Numerical Simulations of Propulsion Performance of Hull–Propeller–Rudder–Coupled System with Propeller Boss Cap Fins (PBCFs)

Ship propulsion performance is important for navigating. This study aims to enhance the propulsion performance of a 9500 DWT ship by integrating PBCFs into the hull–rudder–propeller–coupled system. A total of 27 PBCF models with different fin installation angles, radius ratio, and tilt angles are designed in the study. The computational fluid dynamics method is employed and a propeller open-water test is also performed to optimize the PBCF design, which is integrated into different coupled systems. The numerical results show that the PBCFs exhibit differential enhancements of propeller performance across system configurations with their efficiency changing from 4.05% to 2.87%. Moreover, the reliability of ship self-propulsion simulation is mutually validated through the combined BF (body force) and MRF (multi-reference frame) methods. Then, simulations were conducted using these two methods for the self-propulsion of a 9500 DWT ship at three different speeds. Finally, the results from using the MRF method show that the incorporation of PBCFs can reduce delivered power to propeller by 1.32% at different Fr.