Study of superstructure and mast vibrations / frequencies reduction solutions for a maritime tug

Abstract

Onboard vessel heavy rotating equipment and environmental conditions (sailing in waves) are a major source of onboard vibrations that may affect the vessel structure and equipment. Vibrations are propagated through the vessel structure from the engine room all the way up to the superstructure affecting the installed masts. All the equipment installed on the superstructure and the mast, such as antennas, navigation lights, radars etc, are affected by these vibrations which can lead to malfunctioning equipment with major implications in the sailing fitness of the vessel itself. This paper presents the analysis of a tug superstructure and mast vibrations problems caused by the main engine and the propeller rotation. Solutions to optimize the structure and to improve the transmission model of these vibrations are also described.