SECTION 22 -BILGING

INTRODUCTION
A 'bilged' ship is one that has suffered a breach of the hull through grounding, collision or other
means and water has been admitted into the hull. Whenever a ship suffers damage and flooding of
compartments takes place there will always be an increase in the draught. However, it does not
always follow that the ship's initial stability will be worsened; in some instances stability is
improved.

This section investigates the way flooding of compartments can affect the ship's draught and
stability for a number of different scenarios. Although calculations involving box-shaped vessels
are considered, the principles discussed will apply equally to ship shapes (in fact many ship's hulls
almost represent box-shaped vessels if the curvature of the hull form at the ends is ignored!).

Similarity of high block coefficient hull forms to box-shaped vessels.

Fig. 22.1

Learning Objectives
On completion of this section the learner will achieve the following:
1. Calculate the change in draught and stability of a box-shaped vessel when an empty
LJ amidships compartment is bilged;
2. Calculate the effects of bilging an empty amidships compartment with a watertight (double
bottom);
0 3.
4.
Calculate the effects of bilging a compartment when permeability is less than 100%;
Calculate the draughts when an end compartment becomes bilged;
5. Calculate the list when an amidships side compartment is bilged, permeability 100%;
6. Review the principles of bilging to be applied to different flooding scenarios.

0 CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

265

[J
 22.1 THE EFFECTS OF BILGING AN EMPTY AMIDSHIPS COMPARTMENT

The changes in draught and stability when a compartment becomes flooded due to damage can be
investigated by either of two methods:

(1) the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method, or;

(2) the added weight method.

22.1.1 Calculating the KM of a box-shaped vessel

In order to do bilging calculations involving box-shaped vessels it will be necessary to calculate the
KM of a box. This is given by: KM = KB + BM

rKM;~x=Q~+~3.1
I 2 12V I
where: 'L' and 'B' are the length and breadth of the water plane area respectively, and;
'V' is the volume of displacement of the box-shaped vessel when on an even keel.

22.1.2 Lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method

This method assumes that when a compartment becomes flooded there is no change in the
displacement or KG of the vessel. The approach is to consider that a certain amount of volume of
buoyancy is lost whereby the vessel must sink to regain that amount of buoyancy elsewhere in the
remaining intact part of the vessel, since, for a vessel to float:
total weight force acting downward through the centre of gravity (G) must equal the total buoyancy
force acting upward through centre of buoyancy (B, being at the centroid of the intact underwater
volume).

Figure 22.2 illustrates this approach where an

amidships compartment extending the full
breadth and depth of the vessel becomes bilged.

Box-shaped vessel suffers substantial side

damage amidships.

2. Water floods into the compartment. The 3. The excess of weight force causes the vessel to
buoyancy afforded by the damaged compartment sink to regain a volume of buoyancy equivalent to
is lost creating an excess of weight force. Since that lost.
the damage is substantial the compartment may
now be considered as being 'open to the sea'.

The volume of buoyancy lost = The volume

of buoyancy gained

(Note that the slice of water (sinkage) in the bilged

compartment is not part of the volume gained -

.v..~~... .V~cOf~..- since this compartment

vesse/-
is offering no support
being effectively 'open to the sea'.
to f1e

Fig. 22.2

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging 266

4.
So it is assumed that the sinkage of the vessel is caused by the redistribution of the intact
underwater volume. Since nothing has been loaded and the effective volume of displacement is
the same, the assumptions of this approach are:

(1) Volume of displacement (and displacement) remain constant, and;

(2) KG remains constant.

We must now consider the change in the

vessels initial stability. Consider the change in
effective water plane area in figure 22.3.

In this case the part of water plane area of the

bilged compartment has been lost. Since:

BM= and for a box-shaped vessel: B~ox = .!::§.3

v 12V

8M will reduce directly as a result of the reduced water plane area. V, the volume of displacement
of the vessel, has not changed, since if displacement remains constant; so does the volume of
displacement.

In addition, because the draught has increased due to the sinkage, KB will increase.

KBBox = DrauQht
2

This is still valid for the bilged condition since the KB of each of the end compartments will be the same.

Since: KM = KB + BM; it is most probable that KM will change as a result of the increasing KB and
the decreasing BM; the changes in both unlikely to be the same.

If KM changes and KG is assumed to remain constant, any change in KM will be the same as the
change in GM, being either an increase or decrease.

Consider example 1.
Example 1 (By lost buoyancy- constant displacement method)
A box-shaped vessel has length 140 m, breadth 36 m and is on an even keel draught of 6 m in salt
water. In the present condition the KG is 12.80 m. An empty amidships compartment extending the
full breadth and depth of the vessel 60 m in length is bilged. Calculate:

(a) the draught in the bilged condition;

(b) the initial GM;
(c) the GM in the bilged condition;
(d) the moment of statical stability if the vessel is heeled to 5°.

Solution (a)
Do a simple sketch.

.VQIII~Of ~ ~ ."'~""-Y-vQ8i~

Fig. 22.4
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging
267
 VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage 60 x 36 x 6 = (140 -60) x 36 x x

12960 = 2880x
x = 4.500 m

The draught in the bilged condition = 6.000 + 4.500 = 10.500 m (Ans)

Solution (bJ
To calculate the initial GM, first calculate KM.

KMaox = KB + BM

KB = DrauQht = MQQ = 3.000 m

2 2
BM = bff = 140 X 363 = 18.000 m
12V 12x(140x36x 6)

Therefore: KM = 3.000 + 18.000 = 21.000 m

Calculate GM

GM=KM-KG GM = 21.000-12.800 = 8.200 m (Ans)

Solution (c)
To calculate the GM in the bilged condition, calculate KM.

