Analysis of the main mechanisms of ship hull degradation: synergistics, modeling, and monitoring methods

Abstract

Corrosion wastage, fatigue damage and crack formation are the main mechanisms of degradation of ship hull structures. Their combined action leads to an accelerated reduction in load‑bearing capacity and complicates the prediction of residual life. Objective - to analyse the mutual influence of these factors and to assess the capabilities of modern methods for monitoring and predicting the technical condition of a ship's hull. To achieve this goal, classical durability assessment models are considered, including Paris law and Miner's rule, probabilistic approaches based on the Cox proportional hazards model, as well as modern data processing methods based on machine learning algorithms. Results. It is shown that the combined action of corrosion and cyclic loading leads to a significant reduction in durability compared to the isolated effect of each factor. It has been established that local forms of corrosion act as stress concentrators and contribute to accelerated fatigue damage development. A conceptual structure of an integrated system for monitoring the technical condition of the hull is proposed, combining various types of sensors and intelligent data processing methods. Practical significance. The results can be used in the development of ship technical condition monitoring systems and in improving approaches to condition‑based maintenance, as well as in the preparation of regulatory documents by classification societies.