Propulsion and Flow Visualization Experiments with Two Tunnel Stern Merchant Vessels Utilizing a Large Diameter Propeller

摘要

Flow visualization, resistance and propulsion experiments were conducted on a model hull representing a U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) high-speed containership with the design stern removed and replaced with two different tunnel stern hull concepts that allow the fitting of a large diameter single screw propeller. The results of the resistance and propulsion experiments indicate that the first tunnel stern design requires 8.1 percent less delivered power than the conventional single screw design. The second tunnel stern design requires 4.0 percent less delivered power than the conventional single screw design. Comparison to a twin screw configuration shows a delivered power decrease of 10.2 and 6.2 percent respectively for the two tunnel stern hull designs. Resistance and powering predictions and flow visualization results are further used to compare the predicted performance of the two tunnel stern hulls.