Remember the assumptions:

KG remains constant;
Displacement(and volumeof displacement)remainsconstant.
KMaox = K8 + 8M

KB = Drauqht = 1Q.QQQ = 5.250 m

2 2

~ = (140- 60) X 363 = 10.286 m

12V 12x (140 ,x 36 x 6)

Therefore: KM = 5.250 + 10.286 = 15.536 m

Calculate GM for the bilged condition.

GM=KM-KG GM = 15.536-12.800 = 2.736 m (Ans)

Solution (d)
Righting moment (t-m) = GZ x Displacement
Displacementaox = Length x Breadth x Draught x Density of water
Since the displacement remains constant:
Displacement = 140 x 36 x 6 x 1.025 = 30996 tonnes
At 5°, a small angle of heel: GZ = GM x Sine 0
...Righting moment (t-m) = (GM x Sine 0) x Displacement
Righting moment (t-m) = (2.736 x Sine 5°) x 30996 = 7391 tom (Ans)

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

268
 22.1.3 Added weight method
This assumes that the floodwater entering the ship increases the displacement and affects the ship's
KG by reason of the Effect of added mass and (in some cases) the effect of the introduced free
surface. Essentially the problem is approached in the same way that would apply when a tank is either
partially or fully filled during routine ship operations. Example 1 will be reworked using this method.

Example 1 (Bv added weiaht method!

A box-shaped vessel has length 140 m, breadth 36 m and is on an even keel draught of 6 m in salt
water. In the present condition the KG is 12.80 m. An empty amidships compartment extending the
full breadth and depth of the vessel 60 m in length is bilged. Calculate:

(a) the draught in the bilged condition;

(b) the initial GM;
(c) the GM in the bilged condition;
(d) the moment of statical stability if the vessel is heeled to 5°.

Solution (a)
Doa sketch.
Calculate the mass of floodwater admitted
into the compartment.

Let X equal the new draught after bilging.

Fig. 22.5
Added mass of water = 60 x36 xX x 1.025 = 2214Xtonnes
(1)
Calculate the initial displacement.
Initial displacement = 140 x 36 x 6 x 1.025 = 30996 tannes (2)

Calculate the new displacement.

New displacement = 140 x 36 xX x 1.025 = 5166Xfonnes (3)

Calculate the final draught (X).

New displacement (3) = Initial displacement (2) + mass of floodwater (1)
5166X= 30996 + 2214X
.', 5166X-2214X=30996
,', 2952X= 30996
,', X = draught in the bilged condition = 10.500 m (Ans)

Solution (b)
To calculate the initial GM, first calculate KM.
KMaox = KB + BM

KB = DrauQht = MQQ = 3.000 m

0 BM = ~
2
=
2
140 X 363 = 18.000 m
12V 12x (140 x 36 x 6)
Therefore: KM = 3.000 + 18.000 = 21.000 m

Calculate GM
GM=KM-KG GM = 21.000- 12.800 = 8.200 m (Ans)

Solution (c)
Calculate the final KG.
Initial displacement = 30996 tonnes
Mass of floodwater = 60 x 36 x 10.5x 1.025 = 23247 tonnes

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

269

n
 Kg of the floodwater = 1Q2 = 5.25 m
2

Introduced free surface moments = !Q3x dt = ~ x 1.025

12 12
surface moments = 239112 t-m

Take moments about the keel.

Weiaht It\ I KG(m) Moments (t-m)
.

12800 396749
FI 23247 I 5.250 122047
FSM's 239112
Final

Calculate the final KM

KMsox = KB + BM

= 10.286 m

Calculate GM
GM=KM-KG GM = 15.536-13.972 = 1.564 m (Ans)

Solution (d)
Righting moment (t-m) = GZ x Displacement
Final displacement = 54243 tonnes
At 5°, a small angle of heel: GZ = GM x Sine 9
.'. Righting moment (t-m) = (GM x Sine 9) x Displacement
Righting moment (t-m) = (1.564 x Sine 5°) x 54243 = 7394 t-m (Ans)

Disregarding the slight difference due to the rounding up of figures in the calculation this gives the
same answer as by the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method. Therefore, both methods of
calculation are equally valid.

22.1.4 Method to use for bilging calculations

The two methods of calculation will give identical answers for the final draughts, trim and righting
moment. Despite giving different values for GM (and GMJ, when the GM values are allied to the
appropriate displacement value for the damaged condition they will give equal values of righting
moment; remembering of course that the righting moment is the true measure of a vessels initial
stability and not GM alone!

The lost buoyancy (constant displacement) approach is considered more appropriate when the
damage is extensive and the floodwater is very much part of the sea. Because damage stability
legislation assumes worst case scenarios all damaged stability calculations are conducted using
this method. Consequently, this is the method that should be adopted for examination purposes
and will be used for the purposes of all other examples in this section.

The added weight method may be considered more appropriate when the breach of the hull is
small and the floodwater is more contained so that the effect of the water introduced is the same
as that if it were introduced into an intact ship. Pumps may be able to limit the amount of water
admitted and a level below the external waterline may be maintained, obviously in the calculation
the worst-case scenario is considered.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

270

~
Free
E
 THE EFFECTS OF BILGING AN EMPTY AMIDSHIPS COMPARTMENT WITH A
WATERTIGHT FLAT (DOUBLE BOTTOM)

22.2.1 Floodwater confined below a watertight flat below the original waterline

Example 2
A box -shaped vessel floating on an even keel in salt water has the following particulars; length 110
m, breadth 22 m and draught 5.00 m.
There is an empty amidships bottom compartment 20 m in length extending the full breadth of the
vessel with a watertight flat 4.80 m above the keel.

Calculate the change in GM if this compartment becomes bilged.

Solution
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:

KG remains constant;
Displacement(and volumeof displacement)remainsconstant.
Therefore, any change in KM will equal the
change in GM.

Do a simple sketch.

From the sketch it can be seen that the water

plane area will remain intact since no part of
.~ of~.AC1~ V 01~~
the hull is flooded above the watertight flat.
Fig. 22.6

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage 20x22x4.8= 110x22xx

2112 = 2420x
x=O.873m

Therefore the draught in the bilged condition = 5.000 + 0.873 = 5.873 m

To calculate the change in initial GM, calculate KM for the intact condition and then KM for the
bilged condition. The difference in the values calculated will give the change in GM.

Intact KM
L KMaox = KB + BM

~ = 110x223 = 8.067 m
12V 12x (110 x 22 x 5)

Therefore: KM = 2.500 + 8.067 = 10.567 m

Bi/qed KM
KMaox = KB + BM
r
At the final waterline KB ~ Drauaht
2

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

271
Consider the shape of the new intact
underwater volume of the vessel.

KB in the bilged condition will be greater

than half the draught. To calculate the KB
for the bilged condition it will be necessary
to take 'moments of volume' about the keel
in a similar way to taking moments about Fig. 22.7
the keel when solving KG calculations.

Volume 1m3) i Mo KB = 3.030m

Volume of DB lost .
Final 3.030 36666.7

(Note that the final volume of displacement (in red) is the same as the initial volume of
displacement, so just use the original values!) 8M = bff
12V
However, since the water plane area has remained fully intact and the volume of dsplacement
does not change: Initial 8M = Final 8M = 8.067 m
Therefore: Final KM = 3.030 + 8.067 = 11.097 m
Change in GM = Change in KM
GM has increased by 0.530 m (Ans)

Ch

In this instance the initial stability of the vessel has increased as a res ult of bilging the
compartment. This is due to the addition of bottom weight with no introduced free surface moments
(if the added weight method were to be considered).

22.2.2 Final waterline above the watertight flat

Example 3
A box-shaped vessel is floating on an even keel in salt water and has the following particulars:
length 100 m, breadth 20 m and draught 5.50 m. There is an empty amidships bottom
compartment of 18 m length that extends the full breadth of the vessel with a watertight flat 6.20 m
above the keel.
Calculate the change in initial GM if this compartment becomes bilged.

Solution
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:
KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.
Therefore, any change in KM will equal the .100. ". :Om
change in GM. ..J'

Do a simple sketch.

Consider figure 22.8. The initial waterline is i

almost
The approach
up to the
herelevel
is to
of make
the watertight
the following
flat. .v "'~.. .¥_"'~
,

assumption: Fig. 22.8

'Assume that the final waterline is above the level of the watertight flat'

Calculate the problem on this basis and if it were found that the new draught is actually less than
the height of the watertight flat, rework the problem as if it were an ordinary amidships
compartment as in example 1, since the initial assumption made would be incorrect.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY. SECTION 22 -Bilging

272
 Note that the space in the bilged compartment between the initial waterline and the watertight flat is not
part of the volume of buoyancy gained, since the compartment is now open to the sea when bilged.

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage (18 x20 x 5.5) = (100 x20 xx) -(18 x20 x (6.2 -5.5))
1980 = 2000x- 252
1980 + 252 = 2000x
2232 = 2000x
x= 1.116m

Therefore the draught in the bilged condition = 5.500 + 1.116 = 6.616m

Since this puts the final waterline above the watertight flat the assumption was correct.
To calculate the change in initial GM, calculate KM for the intact condition and then KM for the
bilged condition.

Intact KM
KMaox = KB + BM

8M = ~ = 100 x 2d = 6.061 m Therefore: KM = 2.750 + 6.061 = 8.811 m

12V 12x (100 x 20 x 5.5)

Bilqed KM
KMaox = KB + BM
At the final waterline KB ~ Drauaht
2
Consider the shape of the new intact
underwater volume of the vessel.

KB in the bilged condition will be greater

than half the draught. To calculate the KB for
the bilged condition take 'moments of
volume' about the keel.
Fig. 22.9

L--!

However, since the waterplane area has remained fully intact and the volume of displacement
does not change: Initial 8M = Final 8M = 6.061 m
Therefore: Final KM = 3.350 + 6.061 = 9.411 m

In this instance the initial stability of the vessel has increased as a result of bilging the
compartment. This is due to the addition of bottom weight with no introduced free surface moments
(if the added weight method were to be considered).

r CLASS 2/1 STABILITY" SECTION 22 -Bilging

273
 22.3 BILGING A COMPARTMENT WHEN PERMEABILITY IS LESS THAN 100%
The term permeability with respect to any compartment on a ship relates to the amount of space in
that compartment that is capable of being filled with floodwater. An empty tank has a permeability
of 100% (or 1.00). A completely full tank has a permeability of 0% (or 0.00). A widely used value
for permeability of the engine room in a ship is taken as 85% (or 0.85); whereby 15% of the engine
room is taken up by the machinery within it and 85% is void space capable of being flooded.

The previous examples assumed that the compartment being bilged was empty before bilging i.e.
the compartment permeability was 100%. If the compartment has permeability less than 100%, by
reasons of cargo in it for example, less floodwater will be admitted, the ship's bodily sinkage will be
smaller, and the change of GM will be different to what would have arisen from bilging a
compartment of permeability 100%.

