Efficient propulsion for climate neutral cruise ship

Project supports the Meyer Turku goal of developing climate neutral cruise ship. The main goal is to significantly increase the propulsive efficiency with gain of 10 % when compared to best currently available option. This will significantly cut the emissions of the ship, as propulsion comprises well over 50 % of the ship energy consumption. Project develops a concept of contra rotating propellers (CRP) integrated in to a large cruise ship. In addition, the use of sails to increase the overall efficiency is studied.

The expected efficiency gains are mainly due to hydrodynamic development, but in order to be acceptable choice fora cruise ship the vibration and noise generated by the propulsion system have to be low. A reliable way to show that vibration and noise are not a problem, is one key focus area in the project. Methods and models for this are developed.

Public research project will focus on developing new tools, models and methods for hydrodynamic and structural modelling. With the help of these, the performance and soundness of different concepts can be evaluated more accurately during the design phase of products.

Increase in propulsive efficiency, and the subsequent cutting of emissions, support the goals set by IMO and EU for reducing emissions from shipping. Another aspect for increased propulsive efficiency, is that it can help to increase the use of batteries etc. as less stored energy is needed.