Ballast is an essential element in maritime engineering, helping to ensure the stability, safety, and efficiency of vessels. One type of ballast commonly used is fixed ballast. In this blog post, we will explore how fixed ballast is utilized in vessels and its significance in modern shipbuilding.
Fixed ballast is a permanent and non-moveable weight that is incorporated into the design and construction of a vessel. Fixed ballast is typically made of dense material, such as Perma Ballast®, and is carefully calculated and positioned in specific locations within the ship. This optimizes the vessel's stability and trim, which are crucial for safe and efficient operation at sea.
One of the primary functions of this material is to lower the vessel's center of gravity (COG), improving its stability. By adding weight at the bottom of the ship, fixed ballast can counteract the forces acting on the vessel, such as wind, waves, and cargo loads. Properly positioned fixed ballast ensures that the vessel remains upright.
Fixed ballast also plays a critical role in optimizing a vessel's trim. Trim refers to the longitudinal balance of a ship, or the difference in draft between the forward and aft sections. Uneven trim can affect a ship's performance, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. By distributing the ballast in specific locations, shipbuilders can achieve the desired trim, helping the vessel to sail smoothly and efficiently through the water.
Furthermore, fixed ballast enhances the vessel's structural integrity, overall strength, durability and thus, service life. It reinforces the ship's hull and prevents excessive bending or deformation, especially during rough sea conditions.
Ballast Technologies, Inc. (BTI) pioneered the Perma Ballast® system for installing dense phase fixed ballast slurry into both new and refitted ships in the early 1980’s and has completed over 250 projects since that time. Perma Ballast®, our pumpable fixed ballast product and installation process, is widely regarded as the most economical and fastest solution for trim and stability problems.
In short, fixed ballast is a crucial component in modern shipbuilding, providing stability, trim optimization, and structural reinforcement to vessels contributing to their overall safety, performance, and longevity.
