Groundbreaking mooring tool launched by HR Wallingford/Witherby Partnership

SHIPMOOR, a new ship mooring tool that performs static and dynamic ship mooring analyses in a rapid, user friendly and intuitive manner, has been launched by HR Wallingford and Witherbys.

Created to make the assessment of mooring an LNG carrier a straightforward and user driven process, SHIPMOOR uses the power of cloud based servers to undertake live mooring analysis for each ship. The internet based tool offers an efficient solution for the significant amount of calculation and processing required in this sort of analysis

With mooring errors and disconnections often causing lengthy delays, SHIPMOOR mitigates the input of incorrect data by hosting an up to date, standardised database of LNG port information, enabling live sharing of information between all parties involved in the mooring of a ship, from the operator through to the assessments office and the team at the berthing location.  

In providing transparency and accurate data alongside a 3D visualisation of any arrangement, the program provides safer and more efficient berthing.

Dr Mark McBride, Ships and Dredging Group Manager at HR Wallingford, said: “SHIPMOOR can be used for all types of ships to validate their mooring arrangements against the conditions they will encounter.  In the case of LNG carriers, the results can be validated against industry specific environmental criteria.”

“SHIPMOOR improves safety by mitigating the risk of mooring line failure, excessive ship movement and emergency disconnection of the loading arms.”

Technical Director at Witherbys, Johan Machtelinckx, added: “With traditional methods for preparing the mooring of LNG carriers often causing errors and delays, SHIPMOOR is truly a 21st century solution for mooring analysis. By optimising a process that usually requires a lengthy and data intensive setup, SHIPMOOR saves vast amounts of time for each mooring operation.”

Developed with security at its heart, SHIPMOOR runs within an internet browser and meets the IMO’s newly introduced cybersecurity requirements.

HR Wallingford is an independent organisation, established for more than 70 years, offering specialist consultancy and applied research services in civil engineering and environmental hydraulics to clients worldwide. The company has an international reputation for scientific and engineering excellence, and delivers practical solutions to complex water related challenges faced by its international clients and partners. A dynamic research programme underpins its work, ensuring it is at the leading edge of the industry.

Based in Edinburgh, Witherbys is one of Scotland’s largest and most successful publishing companies, exporting a portfolio of more 400 specialist titles in the shipping sector to more than 110 countries.  For more information about SHIPMOOR and to view a demonstration, please visit https://www.shipmoor.com