Abstract
The Norwegian Defence Material Agency (NDMA), in close cooperation with SINTEF Ocean and Maritime Robotics, carried out a series of experimental manoeuvres to provoke spinout on a high-speed Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB). Results from the experiments shows that violent steering action(e.g. evasive manoeuvring) with a light loading condition and a low/deep “power trim”-setting in combination with high speed, may be an unfortunate combination of parameters that may provoke spinouts. We also found that the acceleration level in the horizontal plane (sway) during spinout incidents are harmful and dangerous to personnel, as personnel risk to be ejected into the water where consecutive risk of injury or casualty arise. The paper will conclude based on the findings from the experiments, and provide some specific advice regarding operation of RHIBs and training of crew members.
