Wedged Vortex Generator Applications for Marine Vessels
Name
Kimmeth-jackk752-smme-meche-2025-thesis.pdf
Description
Thesis PDF
Size
19.82 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
0e0d744f9b5ff21acc94a23e0a1d3dcd
Author(s)
Kimmeth, Jack
Advisor(s)
Triantafyllou, Michael
Date Issued
May 2025
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis investigates the effectiveness of vortex generators (VGs) in reducing viscous drag in hydrodynamic applications. Initial experimental and computational fluid dynamics analyses identified wedge-shaped VGs as the optimal design for flow manipulation. Comparative testing of three wedge shaped VG sizes at 1.3 m/s revealed the most effective configuration, which was subsequently evaluated across speeds ranging from 1.0 m/s to 1.6 m/s. The results showed a viscous drag reduction of 7.9% at 1.4 m/s. These findings were extrapolated to a full-scale bulk carrier using appropriate geometric and dynamic scaling factors. Total resistance was partitioned using Holtrop-Mennen approximations, allowing the drag reduction to be realistically applied to operational conditions on a trans-Pacific route. Material and installation cost estimates were also developed. Finally, implications for propulsion efficiency, flow-induced vibrations, and cavitation are discussed, with recommendations for future self-propelled model testing to further explore these effects.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering
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