Analysis of the wake dynamics of a propeller operating before a rudder

This paper analyzes the characteristics of the wake dynamics of a propeller operating before a rudder under open water conditions. The analysis is conducted using a numerical method based on the detached eddy simulation (DES). In particular, the evolution mechanism of the propeller wake is explored under different advance coefficient and rudder angle conditions. Under heavy load conditions, the topology of the vortex system becomes more complex and is accompanied by a stronger interaction between the wake and the rudder. In addition, a secondary vortical structure bridging the tip vortices is formed in the vicinity of the tip vortex, followed by the growth of a secondary vortex and the formation of a secondary vortex pair. At nonzero rudder angles, the interaction between the tip vortex and the rudder becomes stronger, yielding a more complex vortex topology. Furthermore, an intertwined vortical structure is formed on the suction side and the a-shaped vortical structures form much earlier. Analysis of the kinetic energy (KE) and pressure spectra on the rudder surface provides additional insights into the evolution pattern of the vortical structures. The objective of this study is to further identify the dynamic characteristics of the propeller vortices before the rudder under multiple operating conditions.