Pivot Point

In this text we will try to keep the theory of pivot point very simple and will not discuss about ship turning circle diagram as our aim is to reach to practical application of pivot point.

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Below is important info about pivot point:-

1. It’s an imaginary point at which a ship/vessel is pivoted while turning.

2. Its position is not stationary and will change with vessel’s speed over water.

 

 

Position of pivot point(V/l at even keel)

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1. While v/l is stationary,

       The pivot point will be at ships center of gravity, approximately amidship.

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   2. V/l Just started to move ahead

     As soon as a force is applied (like engine kick), the bow section faces a resistance from stationary water wall hence          momentarily pivot point will reach/shoot to the bow position(shown as P1).

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   3. V/l moving ahead

     As vessel picks up ahead speed the pivot point will settle roughly 1/4thof ship length from bow(shown as P).

 

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   4. V/l falling back /sternway

   If vessel is having sternway, the pivot point will settle roughly 1/4thof ship length from stern.

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   In next chapter we will discuss the most important application of pivot point theory, i.e.Turning lever and turning moment.