Selection of Propulsion Systems for High-Speed Advanced Marine Vehicles

Methods and criteria for evaluating and selecting propulsion systems for high-speed marine vehicles such as surface effect ships, hovercraft, hydrofoils, and planing craft are summarized. The problem of matching ship performance (drag, thrust, endurance, etc.) and geometric requirements to propulsion system characteristics to select the best propulsion system for a given application is discussed in some detail. Water-jet, marine propeller and air propulsion systems, including propulsor, propulsor mounting appendages, transmission and engines, are considered. An example utilizing a 4000-ton surface effect ship illustrates that the numerous tradeoffs involved in the selection process may lead to a propulsion system selection based on parameters other than propulsive efficiency. A second example for a 750-ton hydrofoil craft is referenced.