OMC is the world’s leading authority on the determination of under-keel clearance (UKC) requirements. Knowledge gained from extensive research, full-scale measurement and an unparalleled history in supplying and maintaining operational Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC®) systems is applied to OMC’s analysis of UKC requirements for waterways.

OMC has undertaken UKC studies for the majority of ports in Australia and New Zealand where vessel movements can be tidally restricted.

The major objective of these studies is to quantify the variation in UKC requirements through a restricted waterway given the range of met-ocean and sailing conditions that could occur. This information is used to evaluate existing waterway operating practice and to plan future operations.

OMC has undertaken a number of under keel clearance (UKC) studies based on DUKC® methodology. The major objectives of such studies are:

Services

Validation & recommendations
For evaluating static underkeel clearance rules, including met-ocean operating limits.

Vessel Access Regimes Analysis
Percentage access for different vessel classes.

Seasonal Access Regimes Analysis
Determination of the changes in port access due to seasonal variations in met-ocean conditions.

Speed Optimisation Analysis
Advice on speed restrictions & port operating procedures. Many factors of UKC are speed dependent. In particular, squat, heel and tidal assistance.

Suitability for DUKC®
Assess the potential increase in waterway yield and safety which could be achieved by implementing a DUKC® System in terms of increased tidal windows and increased draft.