The Design of a Slow Speed Bulbous Bow for the T-AO 187 Class Ships

A low speed retrofit bulbous bow that is capable of reducing resistance over a wide speed and displacement range has been designed for the T-AO 187 class ships. Preliminary model towing tests to simulate bulbs of different volumes and locations were performed with simple bodies of revolutions fitted to the stem of a T-AO 187 model. Data from these model towing tests aided in selecting the volume and location of the final bulb design. Resistance and propulsion model towing tests confirmed that a small volume bulb reduces resistance over a wide speed and displacement range in calm water. The bulbous bow designed for the T-AO 187 class ships reduces resistance across the entire speed range, 10 to 22 knots, at design displacement and provides for reduced fuel consumption.