Hydrodynamic Interaction Research In the Dynamic Positioning System

Based on model test of deep-sea semi submersible platform, this paper elaborates on the hydrodynamic interaction characteristics of Dynamic Positioning (DP) thruster system, including the thruster-thruster interaction caused by the propeller race from one thruster on neighboring thrusters and the thruster-hull interaction caused by the Coanda effort. The hydrodynamic interaction of thruster system may lead to significant thrust reduction if not being taken into consideration. The research results are illustrated with a set of hydrodynamic curves, comparing the differences between in the current flow and in the calm water. Finally, some feasible ways to reduce interaction so as to improve capability of Dynamic Positioning System (DPS) are presented. Model scale equals 1:50.