PREDICTED FUEL-SAVINGS FOR A FLETTNER ROTOR ASSISTED TANKER USING COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS

This paper presents a case study of the effectiveness of Flettner rotors as a wind-assist system for tanker hull forms with particular focus on the aerodynamic modelling of the devices. It summarises a series of computation fluid dynamics simulations carried out to evaluate the impact of parametric changes in Flettner rotor design, including the impact of multiple rotors operating in combination, and the influence of the ship induced flow field. The results of these simulations have been applied within a velocity performance prediction approach to estimate reductions in thrust required from the propeller, and hence changes in engine power and fuel consumption in realistic operations. The analysis highlights Flettner rotors as a means of providing significant levels of power assistance dependent upon true wind speed, heading and ship speed.