Parametric Analysis of Centrifugal UUV Thrusters

This paper investigates the performance sensitivity of centrifugal-type thrusters on various geometric parameters of the physical design. Notably, four aspects of the casing are adjusted while only two aspects of the impeller are adjusted to explore their relative effects on the resulting performance metrics. Steady-state computational fluid dynamics (CFD) coupled with a multiple reference frame (MRF) approach is the analysis method of choice. Efficiency improvements of around justify the seemingly simplistic approach without compromising thrust or power generation. Additional parameters and new methodologies are briefly discussed for future consideration.