Validation of CFD Predictions of the Hull Resistance and the Wave System of a Catamaran

Abstract

In response to the need for better designs in less time and at low costs, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is becoming an integral part of the vessel’s design process. Recent studies have shown that CFD techniques can be used with relative success for the problem of ship resistance prediction. This paper reports on the simulation of the flow around a typical catamaran hull by means of CFD computations. The numerical model used in the simulations was developed in full scale with the experimental model in order to eliminate any source of scale effects. The paper presents a discussion on grid configuration and an analysis of the performance of the numerical model in describing the characteristics of the in-between hulls flow. The results obtained were validated against experimental data.

A Numerical Study on the Resistance Prediction of a Medium Speed Craft

“…For a given mathematical model and a specified numerical approach, numerical errors are mainly determined by grid generation [1]. Obviously, adequate attention needs to be paid to this part.…”

“…After years of studying by all the researchers, numerous of achievement in RANS-based ship resistance simulation field has been reached. Alexandre T. P. Alho et al [1] and Omar Yaakob et al [2] tried to get the resistance by adopting a fixed ship model using the VOF method to calculate the free surface effect. H.C. Raven et al [3] and Yi Wen-Bin et al [4] provided CFD based-ways to predict the ship resistance in full scale.…”