A Preliminary Investigation of Model Ice Failure Pattern and Piece Size Generated by IceBreaker Bow Form

Abstract

The icebreaking pattern and piece size is studied by photographing the breaking pattern in EG/AD model ice after the icebreaker model has been stopped and backed up. The ice pieces broken by the bow float to the surface and the breaking pattern is evident. Three different scale models or the R-Class icebreaker have been tested (1:40, 1:20, 1:8), as well as a 1:22.5 scale model or the "Kigoriak". The data from these tests are compared to the available full scale data. Comparisons show a realistic breaking pattern in the model ice, but non-dimensionalized piece sizes are larger than those in full scale. Cracks in the model ice pieces indicate a smaller piece size, but this is prevented by what ls believed to be a high residual strength in the model ice.