Influence Analysis of Podded Propulsors Installation Position Based on Self Propulsion Simulation

The propulsion efficiency of cruise ship is an important indicator to measure the propulsion performance and reliability of cruise ship. This article is based on the self propulsion simulation method of the cruise ship propelled by podded propulsors in still water conditions. By analyzing the layout position of the podded propulsors on the cruise ship, the thrust spacing between the two podded propulsors, and the rotation direction of the propeller, the propulsion efficiency values of the cruise ship under fixed self propulsion points are compared, and optimization of the cruise ship’s propulsion efficiency is achieved. Firstly, the cruise ship self propulsion simulation model is built based on STAR-CCM+ simulation software. Then, a single parameter influence analysis is conducted on the layout position, thrust spacing, and propeller rotation direction of the cruise ship’s podded propulsors at the self propulsion point. Based on the flow field analysis results, the propulsion efficiency is explained and optimized. The research results show that the podded propulsor is in its initial position and the propeller rotates inward, resulting in the highest propulsion efficiency.