Hydrodynamics of the Interceptor Analysis Via Both Ultrareduced Model Test and Dynamic Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation

Abstract

This work investigates the hydrodynamic effects of introducing interceptors on fast vessels. Interceptors are vertical flat blades installed at the bottom of the stern vessel. They cause changes in pressure magnitudes around the vessel bottom and especially at the end of the hull where they are located. The pressure variations have an effect on resistance, draft height, and lifting forces which may result in a better control of trim. This work uses a combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and ultrareduced experimental tests. The investigation applies the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations to model the flow around the ultrareduced model with interceptors with different heights. Our model is analyzed based on a finite-volume method using dynamic mesh. The boat motion is only with two degrees-of-freedom. The results show that the interceptor causes an intense pressure gradient, decreasing the wet surface of the vessel and, quite surprisingly, the resistance. At last, this paper shows that, within a range, a better trim control is possible. The height of the interceptor has an important effect on interceptor efficiency, and it should be especially selected according to the length of the vessel and boundary layer thickness at the transom. The ultrareduced model tests were performed in the Current Channel of the Laboratory of Waves and Current of COPPE/UFRJ (LOC in Portuguese acronym).