Prediction of the efficient speed of an LNGC with design condition from a direct cost evaluation considering the hydrodynamic characteristics and equipment operation.

Abstract It was necessary to determine how to estimate the operational efficiency through an objective evaluation since a ship owner's interest was closely connected to the operating cost. Ship owners demanded that shipyards predicted the most efficient speed based on the evaluated operating cost by considering the hydrodynamic characteristics of a ship, sea route, environmental conditions including wind and waves, equipment features including main engine, and GCU, fuel property, and others. In this paper, we constructed a new approach to estimate the operating cost, by developing direct cost evaluation in consideration of the requested factors. As a result, the observed slow steaming was investigated on the basis of the hydrodynamic characteristics of the vessel and the effect of the activated GCU on the operating cost could be analyzed. Finally, a speed range within which slow steaming was effective was perceived, and the most efficient speed was observed at the lowest speed of that range. Highlights • The operating cost of an LNGC was estimated in consideration of the hydrodynamic characteristics, sea route, environmental conditions, and equipment operation. • The characteristics of the slow steaming was investigated from the estimated operating cost. • The most efficient speed was found in a speed range within which slow steaming is effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]