NOTES ON THRUSTERS FOR SHIP MANEUVERING AND DYNAMIC POSITIONING

The paper begins with the historical development of thrusters as maneuvering aids. A review of current thruster types and their applications is included. A system of nomenclature is presented in the hope that some degree of standardization can be achieved. Various aspects of mechanical design are discussed, including gears, bearings and seals. Hydrodynamic considerations based on model testing are explored, and a merit coefficient based on the work of Bendemann is proposed for use. Additional full-scale data on the effectiveness of thrusters, the influence of vessel speed on turning moment, and resistance effect are given, and directions for further investigation are suggested. Sources of vibration and noise, both mechanical and hydrodynamic, are examined, and implications of these in various types of service, such as passenger vessels and dynamically positioned drill ships, are explored. Solutions to these problems, such as resilient mountings and blade shape, are presented and discussed. Thruster control sytems are addressed, both conventional maneuvering systems and integration into sophisticated position-keeping systems. The paper concludes with a discussion of ship operators' requirements for thruster installations.

Corporate Authors:
Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers

601 Pavonia Avenue
Jersey City, NJ United States 07306-2907
Authors:
- Norrby, R A
- Ridley, D E
Publication Date: 1980

Media Info

Pagination: 20 p.

Subject/Index Terms

TRT Terms: Control systems; Controllable pitch propellers; Dynamic positioning; Fluid resistance; Hulls; Maneuvering; Propellers; Thrust; Thrusters
Uncontrolled Terms: Hull resistance
Old TRIS Terms: Fixed pitch propellers; Model testing; Propeller thrust; Thruster performance
Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

Accession Number: 00323479
Record Type: Publication
Report/Paper Numbers: No. 13
Files: TRIS
Created Date: Feb 18 1981 12:00AM