PROPULSE

About PROPULSE

PROPULSE is a conceptual design tool for predicting ship resistance and propulsive power during the early design stages. It implements three well-established regression methods to estimate the total resistance of a displacement vessel based on its hull geometry, propeller configuration, and operating conditions.

The tool calculates the frictional resistance (ITTC 1957/2011 correlation line), the wave-making resistance (Holtrop & Mennen regression), and the viscous pressure resistance (form factor). It also estimates appendage resistance from the geometry of bulbous bows, transoms, skegs, shaft struts, and stabilizer fins, as well as air resistance from windage data. Finally, it computes the hull efficiency, propeller open-water efficiency, and delivered power required to overcome the total resistance at a given speed.

By entering the main hull parameters, propeller details, and appendage geometry, the user can perform a single-speed prediction or a speed sweep to generate resistance and power curves. Results include the total resistance (kN), effective power (kW), delivered power (kW), shaft horsepower (SHP), and the efficiency breakdown.

The three prediction methods available are: Holtrop & Mennen (1982) — the classic approximate power prediction method; Holtrop (2001) — a revised version with updated coefficients; and ITTC 1978 — the ITTC Recommended Procedure based on the standard series. The tool is intended for naval architects, marine engineers, and students performing preliminary design or comparative analysis of displacement vessels.

Note: All resistance predictions are approximate and intended for conceptual design only. Model testing and CFD validation are recommended for final design.