Numerical simulation of the flow field around a propeller

Abstract

This paper reflects the scientific research which I conducted during my Erasmus Mundus master course, especially in the third semester spent at “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galaţi.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods have become a very important tool in ship design: resistance, propulsion, maneuverability, etc. Regarding ship propulsion, CFD codes represent a new capability to greatly improve the design and analysis process of the propellers, in conjunction with experimental tests and analytical methods based on circulation theory and standard series.

Accurate and reliable propeller performances predictions are a fundamental aspect for any analysis and design of a modern propeller. Cavitation and cavity extension are other important problems that influence the efficiency of a propeller, in addition to propagated noise, blade vibration and erosion. Nevertheless, this field of research will not be treated in the presented work.

The Potsdam Propeller Test Case (PPTC) within the SMP Workshop on Cavitation and Propeller Performances represents an excellent chance to test and to validate the abilities achieved in predicting the performances of propellers in open water.

In this paper, the open water performances of the SMP11’s propeller (cf. figure below) will be numerically simulated using a commercial CFD code based on RANS solver with a hybrid mesh. In the following the propeller geometry is known, the methods used are described, as well as the results and conclusions of the analysis and of the experimental tests, from the SMP’11 Workshop on Propeller Performance: Potsdam Propeller Test Case. PPTC