This part delivers non-dimensional propeller characteristics from tests of the propeller alone. In practice, the customer receives data used to judge propeller efficiency and the power needed to generate the required thrust. The output supports early propeller design decisions and provides reference data for QA checks in later self-propulsion model tests.
Maritime and offshore engineering
Still water tank tests
Get still water tank test data that supports propulsion decisions and provides a basis for sea trials and performance evaluation.
Still water tank tests are used when a documented basis is needed for propulsion decisions on full-size ships. The tests are used to predict propulsive performance at full scale and support decisions on the main engine, gearbox and propeller. Open-water data also provides an important reference for quality assurance in subsequent self-propulsion model tests. The service is part of our expertise area Maritime and offshore engineering.
Challenges
When propulsion choices are made without model test data, uncertainty affects design decisions and performance prediction.
Limited propeller data delays early decisions
Without open-water propeller data, it is difficult to assess propeller efficiency and the power required to generate the required thrust. This weakens the basis for early propeller selection decisions and reduces the reference data needed for later self-propulsion evaluation.
Unknown hull resistance weakens performance assessment
If the hull is not tested without the propeller but with appendages included, it remains unclear whether the hull design is optimal. This makes it harder to assess the effect of resistance on overall propulsive efficiency and to judge whether further optimisation work is needed.
Incomplete test input limits full-scale prediction
If open water, resistance and self-propulsion results are not assessed together, the full propulsion picture is missing. That makes it harder to predict propeller revolutions and power across vessel speeds.
Benefits
Get documented test results that support propulsion decisions, sea trial preparation and vessel performance evaluation
Support selection of propulsion components
Still water tank test results provide a documented basis for decisions on the main engine, gearbox and propeller. The data support propulsion choices in a ship-building project and provide a defined basis for those component decisions.