In terms of the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method, a smaller permeability will mean a
smaller loss of buoyancy. Furthermore, if the reduced permeability applies at the final waterline,
there will be less loss of water plane area and hence less loss d 8M (since the volume of
displacement remains constant). Unless there is data to suggest otherwise, the permeability that
applies to the loss of volume of buoyancy will apply equally to the loss of water plane area. It
should also be evident that some of the volume of buoyancy regained will include that of the cargo
in the bilged compartment.

Bilging a compartment when permeability is less than 100% -permeability value given

Example 4
A box -shaped vessel has length 120 m, breadth 16 m and floats at an even keel draught of 6.00 m
in salt water. There is an empty amidships compartment of length 20 m extending the full breadth
of the vessel that has a permeability of 40%. If this compartment should become bilged calculate:
(a) the new draught, and;
(b) the change in GM.

Solution (a)
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:
KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.

Therefore, any change in KM will equal the 1..,

change in GM.

Do a simple sketch.

Voo-ql~ylQo.t(~1 .V~~I""",~~
V"",...
qI~ I"I"",,IIY
~ I..w..~ ---
Fig. 22.10

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage (20 x 16 x 6 x 0.40) =i (120 x 16) -(20 x 16 x 0.40) XJ

768 -(1920-128)x
768 = 1792x
x = 0.429 m
Therefore the draught in the bilged condition = 6.000 + 0.429 = 6.429 m

Solution (b)
To calculate the change in initial GM, calculate KM for the intact condition and then KM for the
bilged condition.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

274
22.3.1
 Intact KM
KMaox = KB + BM

KB = Drauqht = MQQ = 3.000 m

2 2

8M = b§3 = 120 X 163 = 3.556m

12V 12x (120 x 16 x 6)

Therefore: KM = 3.000 + 3.556 = 6.556 m

BilQed KM
KMaox = KB + BM

KB = Drauaht = ~ = 3.215 m
2 2

8M = b§3
12V

In this case not all of the WPA

attributable to the bilged
compartment is lost -only 40% of
it. See figure 22.11. 1. Only 40% of the WPA of the bilged compal1ment is lost.

Because it is the transverse 8M

that is required that portion of the
water plane area lost may be
considered as a strip running
transversely.
2. Treating the lost WPA as a transverse strip of the
Therefore, the remaining intact bilged comfSrtment then the effective itltact length of the
\I1IPA = 120 -(0.40 x 20) metms.
length of the water plane area is
given by: Fig.22.11
Intact WPA length = 120 -(0.40 x 20) = 112 metres

Intact WPA breadth = 16 metres (unchanged)

These are the values that must be used to calculate the bilged condition BM.

Therefore: 8M = ~ 8M = (120 -(0.40 x 20)) x 1& = 3.319 m

12V 12x(120~,< 16 x6)

Therefore: Final KM = 3.215 + 3.319 = 6.534 m

0 Change in GM = Change in KM

Ch In this instance the initial stability of the vessel has reduced due to
the fall in KM.

22.3.2 Calculating the permeability for a compartment

The permeability value for a compartment may be calculated from data relating to the stowage
factor and the true density of the cargo.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

275

D
Exam/Jle 5
A hold has length 30 m, breadth 12 m
and a depth of 8 m. Coal having a
stowage factor (SF) of 1.36 m3It is
loaded into the hold until completely full.
If the true density of the coal is 1.20 t/m3,
calculate the permeability of the
compartment.

Note that the true density is that which

applies to the individual pieces of coal
cargo and does not take account of any
void spaces that might exist in between Fig. 22.12
those coal pieces. SF takes account of
the voids in between the pieces of coal.

Solution (Method 1)
Compartment volume = 30 x 12 x 8 = 2880 m3
Maximum mass of coal that compartment can hold = Volume = .f§.§.Q = 2118 t
SF 1.36

Volume of actual coal in the compartment (ignoring voids) = [!]E.§.§..

Density

= ll1§ = 1765 m~
1.20

Therefore, Void space in the compartment = 2880 -1765 = 1115 m3

Permeability = Void space = .111.Q= 0.387 (38.7%) (Ans)

Total space 2880

A formula for calculating permeability is derived as follows:

Permeability = Void space = Total space -Filled space

Total space Total space

Therefore: Permeability = (mass x SF) -(mass/density)

mass x SF

where: ~ = the 'solid' SF

density
Permeability = mass x (SF -1/densitv)
mass x SF

Therefore: Permeability = SF -1/densitv

SF
The symbol for permeability is 11.

Consider the previous example where the coal had density 1.20t/m3 and SF 1.36 m3/t.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

276
 SF 1.36

Example 6 is a particularly awkward problem whereby a compartment above a double bottom tank
becomes bilged and permeability has to be calculated.

Example 6
A box-shaped vessel has length 140 m, breadth 26 m and is floating on an even keel draught of
5.80 m in salt water. There is a double bottom tank, depth 1.50 m, with a hold above. Both
compartments are 36 m in length and extend the full breadth of the vessel. Homogenous cargo in
the hold stows at 1.42 Mit and has RD 1.28. The vessel suffers side damage and the hold
becomes bilged. Calculate:
(a) the final draught;
(b) the change in GM.

By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:

KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.

Therefore, any change in KM will equal the

change in GM.

Do a simple sketch.

VIIIII_III~y-\~) .V"'II-"'~-YP~
V"'-~ ~ ~§'111M
~-",j" "'Ii!.-~
Fig. 22.13

Let x = sinkage 36x26x(5.8 -1.5) xO.45 =r (140 x 26) -(36 x26x 0.45) xl
1811.2 = (3640.- 421.2)x )
1811.2 = 3218.8x
x = 0.563 m
Therefore the draught in the bilged condition = 5.800 + 0.563 = 6.363 m

Solution (b)
To calculate the change in initial GM, calculate KM for the intact condition and then KM for the
bilged condition.
Intact KM
KMaox = KB + BM

KB = Drauqht = MQQ = 2.900 m

0 2 2

8M = b§3 = 140 X 263 = 9.713 m

12V 12x (140 x 26 x 5.8)

Therefore: KM = 2.900 + 9.713 = 12.613 m

r
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging
277
 Bi/qed KM
KMaox = KB + BM

At the final waterline KB ~ Drauaht

2

Consider the shape of the new intact

underwater volume of the vessel.

To calculate the KB for the bilged condition

take 'moments of volume' about the keel.

Remember that cargo is still displacing ~~"'*- willdlS~.~" ~ ~ -'- -~ fur

water in the bilged space and must be
accounted for. The Kb of the bilged hold is Fig. 22.14
calculated by:

1.5 + (6.363-1.5) = 3.932 m (Study figure 22.14 if in doubt.)

2
KB = 3.109 m

BM=~
12V

Only 45% of the water plane area attributable to the bilged hold is lost.

Fig. 22.15

BM=~ 8M = (140- (36 x 0.45)) x 2~ = 8.589 m

12V 12 x (140)( 26,"( 5.8)

Therefore: Final KM = 3.109 + 8.589 = 11.698 m

I Change in GM = Change in KM

Ch GM has decreased.

,
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging 278
LJ
 22.4 CALCULATING THE DRAUGHTS WHEN AN END COMPARTMENT BECOMES BILGED
If an end compartment becomes bilged the vessel will suffer both bodily sinkage and a change of
trim. The bodily sinkage is calculated as if the compartment were sited amidships. The
compartment is then 'shifted' in the calculation to allow the change of trim to be calculated. The
change of trim that takes place will depend on the MCTC value for the bilged condition.

Being a box-shaped vessel, in calculations it is usually required that the MCTC value be calculated
using:
~~TC=l
MCTC = ~L W x GML I
100LBP

The derivation of this formula was demonstrated in section 12.6.

In examinations it is (usually) only required to solve questions where the bilged compartment has a
permeability of 100%.

22.4.1 Bilging an extreme end compartment with 100% permeability

Example 7
A box-shaped vessel has length 75 m, breadth 12 m and is floating on an even keel draught in salt
water of 2.5 m. In this condition the KG is 3.00 m. An empty forward end compartment of length 6
m extending the full breadth and depth of the vessel is bilged.
Calculate the draughts in the flooded condition.

Solution
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:
KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.

By assuming that the compartment is

amidships calculate the new mean
draught

Do a simple sketch.

1. Calculate the new mean draught

.VOl1!_m~t!I:'iCIt .V~m~~~
Fig. 22.16

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage 6 x 12 x 2.5 =( (75 -6) x 12 J x

180 = 828x

0 x = 0.217m
Therefore the mean draught in the bilged condition = 2.500 + 0.217 = 2.717 m

2. Move the compartment to its actual position and calculate the trimming moment
0 Consider figure 22.17.
Initially the LCG and LCB are in the
AI'
t , ~1*m
.'16m
same longitudinal position at amidships
0 (since the vessel is on an even keel).
The change of trim is caused by the
loss of volume of buoyancy folWard
which causes the LCB to move aft (B
to BJ. This creates a trimming moment
given by:
Fig. 22.17
r
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging
279
 Trimming moment (t-m) = W X BB1

Because of the symmetry of the intact volume it follows that the trimming lever (BBJ = 3 m, being
half the length of the bilged compartment.
...Trimming moment = (75 x 12 x2.5 x 1.025) x 3 = 6918.75 tom
(Displacement remains constant!)

3. Calculate MCTC
MCTC = W X GML
100LBP
where GML = KML -KG
First calculate the KML for the bilged condition.
KML = KB + BML

In the bilged condition: KB = DrauGht = U1l = 1.359 m

2 2
BML=§b3
12V

The water plane area afforded by the bilged compartment has been lost, therefore:

BML= 12 x (75 -6)3 = 146.004 m

12x(75x12x2.5)

Therefore: KML = 1.359 + 146.004 = 147.363 m

GML = KML -KG GML = 147.363- 3.000 = 144.363 m

(KG remains constant!)

MCTC = WxGM,
100LBP

MCTC = (75 x 12 x 2.5 x 1.025) x 144.363 = 44.392 t-m

100 x 75
(Note that LBP is 75 m, do not use the effective length of the remaining water plane area by
mistake!)

Calculate the change of trim

(cms) = Trimminq moment = 6918.75 = 155.9 cms by the head

MCTC 44.392

Apportion the change of trim to the forward and aft draughts

Consider figure 22.17. Because the water plane area afforded by the bilged compaltment forward
is lost the LCF will move aft. Because of the symmetry of the box shaped vessel the movement of
the LCF aft will be the same as the movement of the LCB (BBJ, which is 3 m.
Therefore, the new position of the LCFis 34.5 m foap.

Ta = COT x .@.. Ta = 155.gx~ = 71.7cms

L 75

Tf= COT -Ta Tf= 155.9- 71.7 = 84.2 cms

Apply Ta and Tfto the final mean draught of 2. 717 m.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

280
4.
COT
5.
 22.4.2 Bilging an extreme end compartment with a watertight flat -100% permeability

Example 8
A box-shaped vessel has length 100 m, breadth 18 m and is floating on an even keel draught in
salt water of 4.0 m. In this condition the KG is 6.8 m. An empty forward end compartment of length
10m below a watertight flat 3 m above the keel and extending the full breadth of the vessel is
bilged. Calculate the draughts in the flooded condition.

