Abstract
This paper is concerned with a practical guide for the ultimate longitudinal strength assessments of ships' hull structure. Rigorous non-linear structural analysis for three tanker models has been carried out to examine the ultimate strength behavior. Formula of estimating the ultimate longitudinal strength has been proposed which is modified with the results of non-linear finite element analysis of hull girders. Computational reliability and accuracy of the large-scale non-linear finite element analysis and the proposed simplified formula are verified through comparing their results with that of 1/3 scale frigate model test and DNVs program. Additionally, the ultimate longitudinal strength for ten tanker models is compared with those by the method specified in the 2nd Draft of common structural rule for tankers, which is being developed by IACS.