This thesis presents a hydrodynamic analysis of thrust and torque for a ship propeller, using the case of the Pearl 63 yacht equipped with two Volvo Penta IPS 1350 engines (2 x 735 kW), where each engine drives its own propeller. The
primary objective of the study is to compare theoretical calculations based on the Wageningen B-series methodology with numerical results obtained through CFD simulations in SolidWorks Flow Simulation, which solves the Navier–Stokes
equations for incompressible flow using the finite volume method. The simulation was performed at a cruising speed of 25 knots and a constant propeller rotational speed, with the propeller geometry modeled according to standard B-series dimensions (diameter, pitch ratio, blade number, and profile
shape). The analysis includes the calculation of thrust, torque, and the corresponding thrust and torque coefficients (KT , KQ) to verify consistency with reference Wageningen data. In addition to the open-water configuration, the study
also examines the propeller operating within a duct, enabling an assessment of the influence of flow-guiding devices on hydrodynamic efficiency and propulsion characteristics. The comparative results are presented in graphs and tables, providing insights into the impact of geometric and operational parameters on propeller performance. This work combines theoretical approaches with numerical simulations and contributes to the optimization of marine propulsion systems through the application of CFD methods.
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