CFD prediction and simulation of a pumpjet propulsor

Abstract

In this study an attempt has been made to study the hydrodynamic performance of pumpjet propulsor. Numerical investigation based on the Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method has been carried out. The structured grid and SST k–ω turbulence model have been applied. The numerical simulations of open water performance of marine propeller E779A are carried out with different advance ratios to verify the numerical simulation method. Results show that the thrust and the torque are in good agreements with experimental data. The grid independent inspection is applied to verify accuracy of numerical simulation grid. The numerical predictions of hydrodynamic performance of pumpjet propulsor are carried out with different advance ratios. Results indicate that the rotor provides the main thrust of propulsor and the balance performance of propulsor is generally satisfactory. Additionally, the curve of propulsor efficiency is in good agreement with experimental data. Furthermore, the pressure distributions around rotor and stator blades are reasonable. Beyond that, the existence of tip clearance accounts for the appearance of tip vortex that leads to a further loss in efficiency and a probability of cavitation phenomenon.

Keywords

• Pumpjet propulsor
• Numerical investigation
• Hydrodynamic performance
• Computational fluid dynamics