DEPARTMENT OF MARINE ENGINEERING

The propeller shaft is a critical component in marine propulsion systems, transmitting power from the engine to the propellers. In twin-screw passenger ferries, failure of the propeller shaft can lead to severe operational disruptions, safety hazards, and costly repairs. This study presents a comprehensive failure analysis of a propeller shaft from a twin-screw passenger ferry to determine the root cause of failure and suggest mitigation strategies. The investigation includes visual inspection, non- destructive testing (NDT), metallurgical analysis, and finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate material properties, fatigue characteristics, and stress distribution. The findings indicate that fatigue failure, corrosion-assisted cracking, misalignment, and improper lubrication are potential contributing factors. Based on the results, recommendations for improved maintenance, material selection, and design modifications are proposed to enhance the reliability and longevity of propeller shafts in marine vessels. This study provides valuable insights into preventing similar failures in future maritime applications.

This project proposes the design and implementation of an alternative auxiliary solar power generation system specifically for critical accommodation and navigation bridge devices on a tugboat. The system aims to provide a reliable backup power source to these essential systems in the event of main power failure or other emergencies, ensuring the tugboat's continued safe operation. Focusing on these critical loads, the system will comprise photovoltaic panels, a charge controller, a battery bank sized for the specific demands of the targeted devices, and an inverter. The abstract will detail the project's objectives, including the specific accommodation and navigation equipment to be supported, such as lighting, communication
systems, and essential bridge instrumentation. Crucially, it will outline the methodology employed for system sizing, including calculations of the power consumption of these devices, the required battery capacity to provide sufficient backup time, and the optimal solar panel array size to ensure adequate charging. The expected outcomes, such as enhanced safety and operational resilience, will be discussed, along with the potential benefits of this targeted approach, including reduced fuel consumption and emissions compared to a full-vessel backup system.

This project proposes a sustainable solution for sea water desalination through the utilization of water and air intercooling systems. The method aims to address fresh water scarcity on a ship by harnessing distillation method in evaporating sea water. The evaporated water is condensed and collected as fresh water leaving behind salts and impurities. The design incorporates efficient heat transfer mechanisms and innovative materials to enhance the distillation process while minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact

This report presents a comprehensive design and SolidWorks-based modeling of a conceptual container vessel equipped with an integrated robotic cargo-handling crane. The project combines core naval architecture principles with advanced parametric modeling techniques to develop a structurally coherent, hydrodynamically efficient, and operationally automated vessel concept. The aim of the study is to demonstrate how modern CAD tools can be applied to marine engineering design while integrating automation systems that enhance vessel functionality and operational efficiency.
The modeling process covers the systematic construction of the hull, deck arrangement, superstructure, bulwarks, and the robotic crane system using sketches, extrusions, lofts, reference planes, and surface features. Material properties such as mild steel, aluminum alloy, and anti-fouling coatings were applied to approximate real marine construction and enhance visualization accuracy. Design considerations including hydrodynamic efficiency, vessel stability, structural integrity, and safety guided all modeling decisions, particularly the
placement and structural support of the onboard robotic crane.The inclusion of the robotic crane demonstrates the potential for automated cargo operations, reduced human involvement, and improved port efficiency. Rendering and surface finishing techniques further enhance presentation quality, making the model suitable for academic, industrial, and concept-evaluation purposes. Overall, the project showcases the practical application of CAD tools in modern marine engineering and highlights the relevance of integrating advanced automation technologies in contemporary vessel design.

This paper presents the design and simulation of a 4 -bladed controllable-pitch marine propeller for relatively small to mediumsized vessels that enhances both maneuverability and efficiency in diverse maritime operational conditions, using the design basis of a small coastal twin screw passenger ferry. The design process utilized the wageningen B-series standard design chart (B4-70), using the optimum design line to carry out design analysis of the propeller, with detailed mathematical analysis/calculations to derive the propeller geometric parameters, followed by the development and modification of a 3D propeller
model using SolidWorks. The hydrodynamic performance and behavior of the CPP were analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations across varying propeller pitch angles, enabling the determination of thrust and torque under different operational conditions. The results from parametric studies and optimization indicate that a decrease in the propeller blade tip pitch angle leads to improved efficiency, enhancing propulsion and fuel economy. The simulations also revealed that the maximum ahead thrust was achieved at a pitch angle of -30° from the design pitch, the maximum astern thrust at 60° from the design pitch, and approximately zero thrust at 20° from the design pitch.

The project is focused on designing and simulating a controllable-pitch marine propeller,for small to medium sized vessel such as fishing trawlers, passenger ferries, tugs and yacht, recognizing the pivotal role such technology plays in optimizing vessel performance. By addressing limitations in conventional fixed-pitch propellers, the project has been able to contribute to the evolution of marine propulsion systems, pushing the boundaries of efficiency and adaptability.

The project methodology involved a comprehensive literature review on marine propulsion and propeller design principles, followed by the formulation of a mathematical analysis for the controllable-pitch propeller design. SolidWorks 3D modeling software is utilized to create a detailed propeller design, which is then subjected to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze hydrodynamic performance.

An iterative optimization process refines the design based on simulation outcomes, aiming for enhanced efficiency and performance. Through parametric studies and optimization, the project successfully demonstrates the efficiency gains achievable by adjusting the blade tip pitch angle. The controllable-pitch propeller's ability to adapt to varying operational conditions is highlighted, showcasing its potential for improved fuel efficiency and maneuverability. The project contributes to the ongoing advancements in marine propulsion technology, offering insights into the design and simulation of controllable-pitch propellers for small to medium-sized vessels.