SNAME Ship Design Committee’s Ship Stability Panel.

Identified as Technical and Research Bulletin 9-1, the 29 page report has been published electronically. Click here to order online (US $40, $20 for SNAME members) or contact Kristin Walker, kwalker@sname.org or 1+703.997.6710.

SNAME is an internationally recognized non-profit professional society of individual members serving the maritime and offshore industries and their suppliers. Founded in 1893, the Society comprises over 6,000 individuals worldwide. Membership is open to all qualified applicants. For membership information, visit the SNAME web site.