We analyzed the performance of hubless rim propellers based on the number of blades, maintaining a fixed pitch ratio and expanded area ratio, using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Thrust coefficient, torque coefficient and efficiency according to the number of blades were analyzed. In addition, the pressure distribution on the discharge and suction sides of the blade was analyzed. As the advance ratio increases, the thrust coefficient decreases. The highest thrust was shown when the advance ratio was lowest. For the three, four, five and six-blades, the torque coefficient tended to decrease as the advance ratio increased. In the case of seven and eight-blades, the torque coefficient tended to increase as the advance ratio increased. The maximum efficiency was found when the advance ratio was 0.8. When the three-blade, it showed high efficiency at all advance ratios. A high pressure distribution was observed at the leading edge of the discharge blade, and a low pressure distribution was observed at the trailing edge. Applying a hubless rim-driven thruster with the three-blade can generate higher thrust and increase work efficiency.

In this study, a new designed propeller was applied on 24 ton class squid jigging vessel to reduce of fuel consumption. The selected squid jigging boat was under construction at the shipyard to determine the resistance of the hull through the model experiment. The propeller design was carried out by using the experimental data and ITTC procedures. Sea trials were performed by measuring the speed and the horsepower required by the condition of five power levels of engine load, namely 70%, 80%, 90%, MCR and maximum engine power. The speed and delivered horse power were compared between the conventional propeller and the new design propeller. Delivered horse power by installing the new propeller takes 90% engine load at start-up conducted by decreased 9.06%. The measuring speed is increased up to the 0.6 knots in the low-speed range to high range. This study showed that only the design and installation of a new propeller can improve the propulsion efficiency of the boats; furthermore, reduce fuel costs can be achieved at the same time by improving the increased cruising speed.