Numerical hull resistance calculation of a catamarán using OpenFOAM

Abstract

In the present study, numerical resistance predictions using OpenFOAM were performed considering the Cormorant Evolution Catamaran, which provides travel services in the Galapagos Islands. These predictions were compared with experimental data published by Chávez and Lucín [1] and with systematic series [2].Simulations were made at model scale of 2 [m] in two load conditions, considering demi and twin hull (s=0.56 [m]) configurations. A mesh convergence study was performed with 3 different meshes for V=1.05 [m/s] at Light Condition (T=0.086 [m]). The converged mesh, with 1 million of cells approximately, has the lower standard deviation and a 5% error when compared to its experimental value of 1.79 [N]. The errors between the experimental data and the numerical simulations for demi hull configuration were 43% and 36% for Light and Full conditions, respectively. Besides, for twin hull configuration the errors were around 14% and 32% for Light and Full conditions, respectively.