Wetted Surface Area Calculator

Formula

To calculate the Wetted Surface Area (\(WSA\)):

\[ WSA = WLL \times (B + D) \]

Where:

\(WSA\) is the Wetted Surface Area (ft²)
\(WLL\) is the Water Line Length (feet)
\(B\) is the Beam (feet)
\(D\) is the Draft (feet)

What is Wetted Surface Area?

Wetted surface area is a measure of the surface area of a boat or ship that is in contact with water. It is crucial for understanding the hydrodynamic properties of the vessel, including resistance and drag.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Water Line Length (\(WLL\)) = 30 feet
Beam (\(B\)) = 10 feet
Draft (\(D\)) = 5 feet

Using the formula:

\[ WSA = 30 \times (10 + 5) = 450 \text{ ft²} \]

The Wetted Surface Area is 450 ft².

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Water Line Length (\(WLL\)) = 40 feet
Beam (\(B\)) = 12 feet
Draft (\(D\)) = 6 feet

Using the formula:

\[ WSA = 40 \times (12 + 6) = 720 \text{ ft²} \]

The Wetted Surface Area is 720 ft².