Tor Einar Berg

Technological and environmental challenges of Arctic shipping - a case study of a fictional voyage in the Arctic

Shipping in Arctic seas is challenging and poses an environmental risk. This paper presents a fictional case involving a multipurpose supply vessel transporting one large object (a 750-tonne compressor) and 24 containers loaded with chemicals and equipment for use by the petroleum industry in western Siberia. With technical details representative of vessels navigating the Arctic today, the fictitious ship Oleum has an ice class sufficient for navigating unaccompanied in the Barents and Kara seas, so no assistance is in range when, in late October, clogged fuel filters cause engine failure and the vessel eventually drifts ashore. Heeling over, Oleum loses both cargo and marine diesel oil. The scenario includes a successful helicopter rescue of the 16 crewmembers and a partial recovery of oil and chemicals by booms and skimmers. Recovery of chemicals with physical properties not allowing mechanical collection is not attempted. The scenario ends as the abandoned wreck is broken down at the stranding location, and containers rupture and discharge their cargo. The scenario postulates a moderate and short-lived environmental impact. The most visible effects of the grounding are the hull itself, the compressor and the spreading effects and degradation of oil and chemicals unmanageable for the clean-up operations.

Validation of Shiphandling Simulation Models

This paper describes the need for improved methods for validating numerical models used in shiphandling simulators. Such models vary in complexity, from rather simplistic models used for initial shiphandling training at maritime training centers to high-quality models used in the study of advanced marine operations. High-quality simulation models are also used in investigations of maritime accidents such as collisions and groundings. The SIMMAN 2008 conference presented the results of benchmarking studies of simulation tools currently used by research institutes, universities and training centers around the world. Many of these tools employ models based on numerical calculations using methods based on potential or viscous fluid flow, experiments using scale ship models (free running or captive) or semi empirical expressions based on regression analysis of previous model tests. The organizers of SIMMAN 2008 made the hull characteristics of certain ship types available for a comparative study of simulation maneuvering models. The outcome of the benchmark study (using IMO standard maneuvers as case study maneuvers) showed that simulated results varied significantly. In the opinion of the authors, there is an urgent need for new validation studies. The first part of this paper discusses the concepts of simulation model fidelity, verification and validation and the present guidelines issued by ITTC for validation of maneuvering simulation models. The second part looks at the outcomes of the SIMMAN 2008 conference and describes MARINTEK’s contribution to the benchmark study. The use of real-world measurements in model validation is briefly discussed. The need for registration of actual test conditions, as well as the types of tests that should be included in a test scheme, are presented. Finally, the authors discuss validation requirements with respect to the actual application of the selected simulation model as an engineering tool that can be transferred to training simulators used by maritime training centers. It is assumed that simplified simulation models may reduce the quality of simulator based training for ship officers. It is believed that increased quality of simulator model will improve the transfer of training from simulators to real life operations and remove some of the uncertainties related to investigation of maritime accidents.Copyright

Time Domain Simulation Model for Research Vessel Gunnerus

A research vessel (RV) plays an important role in many fields such as oceanography, fisheries and polar research, hydrographic surveys, and oil exploration. It also has a unique function in maritime research and developments. Full-scale sea trials that require vessels, are usually extremely expensive; however, research vessels are more available than other types of ship. This paper presents the results of a time-domain simulation model of R/V Gunnerus, the research vessel of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), using MARINTEK’s vessel simulator (VeSim). VeSim is a time-domain simulator which solves dynamic equations of vessel motions and takes care of seakeeping and manoeuvring problems simultaneously. In addition to a set of captive and PMM tests on a scale model of Gunnerus, full-scale sea trials are carried out in both calm and harsh weather and the proposed simulation model is validated against sea trial data.Copyright

Safety at Sea: Improving Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations in the Barents Sea

In this paper, we select some of the crucial issues for future search and rescue (SAR) operations in the Barents Sea. The different nations that are involved and the resources necessary to build emergency preparedness due to the climatic conditions are thus important factors. This paper summarizes the state of the art within these areas while also indicating future development needs. The special requirements for life saving equipment on vessels due to the climate and requirement on personal protective equipment related to accidental immersion are also essential and thus presented in this paper. In addition, safe haven designs where the vessel itself is designed to provide shelter for personnel in distress is also a topic chosen to be addressed.Copyright

Maritime Operations and Emergency Preparedness in the Arctic-Competence Standards for Search and Rescue Operations Contingencies in Polar Waters

Emergencies on large passenger ships in the remote High North may lead to a mass rescue operation with a heavy strain on the emergency preparedness systems of the Arctic countries. This study focuses on the need for competencies related to large-scale Search and Rescue operations (SAR operations) amongst the shipping companies, vessels and governments involved. A SAR operation is the activity related to finding and rescuing people in distress. Several international standards, in particular the conventions by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), provide direction for education and training of seafarers and rescue staff. This study elaborates on the operational competence requirements for key personnel involved in large scale SAR operations. Findings from real SAR incidents and exercises provide in-depth understanding on the operational challenges. The chapter gives directions for competence programs, beyond obligatory international standards, and recommendations for further research.

Drifting Paths of Disabled Vessels

Many maritime emergency situations involve drifting vessels, and tools to predict drifting patterns have been developed by meteorology institutes, class societies and research companies. It is important to be able to predict a vessel’s drifting path and to estimate when it will drift into waters where grounding is a possible outcome. Such a prediction tool would provide valuable input to the planning of an emergency towing operation to prevent the vessel from grounding or to reduce the impact of the grounding.In this paper we present the outcomes of a study that investigated the drifting pattern of a vessel with an engine shut-down in the Barents Sea. As part of the ongoing A-Lex project [1], MARINTEK has prepared a VeSim [2] model to investigate the drifting path of a cargo vessel. The outcomes of the study will be used to draw up a technical specification for work to be done to develop an improved ship drift model in Norwegian Meteorological Institute’s (MET Norway’s, [3]) new Halo platform [4]. An improved model will be of great help to those planning emergency towing operations and for positioning of emergency preparedness units with respect to the traffic situation (especially tracks of vessels carrying dangerous goods) and weather forecasts.© 2015 ASME

Norwegian Work on Search and Rescue in Barents Sea

Increased shipping and offshore activities in the Barents Sea need improved emergency response capability in Norway and Russia. In both countries there are several projects and initiatives that aim towards mitigating the consequences from small accidents and larger catastrophes, some coordinated across borders, others not.In this paper we aim towards giving an overview of the current and near future state of emergency response in the Barents Sea. First we describe the emergency response preparedness that is fully operational today. Then we give a brief description of operations and activities we see today and in the foreseen future, and discuss types of challenges and risks associated with them in this particular environment. Using this as a background, we look on Norway’s ambitions for future search and rescue preparedness in the Norwegian Arctic waters and the ways emerging technologies can improve emergency response operations.Finally we give some recommendations on what needs to be done by Norway, Russia and the industrial operators in order to achieve an improved level of emergency response preparedness.Copyright