Download leaflet Shallow Water Basin as PDF.
The depth of the Shallow Water Basin (220 x 15.75 m) is adjustable from 0 to 1.15 m. It is used to optimise the propulsion characteristics of ships as well as the (low speed) manoeuvring behaviour in shallow water. This including factors like proximity of quays and bank suction. The test can be used as input for simulations which help to optimise nautical strategies. The facility is also used for Concept Development and Design Support of new offshore designs in shallow water.
The depth of the Shallow Water Basin (220 x 15.75 m) is adjustable from 0 to 1.15 m. It is used to optimise the propulsion characteristics of ships as well as the (low speed) manoeuvring behaviour in shallow water. This including factors like proximity of quays and bank suction. The test can be used as input for simulations which help to optimise nautical strategies. The facility is also used for Concept Development and Design Support of new offshore designs in shallow water.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 220 m × 15.8 m, 1.1 m deep |
| Carriage | Manned, motor-driven |
| Maximum carriage speed | 4 m/s |
| Type of drive system and total power | AC Thyristor power supply, 4 × 15 kW |
| Other capabilities | PMM equipment |
| Wave generator capability |
Regular and irregular waves Wave period 0.5 - 5 s Wave direction 0 - 180 deg Wave height up to 0.25 m (significant) |
| Wave maker type and extent | Piston type, on short side |
| Beach type |
Adjustable in height, lattice type Portable electric resistance type wave probes |
| Wind | Generated by portable fans |
| Water depth | Adjustable, maximum 1.15 m for calm water, 1.0 m for wave tests |
| Instrumentation |
MMS (measuring frequency up to 10,000 Hz) Number of channels: 40 (extendable) High speed film and video recording equipment available |
| Model size range |
Particularly equipped for inland waterways push-boat and tow configurations. Overall length of 26 m and total beam of 5.5 m is the largest tested so far Manoeuvring tests (zig-zag, PMM), model length up to 8 m Floating structures and mooring arrangements depending on water depth and wave conditions |
| Model tracking techniques | Objects are tracked by optical system |
Test capabilities
- Manoeuvring tests, zig-zag tests, stopping tests, PMM tests for determination of manoeuvring coefficients as input for the manoeuvring simulator
- Resistance and self-propulsion tests especially for shallow water and/or narrow channels for ships and large push-tow fleets
- Seakeeping tests with measurements of motions, wave loads and added resistance in waves for self-propelled ships
- Behaviour of vessels in waves during beaching
- Oscillation tests and tests in waves with a restrained model to determine hydrodynamic coefficients
- Tests for moored and fixed objects to determine the motions, mooring forces and loads due to waves and wind
Contact
For more information on the Shallow Water Basin, please contact the Ships Manoeuvring & Seakeeping department or Ships Powering deparment.
For more information on the Shallow Water Basin, please contact the Ships Manoeuvring & Seakeeping department or Ships Powering deparment.

