The Numerical Study for the Prediction of Available Net Thrust on an Arctic Vessel

Abstract As the arctic area continues to decrease due to the global warming, the interest in new Northern-sea routes in shipping is increasing inversely. In general, the speed or power of a vessel in normal sea condition can be reliably estimated by applying the verified methods for a long time. However, it is still difficult for an arctic vessel to predict ship’s performance in ice sea conditions. In this study, we investgated the net thrust of the ice breaking vessel based on the CFD simulation. It is important information to predict the reachable ship speed of target arctic vessel in ice condition. The POD propulsion system is generally applied to the ice breaking vessel, and an appendage such as skeg is also attached. In this study, various factors affecting to the net thrust were examined. The geometrical design modification such as pitch ratio or expanded area ratio of the propeller on the POD propulsion system was mainly analyzed. And the position or number of skeg were also examined for the net thrust of the ice breaking vessel. The net thrust of the ice breaking vessel was numerically simulated in model scale, then compared to that from model test in specified condition. In addition, studies related to numerical method were also conducted. In particular, the consideration of the numerical treatment of a propeller rotation were discussed.