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Keywords = subsea technology

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39 pages, 14288 KiB  
Article
Design and Performance Study of a Magnetic Flux Leakage Pig for Subsea Pipeline Defect Detection
by Fei Qu, Shengtao Chen, Meiyu Zhang, Kang Zhang and Yongjun Gong
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1462; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081462 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 252
Abstract
Subsea pipelines, operating in high-pressure and high-salinity conditions, face ongoing risks of leakage. Pipeline leaks can pollute the marine environment and, in severe cases, cause safety incidents, endangering human lives and property. Regular integrity inspections of subsea pipelines are critical to prevent corrosion-related [...] Read more.
Subsea pipelines, operating in high-pressure and high-salinity conditions, face ongoing risks of leakage. Pipeline leaks can pollute the marine environment and, in severe cases, cause safety incidents, endangering human lives and property. Regular integrity inspections of subsea pipelines are critical to prevent corrosion-related leaks. This study develops a magnetic flux leakage (MFL)-based pig for detecting corrosion in subsea pipelines. Using a three-dimensional finite element model, this study analyzes the effects of defect geometry, lift-off distance, and operating speed on MFL signals. It proposes a defect estimation method based on axial peak-to-valley values and radial peak spacing, with inversion accuracy validated against simulation results. This study establishes a theoretical and practical framework for subsea pipeline integrity management, providing an effective solution for corrosion monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical Research and Design of Subsea Pipelines)
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26 pages, 8299 KiB  
Article
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Temperature Rise Characteristics of Multi-Layer Winding Non-Metallic Armored Optoelectronic Cable
by Shanying Lin, Xihong Kuang, Yujie Zhang, Gen Li, Wenhua Li and Weiwei Shen
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1356; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071356 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
The non-metallic armored optoelectronic cable (NAOC) serves as a critical component in deep-sea scientific winch systems. Due to its low density and excellent corrosion resistance, it has been widely adopted in marine exploration. However, as the operational water depth increases, the NAOC is [...] Read more.
The non-metallic armored optoelectronic cable (NAOC) serves as a critical component in deep-sea scientific winch systems. Due to its low density and excellent corrosion resistance, it has been widely adopted in marine exploration. However, as the operational water depth increases, the NAOC is subjected to multi-layer winding on the drum, resulting in a cumulative temperature rise that can severely impair insulation performance and compromise the safety of deep-sea operations. To address this issue, this paper conducts temperature rise experiments on NAOCs using a distributed temperature sensing test rig to investigate the effects of the number of winding layers and current amplitude on their temperature rise characteristics. Based on the experimental results, an electromagnetic thermal multi-physics field coupling simulation model is established to further examine the influence of these factors on the maximum operation time of the NAOC. Finally, a multi-variable predictive model for maximum operation time is developed, incorporating current amplitude, the number of winding layers, and ambient temperature, with a fitting accuracy of 97.92%. This research provides theoretical and technical support for ensuring the safety of deep-sea scientific operations and improving the reliability of deep-sea equipment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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21 pages, 3066 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of Combined Wind-Assisted Propulsion and Organic Rankine Cycle Systems in Ships
by Shibo Zhao, Kayvan Pazouki and Rosemary Norman
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(7), 1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13071287 - 30 Jun 2025
Viewed by 236
Abstract
With the increasingly stringent regulation of ship carbon emissions by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), improving ship energy efficiency has become a key research direction in the current shipping industry. This paper proposes and evaluates a comprehensive energy-saving solution that integrates a wind-assisted [...] Read more.
