Kajsa explores ship dynamics in her thesis project at Wallenius Marine
How are ships affected by movements at sea, and when do accelerations become so significant that they risk causing problems on board?
Kajsa Engelfeldt is in the final year of her Master of Science in Engineering studies at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, specializing in Naval Architecture and Marine Systems. She is currently completing her master’s thesis with the Ship Design New Building team at Wallenius Marine.
In her thesis, Kajsa is analysing ship dynamics and acceleration data to improve understanding of how vessels are affected by different stability conditions. As part of her work, she visited Way Forward:
“I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time talking with the crew, which gave me valuable insights into how accelerations affect the people who live and work on board. I enjoy practical subjects such as mechanics and structural engineering, and I’ve always been interested in ships and boats. At the same time, Marine Systems felt like a somewhat uncertain choice at first because I didn’t know much about the industry or the opportunities available. But I chose what seemed the most interesting – and I haven’t regretted it,” says Kajsa.
Kajsa is analysing acceleration data from several vessels within the Wallenius group. The aim is to gain a better understanding of when high accelerations occur and how they are linked to a vessel’s stability.
– It is an area where there are currently very few guidelines. At the same time, Wallenius has identified that it can create challenges. On some vessels, crew members have experienced high accelerations as uncomfortable. In extreme cases, they may also increase the risk of accidents among the crew or damage to cargo.
The hope is that the project will contribute valuable knowledge that can support future work in this area.
From summer job to Master’s Thesis
Completing her thesis at Wallenius Marine feels like a natural step for Kajsa, who also spent last summer working within Ship Design New Building.
– I think Wallenius is a very interesting company, not least because of its strong focus on sustainability. Since the group also owns and operates vessels, there is a close connection to operational reality. That provides an understanding of how ships are actually used, which I believe is important for becoming a good naval architect.”
One of the highlights of her thesis work has been the opportunity to join Way Forward on a voyage from Ireland to Spain.
– It was a fantastic experience. Being on board and seeing the operation up close gave me a completely different perspective on the work I’m doing. It also made the analysis and research questions in my thesis much more tangible.”
For Kajsa, it is the combination of theory and practice, breadth and complexity that makes ship design so exciting.
“A vessel consists of an incredible number of systems that must work together. The design must withstand loads and harsh conditions at sea while also providing a functional workplace and a home for the crew. There are always new areas to explore and learn more about.”
Heading toward a future in the maritime industry
After completing her thesis, Kajsa will join the Lighthouse Trainee Programme. The programme gives recently graduated professionals the opportunity to gain experience from different parts of the maritime industry and build a broad network early in their careers.
“After that, I hope to work as a naval architect at a company where I can continue to develop, take on responsibilities and contribute to exciting projects,” Kajsa concludes.
Wallenius Marine is participating in the Lighthouse Trainee Programme and sees it as a valuable way to contribute to the future competence supply of the maritime industry. In addition, the company welcomes students from universities, colleges and upper secondary schools, providing opportunities to gain practical experience, learn more about the business and discover the many career paths available within the industry.
The hope is that these experiences will spark curiosity and inspire more young people to pursue a future in shipping.
