Reference Design Study of Mist-Jet Propulsion Systems in Captured-Air-Bubble Ships

摘要

A reference design study was made to evaluate the Mist-Jet propulsion system. Performance characteristics of 100-, 500-, and 2500-ton captured-air-bubble surface effect ships with a Mist-Jet, a water-jet, and a propeller propulsion system were examined. Based on cost per ton mile, payload, and fuel use vs speed for various operational ranges, it was concluded the Mist Jet is a superior propulsion system in the 100-ton size for short-range, high-speed operation. The Mist Jet is competitive with the other two systems in larger size ships at longer range. It is recommended the development of the Mist Jet be pursued as it offers additional advantages of no moving parts in contact with the water, the use of state-of-the-art equipment, and low development cost as compared to the water-jet or the supercavitating controllable-pitch propeller systems. (Author)