USCG Exam PracticeVessel stability — metacentric height, free surface
A fishing vessel operating north of 42°N latitude between November 15 and April 15 operates south of 66°30'N latitude. Under 46 CFR §28.550, what ice loading must be assumed for horizontal projected surfaces?
- A. 6.14 pounds per square foot (30 kg/m²)
- B. No ice loading is required south of 66°30'N
- ✓ 3.07 pounds per square foot (15 kg/m²)Correct
- D. 4.60 pounds per square foot (22.5 kg/m²)
Why C is correct
46 CFR §28.550(c) requires vessels operating north of 42°N but south of 66°30'N to assume ice loading of at least one-half the values in §28.550(b). The full value in §28.550(b)(1) is 6.14 lb/ft², so one-half equals 3.07 lb/ft² (15 kg/m²) for horizontal projected areas.
Cited:46 CFR §28.550