Types of Loading Computer Stability Software
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has revised its Unified Requirements for Loading Computer Stability Software in 2020 (UR L5 Revision 4).
Changes introduced in UR L5 Revision 4 are to be uniformly applied by IACS on ships contracted for construction on or after 1 July 2021.
Four types of calculations performed by stability software are acceptable depending upon a vessel’s stability requirements:
Type 1
Software calculating intact stability only (for vessels not required to meet a damage stability criterion). This would require only the intact module in LOCOPIAS.
Type 2
Software calculating intact stability and checking damage stability on basis of a limit curve (e.g. for vessels applicable to SOLAS Part B-1 damage stability calculations, etc.) or checking all the stability requirements (intact and damage stability) on the basis of a limit curve. This would require the intact module including a maximum VCG’ table in LOCOPIAS.
Type 3
Software calculating intact stability and damage stability by direct application of preprogrammed damage cases based on the relevant Conventions or Codes for each loading condition (for some tankers etc.). This would require at least the intact module together with the direct damage module in LOCOPIAS.
Type 4
Software calculating damage stability associated with an actual loading condition and actual flooding case, using direct application of user defined damage, for the purpose of providing operational information for Safe Return to Port (SRtP). This would also require the intact, direct damage and damage control module in LOCOPIAS.
Damage stability of both Type 3 and Type 4 stability software in LOCOPIAS is based on a hull form model, that is, directly calculated from a full three-dimensional geometric model.
LOCOPIAS is accepted by all major classification societies. It complies with Cat. B and C of ISO standard 16155 (Shipboard Loading Instruments) as well as IACS (International Association of Classification Societies) requirements. LOCOPIAS has been certified by Lloyd’s Register and DNV, a prominent international classification society.
Alternatively to a stability computer capable of providing the master with opermational information after a flooding (type 4), a shore-based support proving the same can be used. We are capable of assessing the impact on your ship’s stability and strength after flooding, grounding, fire/explosion, collision, etc.