Calm-water resistance estimation for displacement ships using a transparent, simplified Holtrop–Mennen formulation.
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The Holtrop–Mennen method is a semi-empirical approach used to estimate the calm-water resistance of displacement ships. It combines theoretical hydrodynamic principles with regression-based corrections derived from extensive model test data. The method is widely applied during preliminary ship design to assess resistance components and effective power requirements before detailed CFD or towing tank studies are performed.
The method was developed by J. Holtrop and G.G.J. Mennen during the 1970s and 1980s at the Netherlands Ship Model Basin (NSMB, now MARIN). It was published as a unified resistance prediction framework covering a broad range of conventional displacement hull forms. Since its publication, the Holtrop–Mennen method has become a reference standard in naval architecture education and early-stage ship design.
The Holtrop–Mennen method decomposes total calm-water resistance into physically meaningful components. Each component is estimated using a combination of analytical expressions and empirical correction factors that account for hull form, scale effects, and operating conditions.
In simplified form, total resistance can be expressed as:
RT = RF(1 + k) + RAPP + RA + RAIR + RW
where frictional resistance RF is computed using the ITTC-1957 line, (1 + k) is the viscous form factor, RAPP accounts for appendages, RA is the correlation allowance, RAIR represents air resistance, and RW denotes wave-making resistance.
The Holtrop–Mennen method is applicable primarily to conventional displacement vessels operating in calm water. Typical applicability ranges include:
The Holtrop–Mennen method is most valuable during the concept and preliminary design phases. It allows naval architects to compare hull variants, evaluate speed–power relationships, and estimate propulsion requirements without resorting to computationally expensive tools.
Because resistance components are explicitly separated, the method also provides insight into how changes in hull form, wetted surface, or appendage configuration influence overall performance.
The Holtrop–Mennen resistance method is typically used alongside other preliminary design tools to build a complete performance picture:
Tip: Holtrop–Mennen results are most reliable when all geometric inputs and coefficients are internally consistent and represent the same operating draft and loading condition.