Efficiency Considerations of Power to Thrust Conversion in Underwater Thrusters

摘要

Propulsion systems are a central element to all underwater vehicles. A wide range of design parameters must be considered to provide the best propulsion for each specific vehicle. In order to properly evaluate different propulsion systems, it is important to understand the tradeoffs between size and weight, propeller geometry, power source, power transmission and kinetic energy conversion to thrust produced by each horsepower of input. The necessary data is typically available on most specification sheets from manufacturers to obtain thrust and corresponding input power parameters. In some cases, input power is only provided indirectly by giving Hydraulic Pressure and Flow Rate, or for electrical motors by specifying Voltage and Current. All of these parameters can provide input power values at corresponding thrust levels. This paper presents the ideal theoretical kinetic jet energy conversion to thrust as a baseline from which to compare the merits and efficiencies of different thrusters.