Speed trials measure more than maximum knots. Fuel efficiency determines practical range, and an engine revision can raise power while reducing efficiency. These differences also affect whether ships can operate together. Maneuvering trials test the completed ship's stability, including how its metacentric height affects rolling and heeling during high-energy turns. Together, the tests show whether changes in machinery and weight have altered the performance expected from the design.
Notable Point · 3:36-4:24
Range, efficiency, and metacentric height
Speed and maneuvering trials turn design estimates into measured range, fuel efficiency, and stability under high-energy turns.