Comparison of different approaches for the design and analysis of ducted propellers

Abstract

In the present paper, different approaches for the design and analysis of

ducted propellers are presented and discussed, starting from the conventional lifting line / lifting surface approach and considering more complex (and computationally demanding) panel methods and RANS solvers. Attention is posed on the more challenging case of decelerating duct configuration, and a design case is presented for a thorough analysis of the various approaches. Two different propellers geometries have been defined, and the results of the experimental campaign at towing tank and cavitation tunnel carried out on them are shown, demonstrating the capabilities and limits of the adopted approaches. Finally, general guidelines for the design of this kind of propulsor are briefly outlined.