With the increasingly stringent regulation of ship carbon emissions by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), improving ship energy efficiency has become a key research direction in the current shipping industry. This paper proposes and evaluates a comprehensive energy-saving solution that integrates a wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) and an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) waste heat power generation system. By establishing an energy efficiency simulation model of a typical ocean-going cargo ship, the appropriate optimal system configuration parameters and working fluids are determined based on minimizing the total fuel consumption, and the impact of these two energy-saving technologies on fuel consumption is systematically analyzed. The simulation results show that the simultaneous use of these two energy-saving technologies can achieve the highest energy efficiency, with the maximum fuel savings of approximately 21%. This study provides a theoretical basis and engineering reference for the design of ship energy-saving systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ship Performance and Emission Prediction)
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13 pages, 1476 KiB  
Article
Development of a Fire Risk Assessment Program for Submerged Tunnels
by Suk-Min Kong, Hyo-Gyu Kim, Ho-Hyeong Lee and Seong-Won Lee
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6798; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126798 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 346
Abstract
Submerged tunnels are an innovative infrastructure solution for connecting roads and railways, especially in areas where conventional bridge or overland tunnel construction is limited by deep waterways, narrow straits, or dense urban development. In such regions, submerged tunnels offer an efficient and less [...] Read more.
Submerged tunnels are an innovative infrastructure solution for connecting roads and railways, especially in areas where conventional bridge or overland tunnel construction is limited by deep waterways, narrow straits, or dense urban development. In such regions, submerged tunnels offer an efficient and less intrusive alternative that overcomes geographical constraints. However, unlike conventional ground-level or subsea tunnels, submerged tunnels have unique structural and environmental characteristics, which necessitate the development of a dedicated evaluation system for responding to fire and other disasters. In this study, a quantitative fire risk assessment program (SFT_QRA) was developed by reflecting the specific characteristics of submerged tunnels. The program was applied to both road and railway tunnels to obtain evaluation results. First, to more realistically reflect the fire risk within submerged tunnels, the latest statistical data were used to update fire occurrence probabilities and the proportion of vulnerable users. In addition, the optimal smoke control mode for structural stop zones in ultra-long tunnels was analyzed to derive strategies for establishing a safe evacuation environment. Second, an Excel VBA-based assessment program was developed to improve user convenience and was structured to enable fire analysis and evacuation simulations. Third, in order to verify the accuracy and reliability of the developed program, a comparative analysis was conducted against commercial quantitative risk assessment programs. As a result, the total risk error rate was 0.4% for road tunnels and within 5.0% for railway tunnels, showing similar levels of results. This study advances quantitative risk assessment methods by incorporating the unique features of submerged tunnels and implementing them in a validated program. Through this approach, it presents a practical solution that can contribute to the advancement of tunnel fire safety technologies and the overall enhancement of tunnel safety. Full article
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17 pages, 3584 KiB  
Article
Task Allocation and Path Planning Method for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles
by Feng Liu, Wei Xu, Zhiwen Feng, Changdong Yu, Xiao Liang, Qun Su and Jian Gao
Drones 2025, 9(6), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9060411 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 500
Abstract
Cooperative operations of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) have extensive applications in fields such as marine exploration, ecological observation, and subsea security. Path planning, as a key technology for UUV autonomous navigation, is crucial for enhancing the adaptability and mission execution efficiency of UUVs [...] Read more.
Cooperative operations of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) have extensive applications in fields such as marine exploration, ecological observation, and subsea security. Path planning, as a key technology for UUV autonomous navigation, is crucial for enhancing the adaptability and mission execution efficiency of UUVs in complicated marine environments. However, existing methods still have significant room for improvement in handling obstacles, multi-task coordination, and other complex problems. In order to overcome these issues, we put forward a task allocation and path planning method for UUVs. First, we introduce a task allocation mechanism based on an Improved Grey Wolf Algorithm (IGWA). This mechanism comprehensively considers factors such as target value, distance, and UUV capability constraints to achieve efficient and reasonable task allocation among UUVs. To enhance the search efficiency and accuracy of task allocation, a Circle chaotic mapping strategy is incorporated into the traditional GWA to improve population diversity. Additionally, a differential evolution mechanism is integrated to enhance local search capabilities, effectively mitigating premature convergence issues. Second, an improved RRT* algorithm termed GR-RRT* is employed for UUV path planning. By designing a guidance strategy, the sampling probability near target points follows a two-dimensional Gaussian distribution, ensuring obstacle avoidance safety while reducing redundant sampling and improving planning efficiency. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed task allocation mechanism and improved path planning algorithm exhibit significant advantages in task completion rate and path optimization efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Intelligent Coordination Control for Autonomous UUVs)
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19 pages, 5578 KiB  
Article
Array Design and Transmitter Coils Selection for Underwater Wireless Power Transfer System
by Hanxi Xu, Wenhua Li, Zhongjiu Zheng and Yunhe Wang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 6368; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15116368 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 442
Abstract
This paper proposes a method for array design and optimal transmitting coil selection of underwater wireless power transfer systems. This method is divided into three steps. Firstly, by analyzing the influence of different ratio side lengths of the transmitting coil and receiving coil [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a method for array design and optimal transmitting coil selection of underwater wireless power transfer systems. This method is divided into three steps. Firstly, by analyzing the influence of different ratio side lengths of the transmitting coil and receiving coil on mutual inductance, the optimal ratio side length coil is selected. Secondly, by analyzing the relative size of the reflection impedance of the power supply coil and its surrounding coils, the optimal coil activation criterion is derived. Finally, by estimating the position of the receiving coil without communication, the switching of the power supply coil is realized. According to the proposed method, it was verified on the experimental platform. Under a rated power of 300 W with a load resistance of 20 Ω, the system maintains efficiency ≥ 80% even under horizontal offsets up to 150 mm (75% of the transmitting coil side length) and two-dimensional offsets up to 200 mm (100% of the transmitting coil side length). Full article
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23 pages, 5875 KiB  
Article
The Numerical Analysis of Hydrodynamic Response and Structural Stability of an Eccentric Conical Floating Structure
by Fei Qu, Shengtao Chen and Kang Zhang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(6), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13061032 - 24 May 2025
Viewed by 488
Abstract
This study examines the hydrodynamic response and structural stability of an eccentric conical floating structure, a return capsule for manned space missions, to ensure safe water landings. Using numerical simulations and experiments, we evaluated how center-of-mass offsets, displacement volume control, and environmental factors, [...] Read more.
This study examines the hydrodynamic response and structural stability of an eccentric conical floating structure, a return capsule for manned space missions, to ensure safe water landings. Using numerical simulations and experiments, we evaluated how center-of-mass offsets, displacement volume control, and environmental factors, including waves, currents, and wind, affect capsule stability. In still water, lateral center-of-mass offsets strongly affect stability through nonlinear restoring moments, whereas foam-based displacement control reduces motion amplitude and tilt angle. In dynamic sea conditions, wave parameters dominate motion, with surge displacement and pitch angle varying by wavelength and sea state. At higher sea states, nonlinear phenomena, including subharmonic resonance, amplify pitch angle extrema, compromising safety margins. This research offers key insights for evaluating and improving return capsule safety, highlighting the importance of complex multi-physics interactions in marine environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Numerical Analysis and Modeling of Floating Structures)
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22 pages, 7907 KiB  
Article
Real-Time Fault Diagnosis of Mooring Chain Jack Hydraulic System Based on Multi-Scale Feature Fusion Under Diverse Operating Conditions
by Yujia Liu, Wenhua Li, Haoran Ye, Shanying Lin and Lei Hong
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(4), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13040783 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 500
Abstract
The condition monitoring of mooring equipment is an important engineering reliability issue during the operation of a floating production storage and offloading unit (FPSO). The chain jack (CJ) is the key equipment for powering the mooring chain in a spread mooring system. Under [...] Read more.
The condition monitoring of mooring equipment is an important engineering reliability issue during the operation of a floating production storage and offloading unit (FPSO). The chain jack (CJ) is the key equipment for powering the mooring chain in a spread mooring system. Under complex and dynamic marine operating conditions, different severity faults in the CJ hydraulic system display distinct time-scale characteristics. Hence, this paper proposes a real-time fault diagnosis method of the CJ hydraulic system based on multi-scale feature fusion. Firstly, the model incorporates a convolutional neural network (CNN) layer to extract localized spatial features from multivariate time-series data, effectively identifying fault patterns over the associated short intervals. Subsequently, the bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) layer is introduced to construct a dynamic temporal model to comprehensively capture the evolution of the fault severity. Finally, a multi-scale global attention mechanism (GAM) emphasizes persistent fault behaviors across time scales, dynamically prioritizing relevant features to improve diagnostic accuracy and model interpretability. The study results indicate that the proposed model’s accuracy improves by 7.36% over the CNN-GAM for 11 failure modes, up to 99.34%. This study contributes to the safe operation of an FPSO by guiding monitoring CJ operations under different load conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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17 pages, 5035 KiB  
Article
A Novel Approach to Identify Technological Innovation Opportunities Using Patent Mining for Floating Liquefied Natural Gas Systems
by Yu Lin, Haowen Zheng, Jackson Jinhong Mi and Yuanrui Li
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(3), 567; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13030567 - 14 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 941
Abstract
The floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) system is an offshore facility that floats above a natural gas field, directly liquefying natural gas without the need for subsea pipelines. In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring technological innovations for FLNG systems. [...] Read more.
The floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) system is an offshore facility that floats above a natural gas field, directly liquefying natural gas without the need for subsea pipelines. In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring technological innovations for FLNG systems. As such, advancements could lead to breakthroughs in optimizing layout and operations within the limited space of these platforms. To address this, we first apply a patent mining method to cluster FLNG-related patent texts, identifying the key technological components. We then conduct a morphological analysis to pinpoint potential technological opportunities. In our case study, we identify seven such opportunities, which include a combination of plate-fin heat exchangers, horizontal LNG storage tanks, flexible flowlines, and tail loading methods. These findings offer valuable insights and directions for the future development of FLNG systems. Full article
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33 pages, 12739 KiB  
Article
An Equivalent Magnetic-Circuit-Modeling Approach for Analysis of Conical Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
by Fengrui Cui, Junquan Chen, Pengfei Hu, Xingyu Wu and Fangxu Sun
Sensors 2025, 25(6), 1788; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25061788 - 13 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 623
Abstract
Shaftless propulsion technology delivers high efficiency and low noise for subsea installations and marine vessels. To enhance thrust performance, the streamlined aft-body contour imposes stringent demands on geometric compatibility between the rim-driven thruster (RDT) motor and hull. This necessitates advanced electromagnetic characterization of [...] Read more.
Shaftless propulsion technology delivers high efficiency and low noise for subsea installations and marine vessels. To enhance thrust performance, the streamlined aft-body contour imposes stringent demands on geometric compatibility between the rim-driven thruster (RDT) motor and hull. This necessitates advanced electromagnetic characterization of conical motors. This paper proposes an equivalent magnetic circuit model (EMCM) that accounts for end effects and magnetic saturation in both the stator and rotor cores for the magnetic field analysis of conical permanent magnet synchronous motor (CPMSM). A 3D EMCM is developed by decomposing the air-gap flux into radial/axial/tangential components. End-field nonlinearities are addressed via lumped-parameter network modeling. Innovatively, a trapezoidal expanded magnet layout and magnet-pole-trimming technology are adopted to ensure sinusoidal flux distribution. Finally, a 10.5 kW prototype with a conical angle of 6.7 degrees is designed using the EMCM and verified through a finite-element analysis (FEA) and experiments. This research provides a theoretical framework for the rapid electromagnetic analysis of the CPMSM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electronic Sensors)
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10 pages, 7511 KiB  
Article
A Study on Laser-Assisted Cylindrical Grinding of Superhard Diamond Composite (DSiC) Materials: Surface Integrity and Efficiency
by Masih Paknejad, Bahman Azarhoushang, Robert Bösinger and Esmaeil Ghadiri Zahrani
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9020056 - 11 Feb 2025
Viewed by 3189
Abstract
A novel laser-assisted cylindrical grinding process has been developed to enhance the machining of silicon-carbide-bonded diamond composites (DSiCs), critical for improving the performance and durability of components in subsea pump applications. DSiCs, containing approximately 50% diamond by volume, exhibit excellent mechanical and thermal [...] Read more.
