Numerical Simulation of an Air-Bubble System for Ice Resistance Reduction

Ships sailing through cold regions frequently encounter floe ice fields. An air-bubble system that reduces friction between the hull and floes is thus considered useful for reduction of ice-induced resistance. In this study, a numerical analysis procedure based on coupled finite volume method (FVM) discrete element (DEM) proposed to simulate complicated hull-water-gas-ice interactions ice-going ships installed with systems. The simulations reveal after turning in contact side wall are pushed away from by gas-water mixture, resulting an ice-free zone close hull. It found drag rate increases increase ventilation, while bow ventilation plays deciding role overall ice-resistance reduction. expected facilitate design new generations ships.