Optimization of the Propulsive Efficiency of a Fast Catamaran

Abstract

The present study deals with the local optimization of the stern area and of the propulsive efficiency of a battery-driven, fast catamaran vessel. The adopted approach considers a parametric model for the catamaran’s innovative transom stern and a QCM (Quasi-Continuous Method) body-force model for the effect of the fitted propellers. Hydrodynamic calculations were performed by the CFD code FreSCO+, which also enabled a deep analysis of the incurring unique propulsive phenomena. Numerical results of achieved high propulsive efficiency were verified by model experiments at the Hamburgische Schiffbau Versuchsanstalt (HSVA), proving the feasibility of the concept.

Keywords

• propulsive efficiency
• wake and thrust deduction
• hull efficiency
• tunneled transom
• fast catamaran
• hydrodynamic ship design