A novel laser-assisted cylindrical grinding process has been developed to enhance the machining of silicon-carbide-bonded diamond composites (DSiCs), critical for improving the performance and durability of components in subsea pump applications. DSiCs, containing approximately 50% diamond by volume, exhibit excellent mechanical and thermal properties. The conventional grinding of these superhard materials presents challenges such as high grinding forces, elevated temperatures, and significant tool wear. To overcome these difficulties, a laser-assisted cylindrical grinding process has been developed, utilizing ultra-short-pulse laser radiation to induce material ablation with controlled structural damages, thereby reducing grinding forces, temperatures, and tool wear. This research investigates the influence of grinding wheel specifications and grinding parameters on surface quality and tool life. The results indicate modest enhancements in surface integrity, achieving damage-free ground surfaces, and notable improvements in grinding ratio (G-ratio) by up to 247% and actual removal depth by up to 99% compared to conventional grinding. The laser-assisted cylindrical grinding process using vitrified-bonded diamond wheels holds significant promise for advancing subsea pump technology by enabling the use of DSiCs and achieving plateau ground surfaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Laser-Assisted Manufacturing Techniques)
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22 pages, 7828 KiB  
Review
The Prediction Method and Application of Off-Road Mobility for Ground Vehicles: A Review
by Chen Hua, Wencheng Zhang, Hanghao Fu, Yuhao Zhang, Biao Yu, Chunmao Jiang, Yuliang Wei, Ziyu Chen and Xinkai Kuang
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16010047 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1094
Abstract
With the rapid advancement of technologies related to unmanned ground systems, ground vehicles are being widely deployed across various domains. However, when operating in complex, soft terrain environments, the low bearing capacity of such terrains poses a significant challenge to vehicle mobility. This [...] Read more.
With the rapid advancement of technologies related to unmanned ground systems, ground vehicles are being widely deployed across various domains. However, when operating in complex, soft terrain environments, the low bearing capacity of such terrains poses a significant challenge to vehicle mobility. This paper presents a comprehensive review of mobility prediction methods for ground vehicles in off-road environments. We begin by discussing the concept of vehicle mobility, followed by a systematic and thorough summary of the primary prediction methods, including empirical, semi-empirical, numerical simulation, and machine learning approaches. The strengths and weaknesses of these methods are compared and analyzed in detail. Subsequently, we explore the application scenarios of mobility prediction in military operations, subsea work, planetary exploration, and agricultural activities. Finally, we address several existing challenges in current mobility prediction methods and propose exploratory research directions focusing on key technologies and applications, such as real-time mobility prediction, terrain perception, path planning on deformable terrain, and autonomous mobility prediction for unmanned systems. These insights aim to provide valuable reference points for the future development of vehicle mobility prediction methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamics, Control and Simulation of Electrified Vehicles)
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20 pages, 6411 KiB  
Article
Subsea Long-Duration Energy Storage for Integration with Offshore Wind Farms
by Charise Cutajar, Tonio Sant, Luke Aquilina, Daniel Buhagiar and Daniel Baldacchino
Energies 2024, 17(24), 6405; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17246405 - 19 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 914
Abstract
Long-duration energy storage systems are becoming a vital means for decarbonizing the global economy. However, with floating wind farms being commissioned farther offshore, the need to co-locate energy storage with the energy harnessing units is becoming more essential. This paper presents a transient [...] Read more.
Long-duration energy storage systems are becoming a vital means for decarbonizing the global economy. However, with floating wind farms being commissioned farther offshore, the need to co-locate energy storage with the energy harnessing units is becoming more essential. This paper presents a transient thermal analysis of the charging process of a subsea open-cycle hydro-pneumatic energy storage system. The proposed system is designed for integration with floating wind turbines in deep water sites. Situating the system subsea presents unique opportunities for integration with offshore wind plants through the exploitation of well-known subsea pipeline technology and the surrounding seawater environment, which acts as a natural heat sink/source. The results obtained from numerical modeling in Python© Version 3.7.4 present the variation in various operating parameters with time. The outcomes reveal that the proposed system is able to achieve a work ratio and an energy storage capacity ratio of up to 0.80 and 0.95, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed open-cycle system is predicted to boost the energy storage density by a factor ranging between 2.00 and 8.10 when compared to the energy storage density of conventional closed-cycle units. Namely, the energy storage density of the long-duration energy storage can reach up to 16.20 kWh/m3 when operated in an open-cycle configuration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A3: Wind, Wave and Tidal Energy)
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21 pages, 9209 KiB  
Article
Effect of Propeller Face Camber Ratio on the Reduction of Fuel Consumption
by Mina Tadros, Zehao Sun and Weichao Shi
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2225; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122225 - 4 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1127
Abstract
This paper presents the effect of the face camber ratio (FCR) on propeller performance, cavitation, and fuel consumption of a bulk carrier in calm water. First, using a developed propeller optimization model coupling a ship performance prediction tool (NavCad) and a nonlinear optimizer [...] Read more.
