Analysis, Fabrication, and Testing of a Composite Bladed Propeller for a Naval Academy Yard Patrol (YP) Craft
Abstract
The U.S. Navy, and much of the maritime industry, uses nickel-aluminum-bronze (NAB) as the primary material for propeller construction. This is done for many reasons, including its anti-biofouling characteristics, high stiffness, and low corrosion potential. However, NAB is a cathodic metal. While it experiences little corrosion itself, its presence leads to galvanic corrosion of the surrounding hull steel. The Navy has considered the feasibility of a composite bladed propeller design, but several variables need investigation. The goal of this Trident project was to design, build and test the Navy's first composite propeller. The detailed objectives of the research were to: evaluate a hub design; perform a structural design of a Yard Patrol (YP) craft composite bladed propeller; and finally, build and test a full-scale propeller using the composite materials. As the general concept used composite blades attached to a NAB hub, the first step was to develop a design for the hub-blade interaction. Afterwards, the loads were predicted using computational fluid dynamics. The pressure plot was then combined with the geometry in a finite element structural analysis program to determine fiber orientation and strength characteristics. A full-scale mold plug was created using stereolithography. Finally, the carbon/epoxy blades were laid up in this mold. The YP craft was selected as the test platform as it: 1) has two propellers (in the event of failure); and 2) is used for many hours, often in harsh conditions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 06, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA436648
Entities
People
- Christopher D. Wozniak
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy