The way all-weather life-boats are designed is set for a re-evaluation as part of a study being led by Newcastle University and the RNLI, with support from Lloyds’ Register.
The four-year project will investigate how new technology and materials can be used to improve the design, operation and maintenance of the RNLI’s Severn Class lifeboats.
Using computer models, small-scale experiments and full-size trials to analyse the behaviour of lifeboats at a range of speeds and in varying conditions, the findings will inform new design specifications for speed, safety and efficiency.
Richard Birmingham, Professor of Small Craft Design at Newcastle University’s School of Marine Science and Technology, said: “The ability to safely perform at high speed and in extreme conditions is not only imperative for the safety of the volunteer crew but also has a direct effect on the efficiency and reliability of the search-and-rescue service.
“Designing a boat that is capable of travelling safely at greater speed and under the most extreme conditions means a better response to emergency call-outs and less transit time to reach the casualty.”
Project leader Federico Prini, research associate at the School of Marine Science and Technology, said: “When the RNLI’s lifeboats travel at speed and in rough seas, they can be subject to frequent and significant slamming as they crash against the waves.
"Measuring these forces and their impact is crucial in order to design a craft that is capable of withstanding them. That is what we are setting out to do, using the latest technology and equipment here at Newcastle University.”