Energy (FUEL) Conservation through Underwater Removal and Control of Fouling on Hulls of Navy Ships
Abstract
Operating costs and performance efficiency of Navy ships have become matters of increasing concern because of the fourfold increase in cost and the unpredictable availability of foreign and domestic supplies of petroleum fuel. Methods whereby the Navy can conserve fuel are urgently needed. A systematic program for underwater removal and control of fouling is one method which has considerable potential merit for attaining the objective of conserving fuel and improving ship performance. This report reviews the characteristics of fouling and describes underwater hull inspection and cleaning methods. It delineates the interactions among fuel consumption, fouling, and the compatibility of underwater cleaning methods with the antifouling paint coating on the hull. It also presents an integrated concept of hull cleaning and fouling control. A program plan is described which, when completed, is presented to result in the conservation of fuel and improved ship performance through the development and Fleet-wide implementation of cost-effective underwater hull-cleaning methodology to remove and control fouling on Navy ships. Conservative estimates place this fuel saving at 15% of the total quantity consumed by the Fleet. With respect to effective control of fouling, this should assure attainment of the current Navy objective of making ships available for 5 years between successive drydockings. With respect to effective control of fouling, this should assure attainment of effective control of fouling, this should assure attainment of the current Navy objective of making ships available for 5 years between successive drydockings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADB007927
Entities
People
- C. P. Cologer
- H. E. Achilles
- H. S. Preiser