Numerical Predictions of a Model Scale Propeller in Uniform and Oblique Flow

The numerical predictions of a model scale propeller working in uniform and oblique flow are presented. Both non-cavitating and cavitating flow conditions are numerically investigated using homogeneous (mixture) model. Two previously calibrated mass transfer models are alternatively used to model the mass transfer rate due to cavitation. The turbulence effect is modelled using the Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) approach. The simulations are performed using an open source solver. The numerical results are compared with the available experimental data. For a quantitative comparison the propeller thrust is considered, while for a qualitative comparison, snapshots of cavitation patterns are shown. From the overall results it seems that, with the current simulation approach it is possible to predict with a reasonable accuracy the propeller performances. Nevertheless, for detailed reproduction of complex cavitation phenomena, such as bubble cavitation for instance, a more sophisticated modelling approach is probably required.