• 13.2.1 Statical stability

• 13.2.2 Initial Stability

STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY

Structural integrity is the term used for the performance characteristic applied to a component, a single structure, or a structure consisting of different components. Structural integrity is the ability of an item to hold together under a load, including its own weight, resisting breakage or bending.

The ship structure is designed to support the numerous weights that rest upon it (including its own weight) and to resist the local forces produced by its weights, local buoyant forces, and other external forces from the sea.

13.2.1 Statical stability

It is defined as the ability of a ship to regain its upright equilibrium position after the removal of the external factor which caused the vessel to heel at an angle.

13.2.2 Initial stability

Initial stability is the resistance a ship offers to heeling at small angles of inclination (typically up to 5-10 degrees). It describes the ship's tendency to return to an upright position after being slightly disturbed.