Maritime Systems

Does your system withstand the loads, and is its reliability assured?

Components and maritime structures must withstand complex and variable loads over many years of operation. Load spectra, local stress concentrations, joints and structural modifications affect fatigue strength and service life. Fraunhofer LBF combines experimental structural durability testing with numerical simulation to identify critical areas, validate designs and provide reliable service-life assessments. We also establish traceable foundations for technical decisions involving retrofit, component replacement and unexpected damage.

Assessing Retrofit

Structural modifications affect load paths, stiffness, local stresses and dynamic behavior. We investigate these interactions and assess how changes to the system, for example the replacement of individual components, influence reliability under the prevailing operating conditions and how reliability can be assured. Experimental investigations and simulation-based analyses also help identify the causes of damage and evaluate suitable measures.

How can vibration and sound be predicted, controlled and interpreted to derive monitoring tasks?

Vibration and sound affect structural durability, availability, comfort, environmental compatibility and the reliable operation of maritime systems. Fraunhofer LBF analyzes the dynamic and acoustic behavior of propulsion systems and their components, including engines, gearboxes, propellers, bearings and couplings, as well as pipes and cables under realistic conditions. Measurement and simulation are combined to identify sources and transmission paths, assess critical behavior and develop targeted mitigation measures.

Application-Specific Investigation of Underwater Acoustics

Within feasibility studies, pilot activities and R&D projects, we develop or adapt measurement concepts, analyze signals and assess transmission and radiation mechanisms. Potential outcomes range from measurement studies and data analyses to sensor and monitoring concepts or pilot demonstrators.

Linking Dynamics and Condition Monitoring

Dynamic and acoustic signals can provide indications of changing system states, degradation or altered boundary conditions. Sensors, virtual sensing, models and data-based methods can therefore form the basis for application-specific monitoring and maintenance strategies.

Which materials are suitable for use under marine environmental conditions and in safety-critical systems?

Salt, moisture, UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, operating media and aging affect system properties and can impair performance and reliability. Electrification, hybrid energy and propulsion systems, and alternative fuels place new demands on compatibility and safety. Fraunhofer LBF investigates material resistance, aging and long-term behavior under application-relevant conditions and supports the selection, adaptation and validation of suitable materials and material systems.

Materials for Alternative Propulsion and Energy Systems

The electrification of propulsion systems and the associated integration of batteries and hybrid propulsion and energy systems based on new energy carriers, such as hydrogen, methanol and ammonia, must be investigated, assessed and, where necessary, adapted with regard to their suitability for the prevailing environmental conditions and safety-related aspects such as flame retardancy.

We investigate material compatibility and aging behavior, assess polymers and elastomers, and provide material data for component and system development.

Validating the Technical Performance of Sustainable Alternatives

Recyclates, biobased materials, alternative polymers and modified formulations can offer environmental benefits. For demanding maritime applications, however, durability, safety and function must also be demonstrated. We support the development and assessment of material concepts that combine resource efficiency with technical performance.

Whether the challenge involves a new component, alternative materials, unexpected vibration, retrofit or a monitoring concept, we work with you to identify the relevant engineering questions and develop an application-specific approach.

Your Contact:

Michael Matthias
Division Innovation, Transfer & Cooperation

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