Above and Below: Model Basin Testing The modeling performed on the barriers also simulated high seas, heavy weather,
and high currents conditions.
Witnesses to various tests included
Waterside Security Lead, The Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Anti-Terrorism Force Protection (ATFP) Ashore program
Submarine Security Group, Applied Physics Lab, Johns Hopkins University
Independent analysis of the test data was performed by the U.S. Navy. They determined boat attack speeds, using the high speed data recorded by a Navy-funded photographic team as part of a no-cost contract, that enabled sharing of the data.
Harbor Offshore Barriers, Inc.
Tel: (805) 677-2102
From outside the U.S.A. please dial 001 805 677 2102
Fax: (805) 677-5806 info@offshorebarriers.com
Harbor Offshore’s Barriers Are Backed By
The Most Rigorous Testing In The Industry
Full scale testing in a realistic situation is the only way to demonstrate the true effectiveness of any barrier system.
We have proven the effectiveness of our barriers by both complex computer aided AQWA modeling and full scale testing. Vessels hit the same nets multiple times under a variety of loading conditions. During the entire full scale test event, vessels are under full power.
The U.S. Navy first tested PSB’s in 1994. Computer and small scale modeling were then used to develop design improvements. Recently Harbor Offshore conducted full-scale tests in exposed waters off the southern coast of the USA.
Realistic testing conditions with independent observers assure high integrity results that deter against false claims, false testing and faked results that cannot be backed up or validated.
Our test program assessed alternative net materials and developed data for calibration and validation of numerical models that can be used to extrapolate performance of alternative configurations and requirements. A further objective was to satisfy the requirements of the new International Boat Barrier Standard currently under development by ASTM International. This Standard will likely include the requirements for boat barriers at six levels of energy absorption.
The tests were performed with realistic barrier sections, under realistic ocean conditions using high-speed boats that were remotely controlled for safe operation. The test boats and the test barriers were instrumented with load cells and video cameras and the impact test was filmed with high-speed digital video cameras and a high-definition video camera.
The full scale tests recently conducted tested both the PSB and the FSB net capture systems.
The PSB employs a continuous net capture system supported on a pontoon structure to stop or delay hostile craft to allow authorities to respond. The net system provides the majority of the boat stopping capability and varies in size and type depending upon the design boat threat. The steel truss and nets provide the secondary deterrent against multiple attacks.
The FSB employs a continuous net capture system that can be located in open waters, under decks and between spans when supported by catenary suspension wires. Depending upon the type and size of the wire, net size and boat stopping requirement, additional materials can be sized and additional energy absorbing devices may be required.
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