Numerical Simulation Analysis of Waterjet Propulsion for Underwater Vehicle

Waterjet propulsion system based on solid fuel turbine or high-speed axial-flow pump is widely used in underwater vehicle. In this paper, force equilibrium characteristic of waterjet propulsion is analyzed theoretically, and the theoretical exit speed of inner port is deduced when axial-flow pump is working at maximum efficiency. With CFD simulation analysis, waterjet propulsion underwater vehicle would reach the status of force equilibrium when underwater vehicle's speed is equal to exit speed of inner port. The head of axial-flow pump at the conditions of flowing water and static water is also researched, which provides reference for the testing of waterjet propulsion underwater vehicle. The research result indicates that waterjet propulsion system can achieve the characteristic goal of high-speed and large-depth.