Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of distributed propulsion systems used on inland and coastal navigation in shallow water. Five layouts were assessed by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The hull/propulsion layout cases have been analyzed for discrete flow speed values in the range 0–6 m/s. All cases have been examined under restricted draft conditions in shallow water with a minimum of 0.3 m under keel clearance (UKC) and under unrestricted draft conditions in deep water. The results show that distributed propulsion consisting of 6 or 8 (in some cases, even more) units produces noticeable higher thrust effects in shallow water than the traditional layout. Under restricted conditions, the thrust increase between two distributed layouts with different numbers of propulsors is higher, in contrast to deep water, where differences in performance are not so significant.
Highlights
A long-standing problem of inland waterways in Europe is the existence of bottlenecks related to the provision of the required navigation parameters
The results show that distributed propulsion consisting of 6 or 8 units produces noticeable higher thrust effects in shallow water than the traditional layout
This study describes an investigation process aimed at finding an efficient way to propel inland vessels for navigation at restricted draft conditions
Summary
A long-standing problem of inland waterways in Europe is the existence of bottlenecks related to the provision of the required navigation parameters. Long-term forecasts of the impact of climate change [2,3] assume a further deterioration of the situation, which is mainly related to the phenomenon of drought. This problem directly and negatively affects the use of inland waterway transport. This limits the navigation period during the year. This has a direct impact on the economics of operating shipping companies [4]. Another negative is the lower attractiveness, stability, and usability of the transport mode compared to others
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