Fluid-structure interaction calculation method for composite propeller based on BEM−FEM

Objective This study seeks to predict the hydrodynamic properties of composite propellers and analyze their fluid-structure interaction characteristics.

Methods Combined with the boundary element method (BEM) and finite element method (FEM), a composite propeller fluid-structure interaction calculation method is established. The surface pressure and hydrodynamic force of the composite propeller blade are calculated by BEM, and the calculated surface pressure of the propeller is transferred to a finite element structure model. The displacement and stress distribution of the composite propeller under load are then predicted by FEM, and the deformation is transferred to the hydraulic force calculation of the propeller BEM so as to realize two-way fluid-structure interaction calculation. The feasibility of this method is verified by calculating a 5471 propeller and comparing it with the experimental values in the literature, then comparing and analyzing the hydrodynamic performance of the 5471 composite propeller and a rigid propeller.

Results  The results show that the proposed method can realize the hydrodynamic performance analysis of composite propellers, which has the advantages of simple implementation, high calculation efficiency and high accuracy.

Conclusion The findings of this study can provide reliable data support for the adaptive design of composite propellers and improve their design efficiency.