Development of effective model test in pack ice conditions of square-type ice model basin

• An effective model test procedure in pack ice conditions are proposed with three individual pack ice channels.
• The minimum channel breadth for the pack ice conditions should be more than 6 m.
• The size of ice floe is critical in estimating the performance of ice-class vessels.
• The concentration of pack ice channel is calculated by using AxioVision software both accurately and rapidly.

The effective model test methods of a square-type ice model basin in pack ice conditions were developed. Three individual pack ice channels, each with different concentrations of ice floe, were prepared using wooden staples, and these effects are verified in this research. The minimum channel breadth for the pack ice conditions was more than 6 m. In addition, the influence of the ship resistance in relation to the size of the ice floes in pack ice conditions was analyzed. Finally, we determined that the test result could be improved by applying a new technique to calculate the pack ice concentration. This study is intended to contribute to the improvement of a model test technique in pack ice conditions, and we conclude that the test result in pack ice conditions is more accurate.