This paper presents the effect of the face camber ratio (FCR) on propeller performance, cavitation, and fuel consumption of a bulk carrier in calm water. First, using a developed propeller optimization model coupling a ship performance prediction tool (NavCad) and a nonlinear optimizer in MATLAB, an optimized propeller design at the optimal engine operating point with minimum fuel consumption is selected. This optimized propeller demonstrates superior fuel efficiency compared to the one selected by using the traditional selection methods that prioritize only higher propeller efficiency. Afterward, the FCR is applied to the propeller geometry to evaluate the effect on propeller performance. The open water curves of propellers with different FCRs ranging from 0% to 1.5% are computed based on empirical formulas and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Between the two techniques, a good agreement is noted in verifying the predictions. Then, the open water curves from CFD models are implemented into NavCad to evaluate the overall hydrodynamic performance of the propeller at the design point in terms of efficiency, quantify reductions in fuel consumption, and analyze changes in cavitation and noise criteria. The computed results show a reduction in fuel consumption by 3% with a higher FCR. This work offers a preliminary evaluation of propeller performance-based FCR and shows its benefits. This technique offers a promising solution for improving the energy efficiency of the ship and lowering the level of fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Innovative Solutions for Ship Energy Efficiency)
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13 pages, 3036 KiB  
Article
On the Hydrodynamic and Structural Performance of Thermoplastic Composite Ship Propellers Produced by Additive Manufacturing Method
by Erkin Altunsaray, Serkan Turkmen, Ayberk Sözen, Alperen Doğru, Pengfei Liu, Akile Neşe Halilbeşe and Gökdeniz Neşer
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2024, 12(12), 2206; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse12122206 - 2 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1621
Abstract
In the marine industry, the search for sustainable methods, materials, and processes, from the product’s design to its end-of-life stages, is a necessity for combating the negative consequences of climate change. In this context, the lightening of products is essential in reducing their [...] Read more.
In the marine industry, the search for sustainable methods, materials, and processes, from the product’s design to its end-of-life stages, is a necessity for combating the negative consequences of climate change. In this context, the lightening of products is essential in reducing their environmental impact throughout their life. In addition to lightening through design, lightweight materials, especially plastic-based composites, will need to be used in new and creative ways. The material extrusion technique, one of the additive manufacturing methods, is becoming more widespread day by day, especially in the production of objects with complex forms. This prevalence has not yet been reflected in the marine industry. In this study, the performances of plastic composite propellers produced by the material extrusion technique is investigated and discussed comparatively with the help of both hydrodynamic and structural tests carried out in a cavitation tunnel and mechanical laboratory. The cavitation tunnel test and numerical simulations were conducted at a range of advance coefficients (J) from 0.3 to 0.9. The shaft rate was kept at 16 rps. The thrust and torque data were obtained using the tunnel dynamometer. Digital pictures were taken to obtain structural deformation and cavitation dynamics. The structural performance of the propellers shows that an aluminum propeller is the most rigid, while a short carbon fiber composite propeller is the most flexible. Continuous carbon fiber composite has high strength and stiffness, while continuous glass fiber composite is more cost-effective. In terms of the hydrodynamic performance of the propellers, flexibility reduces the loading on the blade, which can result in thrust and torque reduction. Overall, the efficiency of the composite propellers was similar and less than that of the rigid aluminum propeller. In terms of weight, the composite carbon propeller containing continuous fiber, which is half the weight of the metal propeller, is considered as an alternative to metal in production. These propellers were produced from a unique composite consisting of polyamide, one of the thermoplastics that is a sustainable composite material, and glass and carbon fiber as reinforcements. The findings showed that the manufacturing method and the new composites can be highly successful for producing ship components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Technology: Latest Advancements and Prospects)
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