Prediction of Propeller Performance Using Computational Fluid Dynamics Approach

Abstract

A reliable prediction approach to obtain a sufficient thrust and torque to propel the ship at desired forward speed is obviously required. To achieve this objective, the authors propose to predict the thrust coefficient (KT), torque coefficient (KQ) and efficiency (η) of the propeller in open-water model test condition using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation approach. The computational simulation presented in the various number of rotational speed (RPM) within the range of advance ratio J=0.1 up to 1.05. The higher value of J lead to decrease 10KQ and KT. While the η increased steadily at the lower value of J and decreased at the higher value of J. The results also showed that the propeller with 1048 rpm obtain a better efficiency at J=0.95 with η= 88.25%, 10KQ=0.1654 and KT= 0.0942. The computation result is very useful as preliminary data for propeller performance characteristics.