Reduction of the development of bilge vortices by discharge of air into the boundary layer

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kostilainen, V.

Affiliations: Helsinki University of Technology, Ship Hydrodynamics Laboratory, Helsinki, Finland

Abstract: The development of bilge vortices can be reduced by discharging small amounts of air into the boundary layer. Air bubbles turn the downward cross flow, thus reducing streamline convergence and vortex sheet separation near the bilge. The results of model experiments with a full ship form are presented. It is concluded that the system improves the wake distribution and it may be a useful precaution against propeller excited vibrations of full ship forms.

DOI: 10.3233/ISP-1980-2730501

Journal: International Shipbuilding Progress, vol. 27, no. 305, pp. 2-9, 1980