Fluid-Structure Interaction Analysis of Flexible Composite Propellers

Abstract

Compared to the existing metallic propellers, where deformation is negligible under any operating condition, flexible composite propellers have a relatively large deformation under heavy loading conditions. So, it is necessary to develop the design tool to predict the hydroelastic performance of flexible propeller with deformation considering fluid-structure interactions and the special operating condition, and finally design optimization tool for flexible composite propeller is required. In this work, LST-FEM method is presented to predict the deformation of flexible composite propeller. Here, FEM solver named OOFEM was adopted to carry out the structural analysis with the orthotropic linear elastic composite material. The influence of the lamination direction is also examined on deformation of the flexible composite propeller. In addition, the fluid-structural interaction analysis of the specific flexible propeller is performed and a design methodology of the flexible composite propeller is suggested. ？ 2021, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.