CFD-based study on the prediction of wave-induced surge force

• We apply an overset gird RANS solver to the prediction of wave-induced surge force.
• CFD can predict the wave-induced surge force quantitatively even in severe wave condition.
• We evaluate the current formula proposed for the correction to the Froude–Krylov force.
• The current formula has certain limitation and cannot fully explain the hull form effect.
• A CFD-based study reveals essential factors for improving the prediction accuracy.

The prediction of wave-induced surge force acting on a ship running in following seas is a key issue for the accurate estimation of surf-riding and broaching phenomena. It is pointed out that the Froude–Krylov calculation generally overestimates the amplitude of wave-induced surge force. Therefore a simple correction formula to the Froude–Krylov force was proposed in the second-generation intact stability criteria under discussion at the International Maritime Organization. In this paper, a RANS solver with an overset grid system is used to obtain more accurate prediction of wave surging force. Then CFD-based studies are performed, to evaluate the current correction formula, using a series of hull forms with variety of hull form parameters. Finally several CFD simulations are conducted to reveal essential elements which improve the prediction accuracy of the wave-induced surge force.