Sea trials test a ship’s seaworthiness, safety, reliability, and performance after construction, repairs, or dry dock. Initial tests are performed dockside, followed by open water tests of propulsion and steering systems. Repairs are made until all parties agree the ship has passed. Checking for leaks is also common.
A sea trial is a phase of testing a ship to ensure its seaworthiness. Sea trials are carried out after new construction, major repairs or when a ship has been in dry dock. These tests are performed to verify the safety, reliability, and performance of a ship. A shakedown cruise is another name for a sea trial, because the ship will be pushed to its limits during the trial.
Sea trials begin with initial startup and evaluation of the various operating systems on board a ship. This test often occurs while the vessel is still dockside and not technically at sea, although it is still part of the sea trial. Depending on the type of ship, the systems being tested may include steering, galley equipment, evaporators, hydraulic systems, refrigerators, air conditioning, generators, navigation, electrical, and main propulsion. If any of the systems are found to be faulty, repairs will be carried out while still in dock and before proceeding with the sea trial.
When all systems pass checks and are approved by the ship’s crew, owner, builder and dry dock personnel, the next phase of a sea trial is overall performance and seaworthiness. The ship is brought out into open water where the main propulsion systems are pushed to their limits. During this phase, the main propulsion systems and propeller shafts are checked for unusual vibrations at full throttle. The steering systems also come to a complete stop at high speeds.
After checking all the systems, the ship’s crew, the dry dock crew and the ship’s owner or builder discuss the result of the sea trial. If there are discrepancies, or if it is determined that changes are needed, the ship is moved alongside the dock and may even enter dry dock for further repair. This process can be repeated until all parties agree that the ship has successfully passed the sea trial.
Checking for leaks is a common activity during a sea trial; however, this is such a necessary procedure that it is not limited to sea trials. If a boat has been in dry dock specifically for hull repairs, checking for leaks in the newly repaired area is an important part of a shakedown. Other frequently inspected areas for leaks during inspections include rudders, shafts, sea valves, and anywhere equipment penetrates the hull.
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