Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Underwater Radiated Noise Levels Of A Research Icebreaker In The Central Arctic Ocean, Ethan H. Roth, Val E. Schmidt, John A. Hildebrand, Sean M. Wiggins

Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Healy's underwater radiated noise signature was characterized in the central Arctic Ocean during different types of ice-breaking operations. Propulsion modes included transit in variable ice cover, breaking heavy ice with backing-and-ramming maneuvers, and dynamic positioning with the bow thruster in operation. Compared to open-water transit, Healy's noise signature increased approximately 10 dB between 20 Hz and 2 kHz when breaking ice. The highest noise levels resulted while the ship was engaged in backing-and-ramming maneuvers, owing to cavitation when operating the propellers astern or in opposing directions. In frequency bands centered near 10, 50, and 100 Hz, …