THE EFFECT OF HYDROELASTICITY ON SHIP SLAMMING

Wetdeck slamming is studied theoretically by a hydroelastic beam model . The problem is simplified by introducing an initial structural inert ia phase and a subsequent free vibration phase. Forward speed effects are included. The theoretical model is validated by comparing with dro p tests of elastic plates on waves. The stresses in the plates have a linear dependence on the impact speed and are neither sensitive to the radius of curvature of the waves nor where the waves initially hit. H ydroelasticity is important. The maximum impact pressures can be extre mely high and have a stochastic nature even under deterministic enviro nmental conditions, but they are not important for maximum bending str esses.