Supply, Delivery and Commissioning of a Specialised Propeller-Rudder System Hydrodynamic Testing Rig

The University of Strathclyde is seeking notes of interest for a potential tender opportunity for the detailed design, supply, delivery and commissioning of a specialised and flexible testing rig for measuring the hydrodynamic forces and moments on the propeller using an accurate propeller dynamometer and twin rudders, which can be actuated, using load balances. The specialised rig will interface with the existing towing tank model carriage of the Strathclyde University’s Kelvin Hydrodynamics Laboratory. The test rig will include an open-water type propeller dynamometer to measure the propeller thrust, torque and shaft speed to be driven by an electric motor. The test rig will also include a twin rudder arrangement (e.g. to simulate a Gate Rudder System), that may also be actuated by electric motors, and the hydrodynamic loads (X, Y, Mz) on each rudder will be measured by suitable load balance system. The propeller dynamometer, rudders and their drive/actuator systems will be mounted on a base platform which will then be secured to the towing carriage. The system will be able to measure the propeller and rudder hydrodynamic loads on the propeller and rudders in calm water as well as in waves.