Prediction of the Propeller Performance at Different Reynolds Number Regimes with RANS

Abstract

In this study, a Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes solver is used for prediction of the propeller performance in open-water conditions at different Reynolds numbers ranging from 104 to 107. The k−ω SST turbulence model and the γ−R˜eθt correlation-based transition model are utilised and results compared for a conventional marine propeller. First, the selection of the turbulence inlet quantities for different flow regimes is discussed. Then, an analysis of the iterative and discretisation errors is made. This work is followed by an investigation of the predicted propeller flow at variable Reynolds numbers. Finally, the propeller scale-effects and the influence of the turbulence and transition models on the performance prediction are discussed. The variation of the flow regime showed an increase in thrust and decrease in torque for increasing Reynolds number. From the comparison between the turbulence model and the transition model, different flow solutions are obtained for the Reynolds numbers between 105 and 106, affecting the scale-effects prediction.