Solution
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:
KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.

By assuming that the compartment is

amidships calculate the new mean
draught

Do a simple sketch

1. Calculate the new mean draught

.vGtdme 01""~11()St VcluBleof
~.~9tI-
Fig. 22.18

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage 10 x 18 x 3 = r100 x 18 xJx

540 = 1800x
x = 0.300 m
Therefore the mean draught in the bilged condition = 4.00 + 0.300 = 4.300 m

Move the compartment to its actual position and calculate the trimming moment
Consider figure 22.19.

Initially the LCG and LCB are in the

same longitudinal position at amidships
(since the vessel is on an even keel).
The change of trim is caused by the
loss of volume of buoyancy forward
which causes the LCB to male aft (B to
BJ where the trimming moment is
given by: Fig. 22.19
Trimming moment (t-m) = W x BB1

It is necessary to take moments of volume about the AP to find the new LCB.
Mo
f
Volume of DB lost
Final 46.625 335700

LCB moves aft from a position 50 m foap to 46.625 m foap.

Trimming lever = 50 -46.625 = 3.375 m

Trimming moment = (100x 18x4 x 1.025) x 3.375 = 24907.5 t-m

(Displacement remains constant!)

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY. SECTION 22 -Bilging

281

0
1
r;
2.
 Calculate MCTC MCTC = W X GML
100LBP
where GML = KM L-KG
First calculate the KML for the bilged condition.
KML = KB + BML
At the final waterline KB #: Drauaht
2

Consider the shape of the new intact underwater volume of the vessel in figure 22.19.
To calculate the KB for the bilged condition take 'moments of volume' about the keel.

In the bilged condition KB = 2.199 m

Total volume below final WL ,

Volume (m3) I~O~~~~~I KBlm)
43/2
Mo
BML = §b. 3
12V
Volume of DB lost ~11?-
Final 100x18x4\ 2.199

The water plane area afforded by the bilged compartment has remained intact due to the watertight
flat, therefore:

BML = 18 x 10d = 208.333 m

12x(100;<18;<4)

Therefore: KML = 2.199 + 208.333 = 210.532 m

GML = KML -KG GML = 210.532- 6.800= 203.732 m

(KG remains constant!)

MCTC =WxGM,
100LBP

MCTC = (100)( 18 >::4 x 1.025) x 203.732 = 150.354 t-m

100 x 100

4. Calculate the change of trim

COT (cms) = Trimminq moment = 24907.5 = 165.7 cms by the head
MCTC 150.354

5. Apportion the change of trim to the fofWard and aft draughts

Because the water plane area has remained intact the position of the LCF remains unchanged at
amidships.

Therefore, Ta = Tf= 1§.§.2 = 82.9 cms

2

Apply Ta and Tf to the final mean draught of 4.300 m.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging 282

3.
22.5 CALCULATING THE LIST WHEN AN AMIDSHIPS SIDE COMPARTMENT IS BILGED-
PERMEABILITY 100%

22.5.1 Moment of ineltia

We know that for a box-shaped vessel: Brv\3ox= ~3 where: ~3
12V 12
is the moment of inertia of the water plane area, and V is the volume of displacement of the vessel.

The most influential factor affecting the 8M is the size of the water plane area, but in particular, the
breadth. Many students have difficulty understanding the value of the 'moment of inertia' (I)
because it is difficult to picture. A way of thinking about the role that the moment of inertia plays is
to consider that the water plane area offers the ship resistance to rolling. This is true because the
greater the water plane area, and particularly the breadth; the greater will be 8M, and
consequently KM and GM, giving the ship greater initial stability.

The moment of inertia about an axis (of rotation) is equal to

the product of an area and the square of its distance from
that axis.

This will be looked at in more detail. The way to picture this

is to consider that the ship stays upright and the water
plane area rotates about a longitudinal axis of rotation that
passes through the centre of flotation (instead of the ship
rolling and the water line remaining horizontal).
Fig. 22.20
22.5.2 Moments of inertia of rectangular water plane areas
The smallest values of moment of inertia for any rectangular water plane area occur when the axis
of rotation (longitudinal or transverse) passes through the centroid of the water plane area
concerned i.e. the axis of rotation passes through the centre of flotation (which is at the geometric
centre of the water plane area).
The smallest transverse value
of I is given bY'r "j;;-:-ij31 ~
3
111= LB
12
The smallest longitudinal
value of I is given by: ,
j.

1.Smallest transverse value of I. 2. Smallest longitudinal value of I.

ILL=~:'j
c 12 , Fig. 22.21
The moment of inertia about an axis passing along one edge of the water plane area can also be
found.
These values may be calculated y
as follows: \ -

E!J~
The derivation of these formulae
~ x
y
is not important, but use of them 1. Transverse value of j 2. Longitudinal value of I
will allow the calculation of the about one edge. about one edge.
moment of inertia of the water
plane area when an amidships
Fig. 22.22
side compartment becomes
bilged.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

283
 22.5.3The parallel axes theorem
This states that:

'the moment of ineltia about any axis passing through the centroid of a water plane area is equal to
the moment of ineltia of the same water plane area about any parallel axis, minus the area of the
water plane multiplied by the distance between the axes squared.'

Consider figure 22.23.

The moment of inertia about the axis II (which passes I

through the centre of flotation) is equal to the moment
of inertia about the axis XX minus the product of the
.x"" x
water plane area and the distance between the axes
squared i.e. I ..,..2. I Fig. 22.23
L I!!:I~ _~~X~2)J
For this formula to be true the two axes must be parallel and one of them must pass through the
centroid of the area concerned.

