The impact of biofouling on the propeller performance

Abstract

Maritime transport industry is facing more and more strict rules regarding the ship emissions. Optimization of maintenance schedule represents an important operational measure, but lack of information related to the potential benefits of the application of this measure represents an important barrier in its application. Consequently, the assessment of the impact of biofouling on ship performance is very valuable. Within the analysis of the impact of biofouling on the ship performance, the effect of the propeller surface condition is frequently neglected. In this paper, the impact of biofouling on the propeller performance in open water condition is analysed using CFD approach, as well as propeller performance prediction method for fouled surfaces on the example of three propellers. The applicability of propeller performance prediction method, which enables rapid and accurate assessment of the impact of biofouling on the propeller performance is demonstrated. Thus, a practical approach that can be used in the optimization of maintenance schedule is presented. Also, this study has indicated the importance of propeller surface condition on the propeller performance in open water condition. Finally, a detail analysis of the flow around fouled propeller in open water condition is provided.