Abstract

This thesis investigates symmetrical hydrofoils and describes the development of a test setup to determine which foils are most efficient in generating forward thrust and saving fuel during the rolling motion of a vessel. The aim of this research is to compare symmetrical hydrofoils and identify the most suitable options for the FinEShiP project.

How can the efficiency of hydrofoils in converting the rolling motion of a vessel into forward thrust be quantitatively measured and compared during this academic year? The research method used is a combination of literature review and experimental research. The development of the test setup is based on a literature review that analyzes existing test setups and their applications. The symmetrical hydrofoils are then theoretically evaluated using software. After this evaluation, the foils are 3D printed and tested in the developed test setup.

However, the tests reveal that the movements of the hydrofoils in the test setup do not fully match with the expected rolling motions in a realistic scenario. Thus the test setup needs to be revised in order to validate the theoretical findings, such as the stall angle and the shape of the foils as determined by the software.