Example 9
A box-shaped vessel has length 20 m and breadth 6 m.
Calculate:
(a) the moment of inertia for all the axis' of rotation shown;
(b) the moment of inertia about the two axis' passing through the centre of flotation using the
parallel axis' theorem.

Solution (a)
I,,=W =?:QJ5..§! = 360 m4 ~
12 12
ILL= ~ 3
=~ = 4000 m4 !
12 12
x x
Ixx=~ =2Q25-§:' = 1440 m4 'if

3 3 Length 20 m Breadth 6 m
Ivy = ~ 3
=~ = 16000 m4 Fig. 22.24
3 3

Solution (b)

Using the parallel axis theorem: 1" = Ixx- (A x if) where d = 3 m:

I" = 1440 -(20 x 6 x Y) = 360 m4
Using the parallel axis theorem: ILL = Iyy- (A x if) where d = 10 m:
ILL = 16000 -(20 x 6 x 102) = 4000 m4

22.5.4 Calculating the moment of inertia of a water plane area of a box-shaped vessel with a
bilged side compartment
The parallel axis theorem previously described c- .
will be used to calculate the moment of inertia of ' "

the water plane area of a box-shaped vessel ",

where an amidships side compartment has B CI.
become bilged. This will be necessary in order
to find the KM, and hence GM of the vessel in !
~~.' "l
the bilged condition.
Consider figure 22.25. Fig. 22.25

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

284

~
When an amidships side compartment extending upwards the full depth of the vessel becomes
bilged the centre of flotation (F) will move off the centre line, its new position with reference to side
XX (axis XX) may be calculated by taking moments of area about one side. This will give the
distance, d, between the two axes to be considered.

In order to calculate the 8M in the bilged condition it will be necessary to calculate the new value of
the transverse moment of inertia of the remaining intact water plane area about the new
longitudinal axis of rotation passing through the new position of the centre of flotation (about axis
II). This is achieved by using the parallel axis theorem whereby:

where: 1111
I'. = Ixx -(A
" x d~) II

(1)

and the intact water plane area is given by:

(2)

water plane area to be calculated: I" = ~'-

111= ~
Combining formulae (1) and (2) above will allow the transverse moment of inertia of the damaged
, J
LB 3 -~~j' -l(LB-lb)XdJ
(LB -Ib) x d)
r; ~ 1

. 81
3 3

Once the value of I has been calculated, this is used to determine the 8M in the bilged condition.
Consider the next example.

.
Example 10
A box shaped vessel has length 96 m and breadth 18 m and floats at an even keel draught of 4.6
m in salt water. An amidships side compartment of length 24 m extending in from the side 6 m is
bilged. Calculate:
(a) the initial 8M value;
(b) the 8M in the damaged condition.

Solution (a)
In the intact condition: 8M = ~3
12V

8M= ~ 12 = 5.870m (Ans) f8~ Ct

x (96 x 18 x4.6)

Solution (b)
To calculate the 8M in the damaged
~
condition: III = Ixx -(A X d2) Fig. 22.26

1. Calculate the distance of the new LCF from one side of the WPA (XX in figure 22.26)
Take moments of area about side XX

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

285
 Calculate the transverse moment of inertia about the axis passing through the new position
of the LCF
111= ~ _fP.3 (La -Ib) x if
3 3

= (~)-(~) [(96X18J-(24X6J] X 9.5452

3 3

I" = 186624 -1728 (1728 -144) x 9.5452

III = 184896 -(1584 x 9.5452)

III = 40582 m4

Calculate the 8M for the bilged condition 8M = 1

V
Using the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method the volume of displacement
remains constant, therefore: 8M =.1Q.Q§,g = 5.105 m (Ans)
(96 x 18x4.6)

22.5.5 Calculating the angle of list resulting from an amidships side compartment
becoming bilged.
Consider a box-shaped vessel with side compartments fro!
amidships as in figure 22.27. F is the centre of flotation
initially on the centre line. The vessel is floating upright
on an even keel when a side compartment becomesbilged.
The volume of buoyancy lost is shown.

Fig. 22.27
The vessel will sink to regain the buoyancy lost. Figure
22.28 illustrates the shape of the buoyancy gained.

Because the water plane area has changed shape the

centre of flotation moves off the centre line of the vessel
(F to F1). This causes the axis of rotation of the water
plane area to move off the centre line as already
discussed.

Fig. 22.28
Figure 22.29 shows the vessel after it has experienced
t ~
sinkage but before it lists.

The transfer of the volume of buoyancy (b to b1) causesthe

centre of buoyancy, 8, to move off the centre line
(and upwards) to 81. The horizontal component of this
shift creates the listing lever, which is equal to GX.

t
Fig. 22.29
"
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging 286
'"
3.
2.
The vessel will now list over to the bilged side (figure
~f
22.30). ';
t
~ 1-',~
t \

Where XM is the GM in the bilged condition. I\

Because of the symmetry of a box-shaped vessel BBH
is equal to the movement of the centre of flotation off
the centre line (FF1) that is found by taking moments of
area of the water plane area about one edge (see
example 10).

Therefore:

~
When calculating list arising from the loading, \.
discharging or shifting of weights the formula: Fig. 22.30

I Tan 9UST= ~':! I is used.

I GM I

In this instance, GGH is the cause of the list, which represents the distance that the centre of
gravity of the ship is off the centre line at the time for which the list is being calculated.

When calculating the list caused by the bilging of a side compartment the formula:

is used.

Here the list is being caused by the horizontal component of the movement of the centre of
buoyancy and the GM is that which applies to the vessel's damaged condition.

Example 11
A box-shaped vessel floating upright on an even keel in saltwater has the following particulars:
Length 120 m Breadth 25 m Draught 6.00 m KG 5.80 m
The vessel has a centre line watertight bulkhead with an empty amidships side compartment of
20m length.

Calculate the angle of list when this comparlment becomes bilged.

Solution
By the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method:
KG remains constant;
Displacement (and volume of displacement) remains constant.

Do a simple sketch.

r) ~
25,",'" CL

lxo x
if;
Fig. 22.31
CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging
. 287
 Calculate the sinkage and new upright draught.

Consider the shapes of the volumes of buoyancy gained and lost.

Fig. 22.32

VOLUME OF BUOYANCY LOST = VOLUME OF BUOYANCY GAINED

Let x = sinkage 20 x 12.5 x 6 = ((120 x 25) -(20

x 12.5) xl x
1500 = 2750x )
x = 0.545 m
Therefore the mean draught in the bilged condition = 6.000 + 0.545 = 6.545 m

Calculate the new position of the LCF from side XX (and hence BBHJ
Take moments of area about side XX.
Dist. :~o_mxx I_1~~5~:?,
Moments
Total Area ~r~:.'~~~ I 37500
~a~artment =:j~~- I I 1562.5
35937.5

LCF is now 13.068 m from side XX.

Since the LCFhas moved of the centre line by an amount equal to: 13.068 -12.5 = 0.568m
BBH is also equal to 0.568 m.
The distance between the axes to be used = 13.068 m.

Calculate the transverse moment of inertia about the axis passing through the new position
of the LCF 111=Ixx -(A X d2)

'" =

I" = 625000 -13021 (3000 -250) x 13.0682

I" = 611979 -469625

I" = 142354 m4

4. Calculate 8M for the bilged condition8M = 1

V
Using the lost buoyancy (constant displacement) method the volume of displacement
remains constant, therefore: 8M = 142354 = 7.909 m
(120 x 25 x 6)

Calculate KB for the bilged condition

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging 288

1li6~
3.
1.
2.
5.
 Calculate the GM in the bilged condition
KM=KB+BM
Therefore: KM = 3.273 + 7.909 = 11.182 m
GM=KM-KG
Therefore: GM = 11.182 -5.800 = 5.382 m

Calculate the list

Tan 8UST= .§§H

GMBILGED

Tan fJUST= M§§ = 0.10554

-
5.382
List = 6.020 (Ans)

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

289

0
[7.6.
 22.6 REVIEW OF PRINCIPLES OF BILGING TO BE APPLIED TO CALCULATIONS
The accepted method of conducting bilging calculations is by using the Lost Buoyancy (Constant
Displacement) method.
This assumes:
1. Whatever compartment is bilged, the volume of displacement (and displacement) does not change.

The KG of the vessel remains constant.

If the bilged compartment extends the full depth of the vessel, KB in the final condition will
always be half the final draught.

4. If flooding of the compartment is restricted by a watertight flat below the final waterline final
KB is not half the draught; it must be found bj taking moments of volume about the keel.
Doing a sketch for the final waterline condition will confirm this.

The centre of flotation is always at the centroid of the intact water plane area. If the bilged
compartment is amidships the centre of flotation will always be amidships.
If the bilged compartment is at the end of the vessel and there is no restricting watertightflat,
then the LCF will be at half the length of the remaining intact water plane i.e. it will
move a distance equal to half the length of the bilged compartment.
If the bilged compartment is at the end of the vessel and there is a restricting watertightflat,
then the LCF will remain at amidships since the water plane area will not be affected.

The position of B will be vertically below the centre of flotation if the bilged compartment
extends the full depth of the vessel. In this instance any shift in Band F will be the same.

If the bilged compartment is at the end and flooding is restricted by a watertight flat B will
not be in line with the LCF in the final condition i.e. LCF will remain amidships but B will
move away from amidships (away from the position of the centroid of the bilged
compartment). The LCB must be calculated by taking moments of volume about the aft
perpendicular. Doing a sketch for the final waterline condition will confirm this.

8M = ! always, whether transversely or longitudinally.

V
I is the moment of inertia of the intact water plane area taken about an axis passing through
the centre of flotation.
V is the volume of displacement. When using the constant displacement (lost buoyancy) method
V remains constant so always use the original length, breadth and draught of the vessel.

9. Side compaltments: In examinations the only scenario which is considered (usually) is

where an amidships side compartment extending upwards the full depth of the vessel
becomes bilged. In this case the movement of both the centre of flotation (FF1) and the
centre of buoyancy (BBH) off the centre line wll be the same, keeping them in the same
vertical. The new positions of both Band F are found by taking moments of the water plane
area about one side (XX in example 11).
The KB in the bilged condition is taken to be half the bilged draught. This is not strictly true
since this only applies when the centre of flotation is on the centre line (where the water
plane area remains intact). The vessel will heel/list about a longitudinal axis that passes
through the centre of flotation whereby the increase in draught on the heeled side will equal
the decrease on draught on the high side. If the centre of flotation is off the centre line (F1),
as in the case considered, then there will be a greater increase of draught on the heeled
side than decrease in draught on the high side. However, provided that the list is small, any
error is assumed negligible so may be ignored.
Finally, the list is calculated using: Tan 9UST= §..§.H
GMBILGED
where the list is caused by the movement of the centre of buoyancy off the centre line and
not the movement of a weight as in a normal list problem.

CLASS 2/1 STABILITY -SECTION 22 -Bilging

290
3.
5.
6.
2.
7.
8.