Preliminary Study on the Propeller and Engine Performance Variation with Wind Propulsion Technologies

Wind Propulsion Systems (WPS) for commercial ships are vital to achieving the IMO targets on energy efficiency and GHG emissions. Most WPS will operate in a hybrid mode alongside actual main propulsion units. This will affect the propeller and engine operating conditions and thus, their performance. The present paper discusses a preliminary assessment of commercial ship propellers and engine performance variation as a function of the wind power installed for two propeller plant types (Fixed Pitch Propeller, FPP, and Controllable Pitch Propeller, CPP) at constant speed operational mode. The contribution is based on empirical and analytical methods requiring minimal input data. It aims to provide general trends and contribute basic knowledge on this matter. A cost model is included for a cost-benefit assessment of both propeller types. This leads to advice on which systems to install as a function of WPS installation size.