A Design by Optimization of Tip Loaded Propellers

A design by optimization of tip-loaded propellers (CLT) is proposed and implemented. The approach include a parametric description of the propeller, an in-house developed Boundary Element Method (BEM) to evaluate the performances of the propellers and an optimization algorithm based on modeFRONTIER environment to drive the design process. Results for the parent propeller, in terms of both open water performances and unsteady cavitation, were validated via available experimental measurements and RANS calculations. The proposed optimized geometries are finally checked by means of dedicated RANS calculations to assess the reliability of the proposed design approach.