Preliminary communication
https://doi.org/10.7225/toms.v14.n02.s05
Optimization of Propeller Performance Characteristics
Ante Čalić
; University of Split, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Split, Croatia
Nenad Vulić
; University of Split, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Split, Croatia
Igor Pavlović
; University of Split, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Split, Croatia
*
Marko Katalinić
; University of Split, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Split, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
This paper presents the computational tool designed to calculate and optimize the performance characteristics of marine propellers, specifically Wageningen B-series propellers. The tool consists of two main modules: the thrust calculator, which estimates the thrust and efficiency of a propeller based on empirical and experimental data, and the optimization module, which utilizes brute-force and genetic algorithm methods to determine the optimal propeller configurations. By integrating basic input parameters such as ship speed, propeller diameter, pitch, and other essential characteristics, the tool is implemented to search for and find the solution for improving propulsion efficiency. The effectiveness of the tool is demonstrated through case studies on two vessels, a container ship and a special-purpose vessel, where significant improvements in propeller performance were identified. The tool as described in this paper represents a straight forward method for propulsion performance optimization in practical maritime operations.
Keywords
Wageningen B-series; Propeller efficiency; Thrust calculator; Open water characteristics
Hrčak ID:
334113
URI
Publication date:
20.7.2025.
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