Propulsive machinery selection for repowering of an old patrol craft – A case study

This paper presents a case study of repowering peculiarities in relation to an old vessel. The vessel selected for study was designed for cruising speed of 15 knots. Over the years of operation the vessel’s cruising speed reduced to about 8 knots. So, the owner wanted to repower it to have a fresh tenure of life and the work was given to a shipyard. But after replacement of old two engines by new engines of same power with different model, the performance of the vessel was not satisfactory. In the present paper, the problem is studied with comprehensive calculations of hydrostatic particulars and resistance of the ship. The analysis is carried out in respect of engine specifications, gear ratios, propeller design etc. and found that the operating ranges of new engines are not at par with the old engines. The new engine does not also match with old propeller. At this situation, comparative studies have determined that among all possible solutions redesign of propeller is the most suitable one and cost effective.