Q10 (16 Marks) Ship Types & Design 🔥 Repeated 2x in exams
SC&S • Written Exam

(a) Describe the effect of cavitations on the propeller blades (6)

(b) The following data are available from the hydrostatic curves of a vessel.

Draught (m)

KB (m)

KM (m)

I (m^4)

4.9

2.49

10.73

65250

5.2

2.61

10.79

68868

Calculate the TPC at a draught of 5.05m. (10)

Appeared In: Aug 2025Mar 2025

Verified Model Answer (Text Solution)

Structured for DG Shipping MEO Class II examination scoring criteria.

Exam Ready
Part (a)

Effect of cavitation on propeller blades:

Erosion:

  • Cavitation causes the formation and collapse of vapor bubbles on the propeller blade surface.
  • The collapse of these bubbles produces high-pressure shockwaves and microjets that erode the blade material, leading to surface pitting and progressive damage.

Vibration:

  • Uneven cavitation across the blades leads to imbalanced forces, causing vibrations in the propeller and the ship.
  • These vibrations can reduce the comfort of passengers and crew and stress the ship's structural components.

Noise:

  • The collapse of vapor bubbles generates loud noise, which can interfere with onboard communication and underwater sonar systems.
  • This noise is a significant concern for naval vessels and marine life.

Reduced Performance:

  • Cavitation reduces the efficiency of the propeller by causing loss of thrust and torque.
  • The presence of cavitation decreases the propeller’s ability to convert rotational energy into forward motion, lowering the ship's speed and increasing fuel consumption.
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