Comparison of Measured Ship Squat with Numerical and Empirical Methods

The Beck, Newman and Tuck (BNT) numerical predictions are used in the Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL) Channel Analysis and Design Evaluation Tool (CADET) model for predicting underkeel clearance (UKC) resulting from ship motions and squat. The Ankudinov empirical squat prediction formula has been used in the CHL ship simulator and was recently updated. The World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure (formerly The Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses, PIANC) has recommended several empirical and physics-based formulas for the prediction of ship squat. Some of the most widely used formulas include those of Barrass, Eryuzlu, Huuska, International Commission for the Reception of Large Ships (ICORELS), Romisch, Tuck, and Yoshimura. The purpose of this article is to compare BNT, Ankudinov, and PIANC predictions with measured differential global positioning system (DGPS) squat data from the Panama Canal for four ships. These comparisons demonstrate that the BNT, Ankudinov, and PIANC predictions fall within the range of squat measurements and can be used with confidence in deep draft channel design.