Influence of geometric variations and stacking sequencing of a composite marine propeller

Continuous striving efforts have been demonstrated in the recent past by naval architects and propeller designers to comprehend the performance of self-adaptive propellers, especially composites. The traditional materials such as Nickel Aluminum Bronze (NAB), Manganese Bronze (MgBr), steel, Aluminium (AL) are currently employed as propeller materials. However, alternate materials are being incorporated by replacing them as they possess, such as heavy, undesirable cavitation, high vibration, and corrosion properties that potential affects the efficiency and increase fuel demand. Research studies regarding the material selection for propeller are underway to identify an alternative material that enhances the propeller's efficiency in operating conditions. One such material that has been identified as a material that can replace conventional metals and alloys is composite material. However, not many studies were carried out to understand the performance of composite propellers and their impact on decarbonisation activities. The present study aims to investigate the effect of geometric variations and wake inflow using an Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) based analysis. Three different materials were chosen for the analysis: AL, Carbon Fibre, and Glass Fibre. The validation studies that were carried out experimentally serve to authenticate the use of the FSI algorithm on the basis of comparison with simulations using towing tank (TT) tests. The blade profile variation that is caused by hydroelasticity has an effect on the performance of the composite propeller, which outperforms the conventional materials. The study further extended to identify the influence of ply stacking and wake profile to expand the horizon of research aiming to implement on commercial vessels. •Numerical based performance estimation using two way FSI coupling.•Understand the influence of rake and skew angle on efficacy.•An experimental investigation performed to validate numerical results.•Propeller performances quantified with various stacking sequences and wake conditions.