The primary objective of the PROPSCALE project was to acquire theoretical knowledge and develop practical methods for the accurate prediction of full-scale performance of the vessels equipped with innovative propulsion systems. The main target ships studied in the project were representative of the class of twin-screw offshore vessels and large single-screw cargo vessels. The propulsion systems studied in the project included open propellers, ducted propellers with different duct designs, and pod propulsors of different configurations, including twin-propeller systems. The following research tasks were addressed in the project:
- Development and application of the state-of-the-art numerical methods offered by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to the analysis of novel propulsor concepts and hull-propulsor interaction.
- Systematic verification of the numerical methods and validation against the results of model tests and full-scale sea trials data.
- Implementation of best practices for CFD ship propulsion simulation, and automation of typical simulation setups.
- Revision of the current performance prediction procedures and elaboration of recommendations and guidelines regarding full-scale prognosis for vessels equipped with innovative propulsion systems.
Experimental and numerical investigation of flow transition mechanisms on ducted propellers in model scale.
Studying flow separation at the openings of bow tunnel thrusters.
Understanding the influence interaction mechanisms on the performance of azimuth propulsors with twin propellers.