The experience of power catamaran design and research is presented, covering planning and displacement catamarans 6 to 24m in length developed by ‘Albatross Marine Design’ during recent years. The classifications of hull shapes are provided in respect of mode of operation, desired speed and applications. Recommendations are given for hull shape particulars selection, namely for LCG, CP, deadrise, submersed transom area, static load factor, etc. in the form of diagrams. Tunnel shaping is studied in terms of performance and sea keeping, and various approaches are reviewed. Recommendations for vertical and horizontal tunnel clearances are given, based on calculations and tests. Special attention is paid to hulls interaction and slamming areas. Photographic records of tunnel flows are provided for different speeds.
Components of resistance are discussed and reviews of available methods of catamarans performance predictions are given, with recommendations for their application. A diagram is proposed for estimation of required power versus speed at early stages of design. Sea keeping is studied in terms of operational safety and ride comfort. Maneuverability is discussed based on GPS track measurements, where variation of the turning circle based on the beam is noted.
A study of the weights of composite structures is presented for several options of a 10m power catamaran, starting from basic CSM laminates to high-tech solutions.
Samples designs are presented, reflecting company’s experience in the fields of rescue, work and pleasure catamarans.
