Supreme Shock Resistance

Supreme shock resistance

It is generally believed that water cannot be compressed. However, when subject to a large explosion, an enormous volume of water is compressed into a vast spring within a split-second, which when suddenly released creates a shock wave that can sink a ship or submarine. Therefore, preventing or minimizing the effects of explosions at sea is a high priority, especially in relation to mine countermeasures (MCMs).
Again, this is where Kockums’ FRP sandwich technology proves its value. In this case it is the material’s resilience that provides the advantage. Kockums is committed to satisfying the demands of all shock resistance requirements.

Flexible and energy-absorbing

The load-carrying capabilities and stress distribution of the FRP sandwich is very similar to that of a steel I-beam. However, unlike steel, FRP composite can be tailored to become stiffer, lighter or more flexible.

The double-skin, energy- absorbing FRP sandwich is twice as tough as conventional steel hulls with regard to mine explosions. It also provides 3- to 6-times better survivability for surface vessels on extreme littoral defensive and offensive missions when combined with many other stealth features.

Kockums has built MCMV with FRP sandwich composite hulls since 1974 and has conducted several comparative underwater shock tests on FRP sandwich structures, ranging from panels to full-scale sections and complete
ships. This has shown significantly better resistance for FRP compared with steel or aluminium.

In Kockums ships, the shock resistance of FRP sandwich technology is complemented with resilient-mounted equipment, floating floors and defined clearances between equipment and adjacent structures.

Page updated Monday, November 23, 2009.