Estimating radiated noise of cavitating propeller using standard propeller design tools

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to investigate the noise radiated by sheet cavitation from marine propellers of different geometric configurations under the same specific operating conditions. The primary objective is to develop a deeper understanding of how variations in propeller design affect the water-borne spectrum, thus providing valuable insights for the acoustic optimization in the design of marine propellers. The research was conducted in collaboration with DWShipConsult - JASCO Applied Sciences, a company specializing in naval architecture services related to vibrations and noise. Instead of using the traditional Ffowcs-Williams and Hawkings equation, an alternative methodology was introduced based on the manipulation of the sheet cavitation volume. Advanced numerical simulations were performed to measure the quantity of vapour in the propeller blade. The outcomes of the study demonstrated that the skew angle has a significant impact on the radiated noise due to sheet cavitation. This research is part of the final thesis for the dual master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Liège and in Naval and Ocean Engineering from the University of Rostock, marking the culmination of a deep and valuable personal and academic learning experience.