Metacentric Height Calculator

Estimate GM, BM, KB, and stability trends using practical vessel inputs for marine design checks. Review balance changes under load with clear engineering context.

Input Data

Example Data Table

Case Displacement Volume (m³) I (m⁴) KB (m) KG (m) BM (m) GM (m)
Harbor Barge 850 420 2.40 3.10 0.4941 -0.2059
Patrol Craft 120 92 1.10 1.55 0.7667 0.3167
Service Pontoon 300 210 1.55 1.90 0.7000 0.3500

Formula Used

The calculator follows the classic initial stability method for floating bodies.

BM = I / ∇ GM = KB + BM - KG GZ ≈ GM × sin(heel angle) Righting Moment = Displacement Weight × GZ

Here, I is the second moment of the waterplane area, ∇ is displacement volume, KB is the center of buoyancy above keel, and KG is the center of gravity above keel.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter the vessel or floating body name for record tracking.
  2. Input displacement volume in cubic meters.
  3. Enter the waterplane second moment of area in fourth-power meters.
  4. Provide KB and KG values from the same vertical datum.
  5. Set the fluid density for seawater, freshwater, or another fluid.
  6. Enter a small heel angle to estimate the righting arm.
  7. Click the calculation button to show results above the form.
  8. Use the export buttons to save the result summary as CSV or PDF.

Engineering Notes

Positive GM indicates initial stability. Negative GM suggests instability.

The righting arm equation used here is accurate for small heel angles. Larger heel studies need full cross-curve or hydrostatic analysis.

This tool supports early design reviews, educational checks, and load-change screening for marine platforms, barges, pontoons, and similar floating structures.

Related Calculators

ship speed calculatorpropeller pitch calculatorballast weight calculatorrighting arm calculatoroverall efficiency calculatoradvance ratio calculatorwaterplane area calculatorrange estimation calculatorplate thickness calculatorship stability calculator

Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.