Design and analysis of shipboard electrical distribution

This research is a preliminary design and feasibility analysis of a new type of shipboard electrical distribution system for Naval vessels. The design combines three traditionally separate disciplines: damage control, marine engineering, and electric power engineering to produce a hybrid system well suited for present and future surface warship environments.

The design structure is a combination of shore-based power utility and shipboard distribution. The primary section is an interconnected bus feeder ring which resembles a shipboard vertical loop firemain. The bus feeder ring emulates the firemain’s network structure because it is well suited for both normal and emergency operating conditions. The distribution ring is used to transfer power between fire zones to load centers which radially feed loads within each zone.

The electrical feasibility of the system was established through standard power system load flow contingency analysis, use of Navy design specifications, and direct comparison with an icebreaker radial electrical system.

The new system could best be applied to small ships where the effective use of zone distribution is difficult, or where automation is needed to implement reduced manning. For large ships, this system would provide additional design alternatives which could help to reduce intersystem design interference where the requirements for one system impinge on those of another. As a final point, this system provides a viable network for facilitating the application of shore-based automatic switching technology to Naval vessels.