Hydro Power Research
Synopsis of research from March 2019 to present
Research Title : A Contra-Rotating Propeller for Optimizing Thrust
In this article, we will be focusing on the application number 201921018525 and the findings related to the optimization of thrust using a contra-rotating propeller.
As we delve into the contra-rotating theory, we observe two distinct sub-concepts emerging: the advancement of traditional theory and the initial stage of cover formation. Through our research, we have successfully formed the vortex cover, which has increased downstream velocity by four times the traditional vortex. This finding has significant implications for optimizing thrust.
One of the key observations we have made is that shifting the vortex systems interaction area leads to a significant reallocation of the maximum thrust region. The primary vortex remains controlled near the main propeller region and starts bending along the downstream. This could be due to the opposite spin of the secondary vortex destabilizing the center-rotation point of the primary vortex or the energy of the primary vortex being too high and getting space to decapitate when the effect of the secondary vortex vanishes. This results in a twisted vortex.
Our mid-region study shows that the secondary vortex is participating in two different phenomena. Along with the formation of the vortex cover, it is partially inducing the rotational flow towards the primary vortex. Sustainability of this dual phenomenon continues to occur for all energy levels of the secondary vortex.
The secondary vortex is interacting with the primary vortex near the main blade region from its time of formation and also converging it. Additionally, from the mid-region study, we find that the primary vortex pull is non-intact by the region of influence of the secondary vortex.
Our initial study suggests that the turbulence intensity mainly affects the ducted tidal turbine having a convergence angle below 10 degrees. The result also indicates that the variable 'rpm,' when considering its relationship with the thrust and torque, seems complex, and more analysis is needed. The dominating variable and their inter-dependency are yet to find out.
We hope that this information provides insight into the advancements made in the field of contra-rotating propellers and their potential for optimizing thrust. Our research is ongoing, and we look forward to sharing more updates with you in the future.
