A Technology Base for Aluminum Ship Structures

Abstract

A comprehensive U.S. Navy Development Program is underway to establish a sound and reliable technology base for aluminum ship structures. Central to this effort is an 85‐foot long, 17‐ton Aluminum Ship Evaluation Model (ASEM) which represents approximately a one‐third scale structure model of a conceptual all‐aluminum Destroyer Escort designed by the Naval Ship Engineering Center. The overall approach taken to develop this technology base for aluminum ships is basically similar to that employed in the aircraft structures field over the last two decades, i.e., systematic testing of large‐scale structural components under simulated service loading. Underlying considerations for the design and test of the large‐scale Structural Ship Model (the ASEM) me presented with details both for the static testing and the simulated life‐cycle fatigue testing of this Model. Rational design loads applied to the ASEM were based upon 80% of the highest significant wave for the static tests and on wave spectra expected in 20 years of operation in the North Atlantic for the fatigue tests. Results expected from this overall effort include vurious Mannuals for design, fabrication, inspection, and surveillance and repair of aluminum ship structures. These results are intended to provide a mechanism for technology transfer to industry so that a sound and efficient industrial base will be established for the construction and operation of aluminum ships.