Experimental study on the water entry of a 3D bow-flared model with various inclination angles

Oblique water entry of the ship bow has both the complexity of structure shape and the water entry attitude, which involves strong nonlinear free surface effect and thus, complexes the prediction of slamming loads. This paper conducted the drop experimental investigation on the impact hydrodynamics of a 3D bow-flare model with inclination angles to help clarify the impact characteristics. The experimental uncertainty was discussed based on repeatable and oscillation analysis showing good stability. Characteristics of bow-flared model in oblique impact including water entry depth, acceleration, pressure and impact force were analyzed. Differing to simple 3D bodies like cones and cylinders, multiple pressure peaks appear at some positions, which should be paid attention. The influence of inclination angles on pressure was further discussed, showing the pressure at the bottom and leeward side (right side) decreases while it increases on the windward side with inclination angle. These findings offer evidence for a complex interplay between geometric parameters and inclination angles, which could ultimately serve the ship design.