The Prospects for Lightweight Ship Propulsion Systems

A comprehensive systems study was made to evaluate the technological and economic feasibility of utilizing open- and closed-cycle gas turbines for providing advanced lightweight propulsion power for future Navy ship applications. Extensive parametric analyses were made of the performance and weight characteristics for the propulsion engine cycles selected, and applicable turbomachinery technologies were reviewed to estimate their future advances expected. The payload capabilities and endurance limitations resulting from utilization of different propulsion systems in the 40,000 -to 300,000-shp range for selected ship types were identified.